Losing weight can be one of the greatest challenges in your life. For some reason, even people who are completely successful in other areas of their lives still struggle with reaching and maintaining a healthy weight. Many Christians do not realize that the Bible has plenty to say about living a healthy life. Rather than struggle through one fad diet after another, Christians should try taking a new approach to weight loss by reading the Bible to see what it says about the importance of being healthy and using prayer as a tool to stay strong and resist temptation throughout the weight loss journey.
Fasting
Fasting is a common occurrence in the Bible. Acts 13:3 says, "So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off." Psalm 35:13 says, "Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting." Fasting is not a way to lose weight, however, fasting can be a way to begin a new diet. Choose one day to fast and pray about your weight loss goals. Commit your weight loss effort to God. Drink plenty of water to keep from becoming dehydrated. The day after fasting you will be able to begin your diet with the right attitude.
Do All to the Glory of God
The Bible verse 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." This is an excellent starting point for a Biblical weight loss regimen. Throughout your day, ask yourself if the food you are about to eat would glorify God. If you are reaching for unhealthy snacks, stop and pray for God's help to resist the temptation and ask Him to help you find something healthy to eat.
Temple of the Holy Spirit
I Corinthians 6:19 and 20 say, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit? ...Therefore honor God with your body." Write this verse out and tape it to your fridge and any cabinets containing snack foods. Remind yourself constantly that you must take care of your body because you are the temple of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit deserves a healthy, strong body to live within.
Moderation in Food Choices
Proverbs 25:27a says, "It is not good to eat much honey." God never says we should not eat foods we enjoy, especially sweets. He simply says we should not eat too much of a good thing. Consider limiting yourself to a sweet treat at the end of each week as a reward for sticking to your diet plan.
Exercise
Paul used many analogies that refer to running and being physically fit. For example, in 2 Timothy 4:7 Paul said "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." Running may not be the best exercise for you but the point is that Paul always mentioned athletics and exercise in a positive light. Yoga is excellent for gaining strength. Instead of traditional meditation, use the time for prayer. Jog on while listening to praise and worship music. Find an exercise you enjoy and stick with it.
Tags: Holy Spirit, weight loss, your body, resist temptation, says should, temple Holy