A better perspective

“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.”

1 Corinthians 6:19–20

Joy or Pain?

The day after Thanksgiving has a way of revealing our habits. Yesterday, we gathered around tables filled with family, friends, traditions, and more food than most of us eat in an average week. Today, we feel the aftermath—full stomachs, full hearts, and maybe even a little regret mixed in with gratitude.

I've had my ups and downs during holiday celebrations. So, I thought this would be a good moment to reflect on 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, which reminds us: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit…therefore honor God with your bodies.”

The Real Reason

This verse is not a post-holiday scolding—it’s actually a call to intentional stewardship of our bodies from a sexual perspective. However, body stewardship applies to all of our appetites. God designed our bodies to glorify Him and be ready to do what He calls us to do, and when He calls us to do it.

The main thing I’ve learned through the Fitness "F" is that the heart of fitness is body stewardship. It’s not about achieving a certain look; it’s about honoring God with the body He entrusted to us.

My Challenge

That’s where one of my personal standards was born: I only “splurge” on food when I’m with family and friends in a social setting—not when I’m alone. Tying indulgence to fellowship helps me enjoy celebration without drifting into unhealthy patterns. It keeps food in its proper place—as a gift, not a coping mechanism or form of abuse.

The Reason for the Seasons

Thanksgiving and other holidays are meant to be enjoyed with people we love. Scripture celebrates feasting, fellowship, and gratitude. The challenge isn’t the holiday meal—it’s the posture we carry into the meal and the days after. Will we walk in discipline and selflessness, or let one day of celebration turn into a season of excess?

So, as we move deeper into the holiday season, enjoy the food, but enjoy the moments with the people you care about more as you celebrate our Almighty God.

Ryan Johnson

MD5 Facilitator