God made our physical bodies and, at the same time, we are spiritual beings. As Christians, we are called the Body of Christ. God has made your life to be shared with the family of God - your heart, mind, spirit, and even your body. Did you know your body is not your own? Why did God design you this way, and how is it part of God's purpose for you to share this part of your being: your physical energy, attention, priorities, and activities?
In this article, we will look at how to relate to each other as One Body and how to take care of our own physical bodies. By learning and following what the Bible says about this topic, you can reflect Christ through how you view and use your body, resulting in true freedom and fulfillment.
In this article, we will look at how to relate to each other as One Body and how to take care of ourselves. By learning and following what the Bible says about this topic, you can reflect Christ through how you view and use your body, resulting in true freedom and fulfillment.
In 1 Corinthians 6:15-20, Paul writes, in part:
“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? ... You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
This passage emphasizes that we are One with God and that our bodies are meant to reflect Christ.
When Paul talks about our bodies being members of Christ, he’s highlighting the idea of oneness. Just like in a marriage where two become one flesh, we are meant to be one with Christ. This means that our bodies, our energy, and our activities are all part of how we live out God’s purpose.
Every action we take with our bodies can be an act of worship. Whether it's working, playing, resting, or serving others, we’re doing it all as part of our relationship with Christ. It is a beautiful thing!
Our bodies are part of something bigger than fulfilling our every whim or self-centered pursuits. They’re temples in which the Holy Spirit dwells, and they’re meant to be used for God's purposes. Think about it like this: if you borrow something precious from a friend, you take good care of it, right? The same goes for our bodies. They’re on loan from God, and we’re responsible for using them in ways that honor Him.
In 1 Corinthians, Paul reminds us:
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” - 1 Corinthians 12:27
We are meant to share the essence of our beings with the community of believers. We are all members of One Body, and are, therefore, called to serve and honor each other. This means that our physical presence, our time, and our energy are meant to benefit others and build up the community.
Imagine a world where everyone used their abilities and energy to help one another. It would be a place of support, love, and mutual respect. By viewing our bodies as part of the larger body of Christ, we can contribute to creating such a world.
For those who are married, Paul has some interesting advice. He says in 1 Corinthians:
“The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife.” - 1 Corinthians 7:4
Rather than being about control, this instruction is about mutual respect, partnership, unity, and shared purpose. When you view your body as something to be shared with your spouse, it changes the dynamic of your relationship. It fosters intimacy, trust, and a deeper connection.
Related: 4 Benefits of Reading the Bible Daily with Your Wife
Let's look again at Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 6:
“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
Since our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, taking care of them is important. We are not to neglect our physical needs. This includes making healthy lifestyle choices, like, staying active and being mindful of what we consume. A healthy body helps us more effectively fulfill God’s purposes.
We can honor God by eating well, exercising, getting enough rest, and avoiding harmful substances. When we feel good physically, we’re better equipped to serve others and live out our calling.
Related: 1-Year Bible Reading Series for Healthy Living
In Ephesians 5:1-21, Paul says, in part:
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time...And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit...
Is it time to clean house? Maybe. Just like maintaining a home requires regular upkeep, our bodies and minds need attention too.
Are there areas in your life that need a little tidying up? Are there physical habits or attitudes about others that need to be swept away? Are you consuming things that uplift and strengthen, or things that drag you or others down?
Ask God to help you identify and clean out those dusty corners so you can be a healthy, vibrant dwelling place for His Spirit; and, as you do this, ask Him to help you walk in the fullness of His Spirit. By regularly “cleaning house" and walking in the Spirit's fullness, you make room for God to work more fully in your life.
In Galatians, Paul says:
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” - Galatians 2:20
Your body is not your own. Living for Christ means using your body in ways that honor Him. It means finding joy in serving others, supporting your spouse, using your talents to bless those around you, and living with purpose. When you see your body as an instrument of God's love, every action takes on new meaning. By taking on God's perspective, you will open yourself up to the incredible freedom and purpose that God has for you.
Thanks for reading this! If you have any thoughts or questions, feel free to share them in the comments. See you next time!