We live in a culture that often treats the body like a workhorse — push harder, sleep less, grab whatever food will keep you going, and deal with the consequences later.
But Scripture paints a very different picture.
Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 6:19–20:
“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 honour God with your bodies.”
This isn’t just a poetic verse we recite when we feel guilty about another late night or skipped workout — it’s a gentle reminder that how we treat our bodies is an act of worship. Caring for your physical health is deeply connected to your spiritual calling.
Why Your Body Matters for Your Calling
Whether your calling is raising children, running a business, leading in ministry, or serving your community, your body is the vessel through which you live out that calling.
- If you’re exhausted all the time, it’s harder to show up with patience and joy.
- If your blood sugar is constantly crashing, it’s harder to focus in prayer or listen attentively in conversation.
- If you’re undernourished, it’s harder to serve with the energy and consistency your mission needs.
It’s not about achieving a “perfect” body or following the latest diet trend — it’s about creating a foundation of health so you can pour out from a full cup.
Nutrition as Worship
When we view food through the lens of worship, the question shifts from “What do I feel like eating?” to “What will help me be ready for what God has called me to today?”
That’s not about restriction — it’s about intentionality.
- Choosing foods that support stable energy (think protein, healthy fats, and fibre-rich vegetables).
- Drinking water before coffee so you start your day hydrated.
- Eating whole, unprocessed foods that supply the vitamins and minerals your cells actually need.
Every meal becomes an opportunity to steward the gift of your body. And just like stewardship with money, it’s not about perfection, but about wise, faithful choices over time.
Rest Is Not Laziness — It’s Obedience
One of the biggest challenges in both ministry and modern life is the belief that slowing down is wasting time. Yet God designed rhythms of rest into creation itself — even the land was given a Sabbath year (Leviticus 25:4).
Your body repairs, restores, and rebuilds while you rest. This is when your immune system strengthens, your hormones rebalance, and your nervous system settles. Without adequate rest, even the best nutrition plan will fall short.
Practical ways to restore:
- Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.
- Create an evening wind-down routine (dim lights, no screens, a calming tea).
- Build small pauses into your day to breathe and pray.
Movement That Fuels, Not Depletes
Exercise is not punishment for what you ate — it’s a gift to keep the temple strong and capable.
The key is choosing movement that energises rather than exhausts you:
- Gentle walks to pray and reflect.
- Strength training to protect muscles and bones.
- Stretching or mobility exercises to stay limber and reduce injury risk.
The goal isn’t to keep up with someone else’s routine, but to find what your body thrives on and make it a rhythm of life.
Guarding Your Temple from What Drains It
In the Old Testament, the temple was guarded from anything unclean or destructive. In the same way, we’re called to be mindful of what enters our bodies. This goes beyond food — it’s also about what we consume mentally and emotionally.
Ask yourself:
- Is this habit bringing me life or draining me?
- Does this relationship help me run my race or slow me down?
- Am I letting constant stress, busyness, or fear take up residence in my temple?
Sometimes the most nourishing choice isn’t a smoothie — it’s setting a healthy boundary.
The Ripple Effect of a Well-Tended Temple
When you’re well nourished, rested, and energised, you’re able to:
- Serve with joy instead of resentment.
- Think clearly and make wise decisions.
- Show up consistently in your calling without burning out.
And perhaps most importantly — you become a living example. Others see not just your faith but the fruit of it in your life, inspiring them to take care of their own temples too.
A Gentle Call Forward
You don’t have to overhaul everything overnight. Start with one small step this week:
- Add an extra glass of water.
- Include a serve of vegetables at each meal.
- Go to bed 30 minutes earlier.
- Take a walk and use it as prayer time.
As you care for your body, you’ll find it easier to hear God’s voice, respond to His nudges, and walk out the work He’s placed before you.
Your calling matters. Your body matters. And the two are beautifully connected.
This week, ask the Lord to show you one way you can honour Him in how you nourish, rest, and move. You might be surprised at how those small acts of care multiply into greater capacity, clarity, and joy.
At Lovimco Holistic Wellness, I help women build sustainable nutrition and lifestyle rhythms that support not just their health goals, but their God-given purpose. If you’re ready to tend your temple with intention, I’d love to walk with you.
📅 Book a session here →
