Posted on June 4th, 2025

When we think about spiritual practices, we often focus on prayer, meditation, and scripture reading. However, taking care of our bodies is just as important, as it is deeply intertwined with our spiritual well-being. The Bible teaches us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and as such, we are called to honor God by caring for them. In this blog post, we’ll explore why caring for our bodies is not only a physical act but a spiritual one as well. We’ll discuss the connection between body care and spiritual growth, the biblical basis for stewardship, and how self-care practices can bring us closer to God’s purpose for our lives.

Our Bodies Are Temples of the Holy Spirit

The Bible reminds us that our bodies are not our own; they belong to God. As believers, we are called to honor God with every part of our being, including our physical bodies. Caring for ourselves—whether it’s through nourishing food, exercise, or using natural skincare—is a way of acknowledging that our bodies are sacred. By respecting and nurturing our bodies, we are showing reverence to the Creator who designed us in His image. This spiritual act of stewardship goes beyond just avoiding harm; it involves actively making choices that promote health, wellness, and spiritual growth.

When we embrace the idea that our bodies are temples, we begin to see every action we take in caring for them as an act of worship. Whether it’s choosing clean, nourishing ingredients for our skin or making time for rest and relaxation, we are honoring God’s design. Caring for our bodies is not just about maintaining physical health but also about cultivating a deeper connection with God’s intentions for our lives. This holistic approach to self-care enriches our spiritual walk, allowing us to serve God more fully and faithfully.

The Connection Between Physical Health and Spiritual Growth

Our physical health has a direct impact on our spiritual well-being. When we neglect our bodies, whether through poor diet, lack of rest, or harmful substances, we hinder our ability to fully engage in spiritual practices. For example, feeling fatigued or unwell can make it difficult to pray, meditate, or serve others with a joyful heart. On the other hand, when we take care of our bodies, we feel energized, focused, and ready to embrace the tasks God has placed before us. Physical health provides the foundation for spiritual vitality, making it easier to grow in our faith and carry out God’s will.

Spiritual growth often requires energy and focus, both of which are supported by a healthy body. The Bible speaks about running the race set before us with endurance (Hebrews 12:1), which implies a need for strength, perseverance, and stamina. By taking care of our bodies, we equip ourselves to run the race of life with the vigor necessary to pursue our purpose. Whether it’s eating the right foods, staying active, or practicing good self-care, these actions contribute to both our physical and spiritual growth, allowing us to serve God with a clear mind and a strong body.

Stewardship: A Biblical Mandate for Caring for Our Bodies

Stewardship is a key biblical principle, and it extends beyond finances and possessions—it includes the care of our bodies. In Genesis 1:28, God commands us to “be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.” This command is not just about expanding in number but also about taking care of all that God has given us, including our own physical bodies. By taking care of ourselves, we honor God’s creation and fulfill the mandate to be good stewards. When we approach self-care as a form of stewardship, we align ourselves with God’s plan and purpose for our lives.

This concept of stewardship is also seen in how we manage our health. Just as a gardener tends to the plants in his care, we are called to tend to our bodies, providing them with the nourishment and care they need to thrive. By choosing clean ingredients, engaging in physical activity, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, we are being faithful stewards of God’s creation. This act of self-care is not selfish but is an essential part of living a life that glorifies God.

The Spiritual Benefits of Self-Care

Self-care is often seen as a way to reduce stress or improve physical health, but it also offers significant spiritual benefits. When we take time for self-care, we allow ourselves to rest, recharge, and reconnect with God. The Bible encourages us to take time for rest (Exodus 20:8-10), and self-care practices such as relaxation, meditation, and reflection can provide the opportunity to slow down and listen to God. In these moments of stillness, we can hear His voice more clearly and find peace in His presence.

Furthermore, caring for ourselves allows us to approach our spiritual practices with a renewed sense of energy and focus. When we neglect our well-being, it becomes harder to engage in spiritual activities with a joyful heart. However, when we prioritize self-care, we can approach prayer, worship, and service with greater intention and devotion. Self-care becomes a form of spiritual renewal, reminding us that God desires for us to be whole—body, mind, and spirit.

How Self-Care Can Help Us Love Others Better

Caring for ourselves is not just about personal well-being—it also enables us to better love and serve others. When we are physically healthy, emotionally balanced, and spiritually nourished, we are more capable of showing love and care to those around us. The Bible commands us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31), and self-care is an essential part of being able to love others well. If we neglect our own needs, it becomes difficult to be fully present and supportive for others in their time of need.

By taking time to care for our bodies, we create a space where we can love and serve others without burnout or exhaustion. Whether it’s giving someone a kind word, offering a helping hand, or simply being present, self-care allows us to engage with others in a meaningful way. It’s through taking care of ourselves that we are empowered to care for those around us, reflecting the love of Christ in our actions.

The Role of Rest and Reflection in Spiritual Wellness

Rest is an essential component of both physical health and spiritual well-being. In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to neglect the importance of rest, but the Bible repeatedly reminds us to take time to rest and refresh ourselves. Jesus Himself took time away from the crowds to pray and recharge (Mark 1:35). Rest allows us to reflect, rejuvenate, and regain our strength, both physically and spiritually. It’s in these moments of rest that we can more clearly hear God’s voice and experience His peace.

Incorporating rest into our self-care routine is not just a luxury but a spiritual necessity. When we rest, we are acknowledging that God is in control and that we don’t need to be constantly active to fulfill His purpose for our lives. Rest is a form of surrender, allowing us to trust in God’s provision and timing. Through rest and reflection, we create space for spiritual renewal, which strengthens our relationship with God and equips us to face life’s challenges with grace and faith.

Choosing God-Honoring Self-Care Practices

Self-care can take many forms, but the most impactful practices are those that honor God and align with His Word. When we choose self-care practices that are in line with biblical principles, we not only care for our bodies but also grow spiritually. For instance, choosing natural skincare products that are free from harmful chemicals aligns with the biblical call to be good stewards of the earth. Similarly, engaging in activities like prayer, meditation, and journaling allows us to nurture our spirits and stay connected to God’s presence. Every act of self-care, when done with intention and gratitude, becomes an act of worship.

God has provided us with everything we need to care for our bodies—His creation offers countless resources for nourishment, healing, and restoration. When we choose to honor Him in our self-care practices, we reflect His love and faithfulness in our lives. By being mindful of the choices we make in caring for our bodies, we align ourselves with God’s purposes and grow deeper in our relationship with Him.

Caring for our bodies is not just a physical act—it is a spiritual act that honors God and deepens our connection with Him. By treating our bodies with respect, we align with the biblical principles of stewardship, health, and self-care. Whether it’s through nourishing food, restful sleep, or natural skincare, taking care of ourselves is a way of worshiping God. It allows us to live with intention, purpose, and clarity, ready to serve Him and others. If you're ready to take the next step in honoring your body, we invite you to explore our products at Wholesome Stewards LLC. Reach out to us at [email protected] or call us at (848) 238-5531 to start your journey toward holistic wellness today!