A Prayer About My Body

When I consider my physique

DEAR GOD,

You made me the way I am, and for most of my life I accepted that, especially as a child—I wasn’t too concerned about my body. These days, however, I seem to have a love-hate relationship with my physique. Sometimes I like how I look; other times, not so much, especially when I compare myself to the young and fit bodies at the gym. Often I pamper my body and work to keep in shape, making sure to exercise, grab eight hours of sleep, take vitamins and antioxidants, and eat right—fat-free and low calorie. At other times I abuse it, snacking on junk, guzzling coffee, staying up way too late—adding pounds and cholesterol in the process. You created me with my physical makeup—height, basic shape, senses, organs, and limbs. Help me accept the truth that you know me and love me that way. But you have also given me a stewardship responsibility. So please give me the discipline to take care of myself so I can better live and serve. My body is yours.

Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20