Today’s society is on a constant search for new information about their health, yet the information found can be confusing and contradictory, where people look for a more significant meaning or purpose in the hope of finding a connection with something higher or greater than themselves. What if all the answers to your health and wellbeing are not enclosed in the latest pieces of research information but in the Bible? This profound revelation is explained by Kimberly McCowan, Ph. D., in her book titled “The Bible Body Connection,” where the author shows how the Scripture provides the plan for healthy living. In this blog, I always focus on the biblical teachings on physical health, how to relate them to contemporary health measures, and the way we can apply them to our lives.

The Foundation of Health in Scripture

The Bible is not only an inspiring spiritual book, but it also offers knowledge and definite health advice. Whereas the Old Testament contains advice and guidelines on diet and another regimen, which Christian nutrition subscribes to, Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament offer a far-reaching knowledge of health that embraces the spiritual, mental, and physical well-being of the body. The creation of the grand design of health shall be known starting with the fact that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit as it is written in Corinthians 6:19-20

“Do you not know that your bodies are members of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whose you also are, and on whom you have received the Spirit? You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. Instead, become slaves of Christ. ”

For this scripture seeks to teach us the need to worship God with our bodies and to do so requires taking care of our bodies. More than that, it provides the basis to the kind of life that glorifies God by how one chooses to embark on a health plan.

Nutrition: A Biblical Perspective

In the Old Testament, for example, there are clear directions to identify the kinds of foods that are healthy for use, as found in the book of Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy Chapter 14. Leviticus 11 lists the clean and unclean foods in the bible, and this law is still used these days by many people for healthy living and longevity. They may have religious reasons at their base, but they also point to the practicalities of avoiding discomfort and diseases of the body.

For instance, the bible forbids the consumption of blood and prohibits the eating of any livestock’s whose divided hoof is cleft and whose hoof is not cloven, known to contain more parasites and toxins than foods like pork and shell fish. Foods that are reputed to be potentially toxic by traditional knowledge have been vindicated by modern science as being potentially fatal if not cooked or taken in moderation.

Apart from these dietary laws, one finds moderation and balance in the intake of food and drinks in the Bible.

Proverbs 25:16 says:

“The sweetness that comes from honey can be taken with smoothness. If you take too much, it will make you vomit.”

This scripture, therefore, provides the balanced principle, which is also in today’s nutritional guidelines. That is, taking a lot of food, even nutritious meals, might cause numerous complications, for example, obesity and gut problems. Despite the lack of a direct diet plan imposed by the Bible, it has lots to say about how we consume food– prayerfully, conscientiously, and in moderation.

Mental Health: The Role of Faith and Thought

The Bible also provides guidance on mental and emotional health, recognizing the connection between our thoughts and our physical wellbeing.

Proverbs 17:22 states:

“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

This verse acknowledges the powerful impact that our mental state can have on our physical health. Negative emotions such as stress, anxiety, and despair can manifest in bodily symptoms, leading to chronic health conditions. Conversely, a positive outlook, rooted in faith and hope, can promote healing and resilience.

Philippians 4:8 offers further advice on maintaining mental health:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

By focusing our thoughts on positive, uplifting subjects, we can reduce stress and promote overall wellbeing. This aligns with modern psychological practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, which emphasizes the importance of managing negative thoughts to improve mental health.

Rest and Sabbath: The Importance of Balance

The Bible also has counsels on mental and emotional health, given that our mind affects our body.

Proverbs 17:22 states:

“The heart can be described as a cheerful heart, which is healthy medicine, but a crushed spirit is a dry bone.”

This verse brings out the fact that the state of our mind has the ability to greatly affect our bodies. Stress, anxiety, and despair may have negative impacts on one’s health, thus developing long-term illnesses. On the other hand, hope is a good attitude that comes from faith and hope can help in the healing process and in building up the strength to cope with the ill effects of stress.

Philippians 4:8 offers further advice on maintaining mental health:

”Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovable, whatever is admirable—if there is any excellence and if there is any praise—think about these things.”

In this way, by having positive thinking, we can decrease stress and anxiety and improve our overall health. This is in accord with the current psychological interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy where the individual is taught on how to regulate his or her thoughts to enhance mental health.

Practical Steps for Incorporating Biblical Health Principles

Understanding the Bible’s divine blueprint for health is just the first step. The next step is to apply these principles to your daily life. Here are some practical ways to do so:

1. Mindful Eating: Reflect on the dietary guidelines in the Bible, such as moderation and choosing foods that promote health. Incorporate more whole, natural foods into your diet and avoid overindulgence.
2. Positive Thinking: Practice focusing on positive, uplifting thoughts. When negative emotions arise, counter them with scripture that reinforces faith, hope, and love.
3. Regular Rest: Make rest a priority by observing a weekly Sabbath or taking regular breaks throughout your day. Ensure you are getting enough sleep each night, as this is essential for physical and mental health.
4. Holistic Health Practices: Consider your health from a holistic perspective, addressing not just your physical needs but also your spiritual and emotional wellbeing. Engage in activities that nourish your soul, such as prayer, meditation, and spending time in nature.
5. Community Support: Surround yourself with a community of like-minded individuals who support your health journey. This could be a church group, a fitness class, or a group of friends who share your commitment to wellness.

Embrace the Divine Blueprint

Health is not only a physical aspect of an individual’s life but also encompasses the mental and spiritual wellbeing of an individual, and the bible has provided the directions to a healthy life. Adopting these principles as outlined in the biblical framework can enable you to have a more comprehensive approach to health while at the same time working towards a healthier you.

For more information on how the word of God can be applied in your pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, you should consider reading Kimberly McCowan’s “The Bible Body Connection.” This book seeks to explain the correlation between the bible and health as well as provides tips and encouragement to help you adopt healthier habits.

Learn the holy principles of health today!” The Bible Body Connection” by Kimberly McCowan is out now. This is the beginning of your journey to wholeness and total wellbeing.