And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. – Mark 12:30
Recent studies have shown that people who practice their faith regularly may be getting some health benefits: A study conducted by sociologists at Purdue University found that 4% of those who regularly attended religious services reported poor health, compared with 9% of those who did not attend a house of worship. And 36% of weekly worshippers reported they were in excellent health, compared with 26% of non-attenders.
So what makes the difference? Researchers aren’t sure, but they say the reason could be that people attending weekly services may be more likely to see friends who ask about their health and can recommend a doctor. But while that may be true, there’s most definitely something to be said for the healing benefits of connecting with God on a regular basis.
As a Christian, it’s very important to care for your physical body. In fact, the Bible is clear that your body is God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19). But one key aspect of that temple that much of modern medicine doesn’t take into account is that it’s not just physical, it’s spiritual as well.
You’re not just flesh and bone; you’re also very much soul and spirit. So when it comes to your health, focus on the physical, but don’t neglect your spiritual health as well. When your body and your soul are nourished appropriately, you can experience overall health beyond what medicine can do alone!
Prayer Challenge
Ask God to draw you into a deeper intimacy with Him. Pray He would reveal Himself to you more and more every day.
Questions for Thought
How are you encouraged by the truth that you’re more than just flesh and bone… that you have a soul and spirit?
What are some changes you can make in your life today to nourish both your body and your soul?