How do we physically take care of our body well? That is a question many women find themselves thinking about often. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says, “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.” A verse heard commonly. What does that mean exactly?
As I have grown older I’ve seen caring for my body look different as I’ve had seasons of working as a full time nurse without children, to having children and becoming a stay at home mom and ironically now owning a catering business for a little over a year. A business revolving around food! Like most women, I’ve not always found it easy to honor God with my body.
When my son was born, the world had shut down shortly after due to the pandemic. I was 3 months postpartum with two children under two years old. I was isolated from family and friends. I treated food as something I deserved, because honestly I was in total survival mode. Caring for my body in that season meant giving myself more grace to get through the day and rest when I needed it. I knew it was a season that would pass. I also learned quickly with my firstborn that my body doesn’t do well being sleep deprived! I poured into my children, but also really neglected myself in the process.
When I got my feet under me and the pandemic seemed to come to a close, I knew that in order to care for my children well, I also needed to care for myself. It had been a long time coming and I wondered how I could make some changes that would not only benefit me, but those I love the most. It's like the analogy of how can we pour into others when our cup is dry?
It is vulnerable to reach out to someone and admit you need help. No one had ever sat down with me to discuss how to care for my body physically. A dear friend of mine, Kori Reid, took her precious time to pour into me. Such a beautiful example of Godly community. She took time out of her busy schedule to help me and it is honestly one of the best gifts I’ve ever received. We started from the very basics. I was so determined to grow and learn as I felt pretty lost.
Because someone poured into me, and with my hard work and discipline, I was able to lose 40 pounds. My new lifestyle didn’t just impact me. It impacted my whole family. I learned to care for myself and how to best care for Austin, my husband, and my kids. Caring for my physical body in early motherhood has changed my life for the better and I look back now, 4 years later, and think, how did I honestly do that? It is only by God’s goodness and the Holy Spirit giving me the discipline I needed. I am now able to teach and train my children on how to care and honor their physical bodies.
Later in 1 Corinthians Paul writes, “whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” I’m so thankful to those who have encouraged me on my health journey and I want to encourage you in yours.
Meet the Author!
Kelly is a wife to Austin and a stay at home mom to two children. Her most recent venture is a charcuterie board business, Boards By Kelly. She enjoys traveling and spending quality time with friends and family.