Passages on
gluttony. Temperance is the principle that counteracts excessive behavior.
Moderation; particularly, habitual moderation in regard to the indulgence of the natural appetites and passions; restrained or moderate indulgence; as temperance in eating and drinking; temperance in the indulgence of joy or mirth. temperance in eating and drinking is opposed to gluttony and drunkenness, and in other indulgences, to excess.
When we contemplate our temple from the Lord's perspective we know we belong to Him. He's entrusted our soul and spirit within this structure and we're responsible for its upkeep. The way we care for ourselves is a reflection of our ownership and the honor we bestow through our attentiveness.
Have you ever seen someone with a car they loved? They'll brave the heat to get it washed and vacuum the nooks and crannies to make sure its spotless. They get checkups and adjustments to keep it running well and give it the gas it requires. If they're willing to do that for a car or another possession they hold dear. How much more we would do on the Lord's behalf?
The temple is an instrument for worship and service and our spiritual calling card. The first thing someone encounters before they know our name is how we look. What are we communicating? What are we saying about our faith, discipline or self-respect? What would they assume without our input?
I'm reminded of a reel I saw the other day on my feed. I don't know her personally but a few things are clear from viewing the clip. The first is obvious. She's crazy about pink and you see it everywhere. But notice the space. It's very clean and orderly. As you watch her tidying observe her body language. She isn't grumbling or bemoaning the task. She's created a ritual and celebrates with candles. How many do the same?
This is a woman who loves her home and it's evident. She poured herself in that space on behalf of her family. Watching her excitement about the little things for herself or loved ones is precious. The attention she's shown to their comfort is admirable.
That's the way we respond when there's genuine regard. You're not keeping score or looking for loopholes. You do your best because they're deserving and want to please them. The Lord doesn't have to tell us to value our health. We should mimic her example and do it without request. Consider the ways He can use you because you're disciplined.
A year ago I shared my experiences with someone who was struggling to lose her belly fat. I encouraged her to try ancient grains and suggested some foods she should avoid during that period and shared a book for further insight. She took my advice but I wasn't aware. It was many months before I returned.
Now others are following suit and they created a thread where updates are shared with encouraging words. They're all middle age and beyond menopause. Women don't typically lose weight in that season. They usually gain. It took one person who said you can who shared her story and God's involvement. They weren't discussing Him before that occurred but the acknowledgment brought them out of the shadows and He's a topic too.
The Lord can use anything if we avail ourselves to Him. Including our looks, diet, fitness and more. There's someone who needs to know what we do and see our example. I have a group of women embracing their loveliness when the world says otherwise. And that's the gospel.
~bella
