”I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”
Romans 12:1
Dieting is an interesting concept.
It’s no secret Americans are fighting an obesity crisis that’s been brewing for decades, and it’s only going to get worse for countless folks who lack discipline, or have very little faith.
Dieting is not a way of life. It’s a psycholigical band aid that’s likely to come off in the shower or bath, a quick fix to a much bigger problem.
While dieting may seem like a great idea, short term, it’s not sustainable and certainly not biblical.
So today, I was led to reflect on the words of the Apostle Paul in Romans 12:1: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” These words hold profound wisdom, guiding us not only in matters of the spirit but also in the care we extend to our earthly vessels – our bodies.
The Temple of the Holy Spirit:
The apostle’s call to present our bodies as living sacrifices is a recognition of the sanctity of our physical beings. Our bodies are not merely vessels but the very temple of the Holy Spirit. Our bodies are hosts to God’s Spirit, who lives within us. Therefore, the care we extend to our bodies becomes an act of worship, acknowledging God’s gift and honoring His dwelling within us.
Mindful Nourishment:
One aspect of caring for our bodies is through mindful nourishment. Our dietary choices impact not only our physical health but also our mental and spiritual well-being. A balanced diet, filled with wholesome, nourishing foods, reflects our commitment to presenting our bodies as living sacrifices – a pleasing offering to God.
Avoiding Gluttony and Idolatry:
While nourishing our bodies is essential, we must guard against the pitfalls of gluttony and dietary idolatry. The pursuit of pleasure through overindulgence can lead us away from the reverence due to our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. Instead of finding solace in food alone, let us seek spiritual nourishment, recognizing that our bodies find true satisfaction in God’s mercy and grace.
Moderation as a Virtue:
The principle of moderation is a virtue echoed throughout scripture. Proverbs 25:16 reminds us, “If you find honey, eat just enough – too much of it, and you will vomit.” Applying this wisdom to our dietary choices, we understand that balance and moderation reflect a heart attuned to God’s design for holistic well-being.
Honoring God in Our Choices:
Our dietary choices are not just about personal preference; they are an expression of our commitment to honoring God. When we choose foods that nourish our bodies, we align ourselves with God’s intention for our well-being. This act of self-care becomes an offering, a demonstration of gratitude for the life and health bestowed upon us.
Embracing a Lifestyle of Health:
The call to present our bodies as living sacrifices extends beyond individual meals. It invites us to embrace a lifestyle of health and well-being. Regular exercise, sufficient rest, and stress management are integral components of caring for the temple of the Holy Spirit. By cultivating healthy habits, we honor the divine dwelling within us.
Compassion for Others:
As we embark on a journey of mindful nourishment, let us extend compassion to others. In a world where access to nutritious food varies, our choices can impact those less fortunate. Let our commitment to health extend to advocacy for food justice, ensuring that all God’s children have the opportunity to nourish their bodies and honor the divine within.
Accountability and Support:
Embarking on a journey of mindful nourishment requires accountability and support. As a community of faith, let’s uplift and encourage one another in this endeavor. Whether it’s through shared recipes, group exercise, or mutual encouragement, our collective commitment to honoring our bodies strengthens the entire body of Christ.
I invite you to embrace the call of Romans 12:1 with a renewed understanding. As we present our bodies as living sacrifices, let our dietary choices reflect the reverence due to the temple of the Holy Spirit within us. May our pursuit of health and well-being be an act of worship, a living testament to the mercy and grace of our Creator.
Were you able to glean and grow from this message so God can be further glorified and His Kingdom magnified? If so, I would love to hear from you. Follow this link to get in touch… Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your presence in our lives,
We praise you Lord for the wisdom bestowed upon Paul,
And we ask you Lord to help us find joy in your perfect plan.
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through your Word, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by the truth as we spread the good news to one and all,
And lead the lost to You.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us,
To bless our lives and fill us with hope.
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and our place with you in Heaven
According to your ways, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done, here on Earth and through the vast Universe,
May our hearts be filled with your everlasting love and grace.
Praises to You God, Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
