Nicole blinked twice as she stared at the number on the doctor’s scale. She knew a few more pounds had glommed on her midsection, but seven?
During the ensuing consult with Dr. Ames, Nicole mentioned her knees had started to hurt, she felt tired much of the time, and seemed susceptible to every virus that came along. Dr. Ames then shared Nicole’s blood work, revealing several more concerns. His treatment solution surprised her. “I’m going to send you to a nutritionist,” he said.
Three months later, Nicole already felt much stronger and healthier—energized even. Her knees no longer hurt, and her blood pressure and cholesterol had dropped dramatically. Nicole had learned her diet included too many simple carbs and high-fat proteins, depleting her body of strength, energy, and good health.
It’s a fact: we can’t function well without proper nutrition.
The same principle applies in the spiritual realm. We can’t function well when our souls are improperly nourished. We need to ingest spiritual vitamins.
For example, consider Vitamin A. As a physical nutrient in our food, it improves our eyesight—specifically night vision. In the spiritual realm, Vitamin A might represent Adoration of God, which improves our “vision” through dark circumstances.
“When we choose to practice adoration anyway
in the midst of whatever we are feeling,
our words lift us over that barrier
and into a deeper connectedness with God.”
—Sarah Hagerty[1]
That deeper connectedness with God results in strength and perseverance for what we face.
The benefits of the Vitamin B complex include converting food into energy. In our spirits, the Bible energizes us as we convert the food of truth into the energy of faith.
“I am sorry for men who do not read the Bible every day.
I wonder why they deprive themselves
of the strength and the pleasure.”
—Woodrow Wilson[2]
Vitamin C enhances the growth of bone, skin, and muscle. Companionship with God causes us to grow in faith, character, and contentment—no matter our circumstances.
“The greater your knowledge of the goodness and grace of God on your life,
the more likely you are to praise Him in the storm.”
–Matt Chandler[3]
Vitamin D plays a role in fighting germs. Delight in God’s blessings fights off the germs of melancholy and discouragement in our souls.
“Thankfulness restores a healthy perspective about our lives.”
—Valerie Bell[4]
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects against cell damage. Empowerment from God protects against soul damage—from such hurtful emotions as fear, anxiety, and hopelessness.
“When God is recognized as the One who undertakes for us,
then difficulties are opportunities to trust Him . . .
contentment sings in the heart,
and all things are possible.”
—F. E. Marsh[5]
Vitamin K promotes healthy bones which support the body; knowledge of God supports the soul as we affirm his goodness and perfections.
“To fall in love with God is the greatest of all romances;
to seek Him, the greatest adventure;
to find Him the greatest human achievement.”
—St. Augustine
* * * * * * * * * *
I praise you, O God, that as we absorb these soul-vitamins into our spirits, our trust in you will grow. We’ll find our strength renewed, and be able to run the race of life without lapsing into despair. May we be mindful each day to be enriched in your presence, in your Word, and in your power.
(Isaiah 41:31; Hebrews 4:16; Psalm 119:28; Ephesians 6:1)
Notes:
[1] Unseen, Zondervan, 2017, p. 151
[2] Soul Retreats for Busy People, compiled by Lila Epson, Inspirio, 2002, p. 40
[3] https://www.christianity.com/wiki/christian-life/inspirational-christian-quotes-about-love.html
[4] A Well-Tended Soul, Zondervan, 1996, p. 102
[5] Quote/Unquote, compiled by Lloyd C. Cory, Victor Books, 1977, p. 136
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From the Inside Out 