Temple Care Matters!

Scripture: Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

A dear sisterfriend of mine and her husband had been trying to have a baby since they got married almost 7 years ago. Unfortunately, each conception resulted in a miscarriage or a necessary, medically – induced end to the pregnancy. The doctors were baffled and couldn’t figure out what kept going wrong. After many tears of sorrow, moments of disappointment and unanswered questions, our awesome God allowed her to conceive, carry and birth their miracle baby – HALLELUJAH!

A few weeks ago, I asked her what the doctors did differently this time. I wondered if there were any special procedures they used? Did she have to take any medications or shots?? Did her doctor find out what was causing all the previous pregnancies to not go full term? How did things work to keep everything intact and healthy?  Her response sent me into an immediate praise frenzy! She said (and I quote), “She (her doctor) basically told me to get on a prenatal vitamin, eat all healthy foods and drink only water … but all I can say is it was God because I didn’t think it would ever happen!” Who would have thought that simply changing the way she ate and took care of her body would result in bringing forth a precious baby boy full of hope? Although she had to be closely monitored during her entire pregnancy, the baby arrived healthy and happy! Each time I see a picture of my “nephew”, I marvel at the awesomeness of God and thank Him for blessing their family with such an amazing, perfect gift!

After our conversation, I started thinking about the way I treat my body, God’s temple. I immediately had to repent – not eating right, not consistently exercising, not getting the proper amount of sleep/rest, not practicing what God’s Word says … the list goes on and on. I know I’m not alone in this *hint hint* God is very serious about how we treat these bodies He gave us. He expects us to take care of them and has provided everything we need to do so. Most of the time, it is our own laziness that prevents us from being the vibrant, able – bodied vessels God can use. I mean, that’s why He created us! He doesn’t need us but chooses to use us – WOW! So let’s do what we can to make sure we are fit for the fight – putting on the full armor of God and trusting Him in the process!

Prayer: Father, how AWESOME You are in every way! You made these bodies that You entrusted to us. You took the time to work out all the details of how our bodies function. Forgive us for not appreciating Your marvelous handiwork! Forgive us for not taking care of Your vessels as we should. We have damaged them by feeding them things we know are not good for us and made ourselves unfit for the journey You have called us to. Likewise, we have fed our spirits with things that contradict everything You represent! Father, help us to do better! Help us realize that each one of us is responsible for how we treat our bodies and what we feed our spirits. Help us to be thankful for the temples You placed us in. No matter what condition we are in, we can all do our part to make our bodies, Your temples, a place You want to dwell in … a place that is fit to worship You in spirit and in truth! In Jesus’ Name we always pray … AMEN!

(by Cassaundra T)