The new year is here and everyone’s talking about reasons to choose healthy habits, so…
Here’s what I’ve learned about how taking care of myself physically impacts my ability to stand firm when the enemy attacks (Ephesians 6:10-18).
My self-control is weakened when I don’t get proper amounts of exercise, nourishment, and rest. Look at what the Bible says about the importance of self-control.
“A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.” Proverbs 25:28 (NLT)
Studies show exercise releases hormones that help with stress. I try to swim three days a week to control my glucose. I feel better when I exercise, and I definitely sleep better. Unfortunately, I find it is far too easy to let other people and things interrupt my swim time. Feel free to occasionally ask if I’m still swimming; it’ll keep me diligent if I think you’re going to ask.
Food is the body’s fuel. I truly believe God wants us to enjoy the foods we eat (why else would He give us taste buds), but I’ve learned not all foods are beneficial. I must eat the right foods, in the right amounts, if I want my body to function as God intended.
Lack of sleep leaves me irritable, easily frustrated, and stressed over things that don’t usually bother me. I finally set an alarm on my phone, so I will go to bed on time.
Sleep is only one part of rest. Rest also means including margin in my life. This is not an easy thing for me, and presses me to practice better time management.
Rest refreshes me physically, emotionally, and mentally. Better self-care helps me practice self-control.
Taking care of myself makes it easier for me to accomplish the things God created me to do (Ephesians 2:10), while not falling prey to my enemy (1st Peter 5:8).
How about you? Have you ever found yourself more vulnerable to the enemy’s schemes after neglecting your physical health? What are some of the practical ways you take care of your physical health?
Check out some of the benefits of rest here: https://www.eomega.org/article/4-surprising-benefits-of-rest
Check out some of the benefits of exercise here: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-benefits-of-exercise
Check out some of the benefits of eating healthy foods here: https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/5-benefits-proper-nutrition-3664.html