I started 2025 with the goal to BE HEALTHY. So far, I’ve lost 20 pounds and done a lot of work to get healthier in body, mind, and spirit. If I’ve learned anything over the years of wanting to be healthy, I’ve learned that it takes intentionality and hard work to move towards health.
Let’s be honest, life gets busy. Between work, family, and everything in between, it’s easy to push our physical health to the back burner. We focus on our spiritual and emotional well-being, but what about our bodies? The truth is, God cares about our whole being: mind, soul, and body. And if He cares, we should too!
A Fresh Take on Repentance
When you hear the word repentance, what comes to mind? Fire-and-brimstone sermons? Guilt and shame? Here’s the good news: repentance isn’t about beating yourself up. It’s about a fresh start. In Matthew 3, John the Baptist calls people to repent, but not in a doom-and-gloom way. The word metanoia, which we translate as repent, actually means to change your mind, to shift directions.
Think about it: have you ever realized you were heading down a path that wasn’t great for you? Maybe it was a toxic habit, a negative mindset, or even neglecting your health. Repentance is like a U-turn, it’s about choosing something better. John was telling people, “Hey, God is doing something amazing—don’t miss out!”
Your Body is a Gift—Treat It Like One
Remember when you got that one gift you really wanted as a kid? You probably took great care of it. Well, guess what? Your body is a gift from God, fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). And like any precious gift, it’s meant to be cared for.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. That means they’re not just ours to do whatever we want with, they belong to God. So, how do we honor Him with our bodies? By making wise choices. Eating well, moving our bodies, getting enough rest—these aren’t just “health tips.” They’re ways to worship God and be good stewards of what He’s given us.
Mind, Body, and Spirit—It’s All Connected
Ever notice how when you’re feeling physically drained, everything else feels harder? Your patience wears thin, your motivation dips, even your spiritual life can feel sluggish. That’s because our physical health and spiritual well-being are deeply connected.
3 John 1:2 says, “I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit.” It’s a reminder that God cares about our whole being. When we take care of our bodies, we have more energy to serve, to love, and to live out our faith fully.
Time for a Change?
So, what’s holding you back? Are there habits that need a U-turn? Maybe it’s not moving your body enough or making food choices that leave you feeling sluggish. The good news? You don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. Start small. Choose one area to improve and invite God into the process.
God’s plan for us isn’t just about surviving, it’s about thriving. Let’s commit to making choices that reflect gratitude for the life He’s given us. When we honor our bodies, we’re not just improving our health, we’re glorifying Him in the process. Ready to take the first step?
ERIK LINDEEN 