I think that often times, however, we tend to focus on
one area. We address the part that seems the most manageable – the part we
think we can easily fix and keep under control. Then whether out of fear or
other insecurities, we sweep the overwhelming areas of our lives under the rug,
hoping that eventually they will work themselves out.
Yet, there is danger in overemphasizing one area above
all the rest. By ignoring problems, they will eventually begin to spill over. Instead
of gaining control, we lost it; and find ourselves with failed attempts at achieving
good health.
Rather than take this one-track, compartmentalized
approach, we should be focusing on the whole
person. Wholeness is not a destination, or a bullet point to check off on your
to-do list. It’s a way of life that is full and satisfying, because it
addresses every area of who we are...
MIND | Your mind is an incredible
gift. From it you reason, establish decisions, originate thoughts, and form
your opinions. In the midst of all your thought processes, it continues to
remind your body of how it should function moment-by-moment. Not only is it a
place of knowledge and intellect, but it also stores memories, sparks
creativity, and cultivates your imagination.
“Do
not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able
to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans
12:2)
BODY | Maintaining the health of
our bodies is about more than just our outward appearance or physical fitness. It
impacts our ability to think clearly and handle our emotions. Simple common-sense
principles that we’re all familiar with (like good nutrition, strength
training, and getting enough sleep), can make a significant difference in our
overall wellness.
“Therefore,
I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,
holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. “ (Romans
12:1)
SOUL | Your soul is the core of
your being. It is the deep part of you that stores your greatest longings. Immortal,
and engraved with the Image of God (Genesis 1:26), it is our soul that calls
out to Him and recognizes we were made for more than this.
“My
soul thirsts for God…”
(Psalm 42:2)
SPIRIT | A spirit may be described
as “lively and vivacious,” or it may be known as “quiet and thoughtful.” I
think most of us are found to be a surprising and pleasant mixture of
qualities, but however you would describe it, your spirit is the aspect that sets
you apart as a unique individual. It is your personality, the part of you that
desires to interact with other people as you grow and share life together. We
are meant to be involved in our community, to befriend one another and help
each other through trials and joys. Just as the soul calls for our Savior, the
spirit cries out for the warmth of companions.
“But
the fruit of the Spirit is love,
joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and
self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians
5:22-23)
As we grow and strengthen each of these four aspects, we
can be more certain on our path towards a full and satisfying wholeness.
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with
all your soul
and with all your strength and with all your mind’;
and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
(Luke 10:27)
(Luke 10:27)
