I Cor 6: 19

There once was an elderly carpenter ready to retire. He told his employer of his plans to leave and live a more leisurely life with his wife and extended family. The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go after years of faithful service and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor. The carpenter agreed, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career. When the carpenter finished his work, the employer came to inspect the house. He then handed the key to the carpenter. “This is your house.” He said “My gift to you!.” The carpenter was shocked…and ashamed! If he had only known he was building his own house he would have done it all so differently.

Romans 6:12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, so that you obey its desires.

I Cor 6: 19 Do you not know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 20 for you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body.

What kind of house are you building? While the above story could have so many applications in our lives, I want to focus on our physical temple. Are you using shoddy workmanship and inferior materials? This issue has been brought to the forefront in our house as our shoddy workmanship has started to lead to health issues. My husband is 200 lbs overweight and is dealing with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and gout. I am 25 lbs overweight (at 4’10 in that is more significant than it sounds) and have just had to go on high blood pressure medication. Unfortunately, we are not alone. Diabetes and obesity are at epidemic levels in our country. Even our children in America are dealing with obesity issues.

While I don’t think we need to look like Greek gods, I think it is important for us to take care of ourselves. We need to get enough rest, eat right, take vitamins and deal with health issues before they become a crises. When we are dealing with problems brought about by not taking care of ourselves, not only are we not at our best for our family and employer, we are not at our best for God. It directly impacts the amount and quality of ministry that we are able to provide.

Our house is currently in a re-modeling program. Does yours need one as well?

Sincerely,
Deborah