Last week I started a series on getting Fit for Life. Once we have an understanding for what God’s prescription for health is, I believe there are six principles that will help us change.
- Principle of dedication – I must commit my body to God. Romans 12:1
Brothers and sisters, in light of all I have shared with you about God’s mercies, I urge you to offer your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice to God, a sacred offering that brings Him pleasure; this is your reasonable, essential worship.
- Principle of concentration – I must refocus my mind. Romans 12:2
Do not allow this world to mold you in its own image. Instead, be transformed from the inside out by renewing your mind. As a result, you will be able to discern what God wills and whatever God finds good, pleasing, and complete.
- Principle of evaluation – I must humbly assess my current state. Romans 12:3
Because of the grace allotted to me, I can respectfully tell you not to think of yourselves as being more important than you are; devote your minds to sound judgment since God has assigned to each of us a measure of faith.
- Principle of cooperation – I must get a support group. Romans 12:4-5
For in the same way that one body has so many different parts, each with different functions; we, too—the many—are different parts that form one body in the Anointed One. Each one of us is joined with one another, and we become together what we could not be alone.
- Principle of affirmation – I must fill my life with love. Romans 12:9-10
Love others well, and don’t hide behind a mask; love authentically. Despise evil; pursue what is good as if your life depends on it. Live in true devotion to one another, loving each other as sisters and brothers. Be first to honor others by putting them first.
- Principle of motivation – I must nurture my enthusiasm. Romans 12:11-12
Do not slack in your faithfulness and hard work. Let your spirit be on fire, bubbling up and boiling over, as you serve the Lord. Do not forget to rejoice, for hope is always just around the corner. Hold up through the hard times that are coming, and devote yourself to prayer.
One their own these can seem difficult. Some of us lack motivation or concentration. For some like me reaching out to others for support would be hard. What are your thoughts on these six principles?
Stay with us as we discover goals that will help us in getting Fit for Life.