Usually when we talk about health, we mean exercise and healthy eating. In reality, health involves much more. Total health is about being a good steward of your life. It includes your physical, mental, spiritual and financial well-being.
Total health requires balanced attention to every part of your life. Focusing too much on one area — like losing weight — can create deficiencies in other areas — like your spiritual walk — which makes it less likely you’ll be able to achieve your goals.
Get physical
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own” (1 Corinthians 6:9).
As Christians, we understand that we’ve been made for a purpose. How much more will we be able to fulfill that purpose if we’re healthy and strong? Regular exercise, along with a healthy diet and weight management, can keep us in peak health so we can do the work we’ve been called to do.
Maximize your mental
“You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you” (Isaiah 26:3).
Mental health is related to physical health in that your brain is an organ that needs oxygen and nutrients. Through good nutrition and exercise, you may be able to keep strokes and Alzheimer’s disease at bay. But for optimum health, include a mental workout every day. Do crossword puzzles or Sudoku. Learn to play an instrument or write poetry. Creative thinking keeps your memory sharp and your thinking clear.
Focus on the financial
“…he who gathers money little by little makes it grow” (Proverbs 13:11).
God always provides, but He expects us to be good stewards of what we have. After your tithe, prioritize your personal savings for short-term needs and retirement. Over time, small savings add up, so look for ways to cut spending without drastically changing your lifestyle. And always live on less than you earn.
Set the pace with your spiritual
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord” (Romans 12:11).
Tithing doesn’t only apply to our income. As Christians, we are called to devote time and energy to the Lord as well. Daily prayer and Bible study, scripture memorization and regular worship attendance can help keep your spiritual walk vibrant. Seek ways to grow in your faith. Consider volunteering at your local crisis center, going on a mission trip or taking a discipleship class at church.
Will you accept the challenge to live a balanced, healthy lifestyle that includes your physical, mental, financial and spiritual health? The body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, and we must be good stewards of the gifts of God.