It’s January, a time when many people resolve to improve their physical health by eating better, getting more sleep, or exercising more often. Perhaps you have made a similar New Year’s resolution after you indulged in Christmas cookies and fudge!
I have been a nurse for over 40 years (yikes!), and I’ve cared for people all across the span of life to promote their health and prevent chronic illness. I am passionate about health and wellness, but I don’t always practice what I preach. I am realistic about the difficulties we face in trying to achieve a healthy lifestyle.
Often overloaded leaders sacrifice self-care during busy and demanding seasons of ministry. We may eat high-calorie foods when we are bored, emotionally drained, traveling or just because it tastes really good. (I confess: I’m a chocoholic that craves sweets when I feel stressed.) We check email late at night and then can’t wind down to sleep; or we crowd our schedules with commitments and then don’t have space to get the exercise and rest that we need.
Now that we’re at the beginning of a new semester, will you commit to thinking of your body in a new way? The Bible reminds us that our bodies belong to God, and we bring honor to God when we care for them.
In 1 Corinthinans 6:19-20 Paul writes, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
In the Scriptures, the word “shalom” means “wholeness” or “health.” It is used to describe harmony in all relationships: with God, with others, with self, and with the environment. This holistic view of biblical shalom reflects God’s desire that we live at peace with everything around us, including pursuing health for ourselves.
Here are some tips to help you get started on a new journey to health in the year ahead:
- Give yourself permission to take care of your physical body. Set priorities. Practice Sabbath rest. Don’t worship the idol of your “to-do” list.
- What are your excuses for ignoring your physical health? Confess them. You’re not invincible. Take care of what you have. You can’t change your DNA, but there is plenty you can do to influence your physical well-being. Your effectiveness as a spiritual leader in God’s kingdom depends on how well you take care of your body, mind and spirit over the long haul.
- Share your needs, commitments and goals with another person. Find an accountability partner in your community who cares about your health and well-being. Discipline takes effort. Invite others to encourage you in the changes you want to make.
- Pay attention to the condition of your heart. A nurse friend often says, “What is in the well comes up in the bucket.” Keep your spiritual well full of living water (John 4).
Finally, give thanks to God for the gift of life, for you are fearfully and wonderfully made. Shalom!
