Wellness
What comes to mind when one thinks of Wellness? One might say it's the absence of illness or disease, but true Wellness is more than that. Wellness is better defined as optimal health and vitality, encompassing physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, interpersonal, social, and environmental well-being (Western Connecticut State University). Michael Arloski, in his book Wellness Coaching for Lasting Lifestyle Change, states that “Wellness is the experience of living life with high levels of awareness, conscious choice, self-acceptance, interconnectedness, love, meaning, and purpose.” The Scripture from 3 John 2 comes to mind: "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth." There isn't a subject or area of life that the Word of God doesn't cover. God cared enough to put it on men's hearts to write on all matters of life, relating not only to our spiritual needs but also to physical, emotional, mental, relational, and so on.
What does the Bible say about Wellness?
God created us as mind (soul), body, and spirit. We cannot neglect one and expect the others to be okay. Science is finally catching up to what has been long found in Scripture. Proverbs 3:5-8 (NIV) encourages us to "[t]rust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.” Good health will follow when we allow God to be the Lord.
Isaiah 58:11 puts it beautifully when it says, "And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not." What a stunning definition of Wellness. It's an abundant, overflowing, and prospering life in the inward and outward man. It is a body that is strong, a heart that is at peace, and a soul that has found rest in the love of its Creator. That is the life God intended and had in mind for His beloved children.
Why is health a vital part of the Christian life?
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us, "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." We are called to be good stewards of the bodies God has given us. God desires us to be WHOLE—spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically, etc. "Living a healthy Christian lifestyle involves more than just physical exercise and diet; it encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Regular prayer, meditation on Scriptures, and community involvement are as crucial as a balanced diet and physical activity" (Marisa D'Amore).
It is vital for Christians to be at the forefront of this conversation about wellness. The human body is a masterpiece that has the ability to heal itself when we follow God's plan. We must remember that God cares about what we put into our bodies, the emotions we allow to dictate our lives, and the thoughts we let enter our minds (2 Corinthians 10:5). Wellness has long been God's intention for our lives, and it is our responsibility to promote and practice it. We must pursue wellness so we can approach our kingdom work with vigor.
Jadah Daniel
Contributing Writer
Jadah Henry Daniel is a dedicated artist, writer, and health coach with over a decade of administrative experience, including five years in educational administration. She specializes in creative and promotional support for businesses, integrating her expertise in social media trends and graphic design. As a health coach, she partners with individuals navigating new life seasons, empowering them to achieve holistic well-being.
