1 Corinthians 6:19-20

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God, and that you are not your own? 20 For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body.

Studies reveal that every January, gym memberships increase significantly due to New Year’s resolutions. Advertisements for gym equipment, diet supplements, and work out clothing overwhelm us at every turn. According to ATH Nutrition, 45 million Americans put themselves on diets every year and spend billions of dollars. Even with all this spending, 4 of 10 Americans have obesity issues.

Paul instructs us in Corinthians to view our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit and to honor God with our bodies. But our world deceives us into thinking that we need to exercise and eat less so we can “look” a certain way. Our motivation is all about our outer appearance and the endless chase to meet that magic number on the scale. For me, this scripture is a game changer because it shifts my motivation for staying healthy from myself to Christ.

This year, my focus is shifting from looking at the outside of my body to my inside. To the Holy Spirit who resides in me and to create a healthier home for my creator. Instead of exercising and eating healthier for vanity reasons, my cause will be Christ - to create a stronger vessel for the Lord to use me to serve him and complete His will for my life.

Gracious God,

Help me to focus on your purpose for my body this year. To view it as your home and a vehicle to do your work in this world. Change my view of exercise to a holy endeavor to strengthen your temple. And alter my view of food to fuel for your work.

Amen.