Several Bible verses talk about our wellness in the Bible. These passages emphasize the importance of taking our health seriously. While many of us are familiar with 1 Corinthians 6:19, which says our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, other passages speak to the need to care for ourselves. Thankfully, God gives us the blueprint on how best to treat our bodies which requires proper maintenance. While the Bible doesn’t give us medical guidance directly, there are many principles we can apply to our physical, mental and spiritual well-being that all Christians should pay attention to. Here are five Bible verses on wellness every Christian should know.
Proverbs 3:1-2
The Bible tells us that the critical mental and physical health passages in the Bible are referenced in the Proverbs. Proverbs 2:1-2 says, “My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.” Verse 8 continues, “This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.” The Bible tells us directly that following God’s laws and commandments will lead to proper health. Another reminder of this is Ecclesiastes 12:13, “Now all has been heard, here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” If we want to be healthy, it’s imperative that we follow God’s instructions. We are blessed to have a Father in Heaven that cares for us enough.
Exodus 15:26
This verse speaks more directly about health. These references were as early as the time of Moses. Exodus 15:26 says, “He said, ‘If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.’” There were many ancient Egyptians who suffered from many diseases as they were unable to comprehend many of the health principles given by God. Just as it was important that they understood those principles, it’s essential that we also understand those principles. We know from scripture that one of the most significant reasons God cares about our health is because when we pay less attention to it, we can’t make the most out of our lives.
First Corinthians 10:13
In 1 Corinthians 10:13, the Bible says, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” When we think about the health of our loved ones, we want to make sure they are as healthy as they should be. The same should apply to our own health. It’s critical that we set this example. The only way this is possible is by taking our health seriously.
Ephesians 2:10
Our health means so much to God that He says that our bodies are His temple. We are also commanded not to put things in our bodies that will cause us physical harm. God tells us this because we are so precious to Him. We will all face temptation when it comes to what we consume. Yet, our bodies will feel better when we are putting the right things in them. God tells us to honor our temples if we want to enter His. God tells us in Ephesians 2:10 that we should make our physical health a priority so that it glorifies Him. The Bible says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10). We must glorify God in every way. This includes how we live out our lives. If our health isn’t our top priority, we are limiting ourselves significantly. When we choose the proper exercise and diet plans for our bodies, it is one of the best gifts we can give to God.
Third John 1:2
Scripture teaches that those who allow God to guide their lives generally live healthier lives. Now, don’t think this means that those who don’t follow God are more prone to sickness. Also, don’t take this to indicate if you follow God, you will be disease-free. Third John 1:2 says, “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul.” God always has our physical, mental and spiritual well-being in mind.
God promises us many blessings. Many of the commandments given to us about our physical health and well-being are there for our own spiritual good. It’s vital that we are conscious of the enemy who is always attempting to sabotage our daily walk with Christ. He wants to break us down completely so we are not living an amplified life. If there is ever a time where you are tempted to put the wrong things in your body, know that God wants more for your life.
There is a reason they call God the Great Physician. Through Jesus, we see so many accounts of God’s healing. One of the reasons Jesus came into the world was to heal. He not only restores our bodies but heals our wounds. If you are facing a tough challenge when it comes to your wellness, that God has the power to restore you.
All of us should take our health seriously if we want to live a life that glorifies God. If we don’t take our wellness seriously, we will break down. If that happens, we can’t live for the people that matter to us most. Think about the things that are harmful to your body that could be taking years off your life. Consider reducing or removing these things from your life so you can focus on living your best life.
