January Is National Family Fit Lifestyle Month

Is Your Family Spiritually Fit?

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.  (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, ESV)

It’s a New Year, which means time for resolutions. Many parents include the goals of spending more time with the family and getting into shape as part of their resolutions. Perhaps appropriately, January is National Family Fit Lifestyle month; encouraging families to change their lifestyles to become healthier.

Quick! What is the first part of your plan on how to spend more time with your family and get fit? Is it spending time with the Lord? To truly get fit, you must first consider your spiritual life. Spending time with the Lord every day will not only help you keep and reach your goals, but it will also relieve stress and help you focus on the important matters.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, ESV)

Before beginning any transformation in life, lay the request in God’s hands. If you are not sure of where to begin in your daily walk with the Lord, consider our 52 Weeks Bible Reading program and commentary.

Next, consider the changes that could be made in your personal, daily life. Can you walk or ride a bike to someplace instead of driving your car? What about food? Instead of going out to eat for lunch, pack a lunch. Or, when out, consider the food your order and the amount eaten. “observe carefully what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to appetite.” (Proverbs 23:1b-2, ESV) Additionally, what about the meals for your family? Do you rely on the convenience of fast food or pizza delivery? Learn to cook!

Make preparing the meal a family activity. Let each person choose one meal a week and discover ways to make that meal healthier. If the children are old enough, let them prepare a meal once a week. Not only are you striving to meet your goals of spending more time with family and getting fit, but you are also fulfilling your responsibility to teach your children valuable skills that they will use later in life.

Finally, get up! Get moving! Get active! Make the time you spend with your family more meaningful. Instead of movie night, go for a walk, a bike ride, or play a game such as Frisbee or volleyball in the backyard. Perhaps try a new activity together as a family.

We are to glorify God with our bodies. Having a healthy body, taking care of what has been given to us, is glorifying to the Lord. Teaching children to look after themselves brings glory to the Lord. What other ways can you incorporate a Family Fit Lifestyle into your life?

For more information regarding how your financial support can help, please click here.