As a progressive Christian, I believe there are many names for God and many ways to a loving God; this article reflects one of those ways. Take from here what works for you. Celebrate life with joy and peace!
What do you think of when you hear the word “health”? What’s the first thing you think of? For many people, the words “health” or “exercise” are very positive things, but not for everybody.
Some people even think of excuses; can you imagine? Ha! Someone has said this, “Every time I think about exercise, I lie down until the thought goes away.” Or what about this one? “I’m not into working out. My philosophy: No pain, no pain.”
These comments are just some of the excuses people have for not making healthy lifestyle choices. Many people downplay the need for paying attention to their health. But the Bible has a lot of things to say about health.
Proverbs is considered the book of wisdom. The purpose of Proverbs is to give insights in order to help one learn to cope with life. The book is pragmatic in the overarching message that “wisdom brings success and folly leads to destruction.”
Proverbs 3:1-2 says, “My child, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.”
Good choices bring good results. So, what are the good results for good choices here? It says several things. It mentions “length of days” and “long life,” and then it mentions “peace,” which could mean a good mental state or a positive outlook. All of these are very important.
In 3 John 1:2 we read, “I pray that all is well with you and that your body is as healthy as I know your soul is!”
We are mind, body and spirit, aren’t we? And it’s important that we don’t neglect one over the other.
So, let’s talk about developing a healthy, active lifestyle. Ready?
1) Get regular check-ups from your doctor. Get tested! Don’t put off having the routine check-ups just because you may feel healthy now.
2) Set goals for activity. Any kind of activity. Set short term and long term goals. Having a long term goal – like running a marathon, riding 25 miles on your bike, hiking the Pacific Crest Trail – is great for us to strive to attain, but also, incorporate smaller goals so you can really gain a sense of accomplishment as you go.
3) Plan to change your routine incrementally. Don’t change everything in your routine all at once. That will cause burnout and maybe even injury. Make small adjustments here and there. Perhaps you substitute a healthy side for a less-healthy side at a meal three times a week. Or simply don’t take seconds at every meal.
4) Do something active daily. Each day is a new opportunity to become active. Take a walk around the block; march in place during commercials; cleaning the house and making your bed is a great way to be active. Be creative and be active!
5) Have an accountability partner. Look around. Ask around. There are others around you that have similar goals. Seek them out and become a team to accomplish your goals together.
6) Find a role model. There are so many sheroes and heroes around!
7) Then, offer your activity as an act of worship. Yes, worship comes in many forms! Allow what you are doing to be an act of worship. Give God glory and celebrate your life as you incorporate some new elements into your life. God will be celebrating with you as you complete your goals!
Proverbs says, “My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.”
Healthy people think healthy thoughts. I often go back to The Four Agreements. They’re so simple and practical, so then, why don’t we do them? (I’m talking to myself here!)
1. Be impeccable with your word
2. Don’t take anything personally
3. Don’t make assumptions
4. Always do your best. Realizing your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse and regret.
Go easy on yourself, and do your best. Start off slowly, and do your best.
I encourage you to refresh your habit of a healthy and active lifestyle, and think of it as an act of worship. God bless your many acts of worship!
Rev. Koeshall, I enjoyed reading this article. It will help many readers start and continue on a plan for a healthier future.