WHOLE HEALTH

“…May your whole SPIRIT, SOUL, and BODY be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” – 1 Thessalonians 5:23

God’s Will in His Word and for His children is WHOLE HEALTH: “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your WHOLE SPIRIT, SOUL, and BODY be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1The.5:23). It’s usual to refer to WHOLE HEALTH as HOLISTIC HEALTH. Both terms convey the notion that things should be viewed as a whole and not just as a sum of their parts; and that systems should be more integrated than disparate. The human body is a system, not just individual members or parts with peculiar symptoms. Whole health examines the whole person: spirit, mind, and body. It cares for the whole person, covering multiple dimensions such as: physical, mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual health.

Whole Health relates to life flowing in and out of us like a breeze blowing through a house, and having God’s Presence transforming everything. Biological or physical health refers to the health of the body and its internal and external parts. Mental or emotional health means that our inner life provides stability and resilience to handle life’s stress, joys and difficulties. There are many aspects of life with unresolved issues, because we often try to avoid the associated pain and pressures. Latent emotions gradually gain momentum and begin to take control of our lives, impacting on our mental agility, self-control, and ability to interact with others.

Much of humanity is facing obstacles to sound health and wellness. Sustaining sound health relates to the physiological dimension and related issues such as regular exercise and proper nutrition, working out a lot or eating the right foods. It also borders on the mind's link to the body. An unhealthy, stressed-out lifestyle is the source of many human health problems on Earth. To be spiritually or emotionally fit is just as vital as being physically fit. Whatever may be the state of our personal health, living inspiration from God’s Word will enhance our journey to Whole Health: Providing support and motivation to keep the spirit, mind, and body healthy.

Mental and emotional imbalance has a ripple effect on the physical aspects of our being, where disease or discomfort spills over and manifests itself in symptoms or an illness. A Whole Health approach will cover: balanced nutritional intake, sufficient rest, moderate daily exercise, meditation in Scripture, social interaction with family, friends, and peers to obtain the nurturing and support as well as much needed intellect, information and guidance.

Our Father-God desires that we be strengthened wholly – sweetly integrating the spirit, mind, and body – the entire personality lounging in the Creator’s Presence. We can experience the healthiest life possible and enjoy every moment we have on earth without wasting time, losing resources, or backsliding into a negative, downward spiral. Biblical texts as antidotes against poor health, have offered comfort from illness, trouble and despair. In times of need, we can turn to Scriptures for encouragement and support. The Bible is saturated with faith-nourishing passages and encouragement for health.

Many believers have found succour, healing, strength, and wellness in the scriptures that call out to God when their bodies and minds fell to illness, troubles and despair. God’s Word can be applied in prayer as we turn to Him for Health! In addition to individual health, we can also refer to community health, neighbourhood health, city health, Church health, and societal health in general.