Take Care of Yourself

As Christians, we recognize the authority of God in our lives. We devote ourselves to Jesus spiritually through prayer and fasting, emotionally through compassion and love for those around us, and physically through local church ministry, volunteering and more. Whether you serve in the local church, strive to build relationships to bring others to Christ, or spend daily time with God, you are committing yourself to Him and striving to glorify His name. 

However, in Christian circles, this desire to DO, can become overwhelming. We can become TOO focused on what we can DO for the kingdom, and neglect our spiritual, emotional, and physical health. This cycle can lead to a life of burnout and an identity found in action, rather than in Christ. 

While the Lord is greatly pleased with our actions and desire to serve him, God instructs us to physically take care of ourselves. In Leviticus, when Moses receives the 10 commandments, “Honor the Sabbath” is one of the 10 etched in stone by God’s own hand. God gave only 10 commandments to us, and one of them is to honor the day of rest. God didn’t do that for Himself, but out of deep love for us. Even the God of the universe recognizes our need for physical rest and care. What an incredible creator!

In 1st Corinthians chapter 3, Paul is instructing the Corinthian church to stay away from immorality and immaturity in Christ. In this, Paul asks them a simple question: “Did you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16). Paul continues to emphasize the importance of our identity as holy temples because God dwells within us. While this applies in every aspect, such as what we watch, who we spend time with, and the type of music we listen to, this definitely applies to how we take care of our physical health. If we are Holy in Christ, and He dwells within us, how can we take care of our bodies to glorify Him and be useful for the Kingdom?

Here at Azure Around the Table, one of our goals is to learn how to take care of our bodies physically, so that we can better serve and honor God. With health issues increasing because of unhealthy diets, we believe now, more than ever, is the time to regain control over our food, and establish healthy, lasting habits. In taking care of our physical bodies through healthy, abundant living, we are not only helping ourselves, but are serving God and honoring the bodies He has graciously given us.  A healthy diet can have a powerful domino effect on all aspects of our lives. As we encourage local communities to live healthy, abundant lives, we are also able to financially support local ministries. Some churches are able to make building repairs. Others are going out into their communities and serving healthy foods to those in need. As we faithfully take care of the bodies God has given us, God has blessed us abundantly. And has given us the opportunity to share that blessing. 

-Emma McCullar

Writer for Azure Standard