“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
– 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Paul’s admonition to honor God with our bodies includes every believer, men, women, young people and children. This week, we will focus on the men.
Today’s society puts a lot of emphasis on one’s body image and some develop an unrealistic view of how their body may be seen by others. Thus, they become preoccupied about having that perfect body. Even some social media sites have helped to develop this obsession with the body.(1)
God reminds us our body is a temple of the Holy Spirit and not our own, Jesus bought us with a price. Take a minute and reflect on that. Jesus bought us with a huge price – His own death on the Cross of Calvary! Thus, looking at 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 in a fresh new way, helps us commit ourselves to glorifying God in everything in our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. This New Year, let’s spend time ensuring our bodies are in good physical health.
This week, www.health.gov offers these guidelines for men to encourage them to pay more attention to their health. Compared to women, men are likely to:
• Smoke
• Drink too much alcohol
• Make unhealthy or risky choices
• Put off regular checkups and medical care
There are several ways men can take charge of their health according to the article. First and most important, see a doctor for regular checkups even if you feel healthy. The website www.health.gov indicates this is important because some diseases and health conditions don’t have symptoms at first. Also, when you see a doctor you are given a chance to learn more about your health. Here are some things men can do to take care of their health and their temple of God:
• Eat healthy and get active.
• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
• Quit smoking.
• Know your own family’s history.
• Get screening tests to check for health problems before you have symptoms.
• Make sure you are up to date on your vaccines.(2)
Source:
1 If you have a tween or teen that you believe may be experiencing a negative body image, the Mayo Clinic has published an online article entitled: “Healthy Body Image: Tips for Guiding Teens” at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/tween-and-teen-health/in-depth/healthy-body-image/art-20044668. Check out the article. The Mayo Clinic indicate if your child is struggling with a negative body image, consider teaming up with your teen’s doctor or mental health professional who will have additional support that might give your child the tools needed to counter social pressure and feel good about his or her body.
2 U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevent and Health Promotion: Men Take Charge of Your Health, at www.health.gov.
Next Week: Conclusion
General Disclaimer: The writer has used her best efforts in preparation of this information. No representations or warranties for its contents, either expressed or implied, are offered. Neither the publisher nor the writer shall be liable in any way for readers’ efforts to apply, rely or utilize the information or recommendations presented herein as they may not be suitable for you or necessarily appropriate for every situation to which they may refer. This information is for educational purposes. In some instances, this article contains the opinions, conclusions and/or recommendations of the writer. If you would like to contact Rev. Lester, write to her c/o P.O. Box 121, Brookfield, WI. 53008.