We are lucky to live in a time and culture where women are truly appreciated for what they provide to their communities. There is no better time than now to use that to make an impact in our homes and communities. As women, we were created to be nurturing, inquisitive, empowering, generous and compassionate. God has given us physical vessels to do his spiritual work.  When we get caught up in His work serving others, it is difficult to care for our physical vessels to the same degree. The scale tips and our bodies receive the consequences. In 3 John 1:2, we find this prayer:

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.(NKJV)

As we pursue our purpose in Him, we must not forget to maintain the health of our vessels. On airlines, flight attendants instruct that you please put on your oxygen mask before aiding to your children or those less capable. Otherwise, you will be ill equipped to provide help to anyone else needing it. Women are more inclined to give of their necessities to ensure the well being of another. We will sacrifice our own comfort and health if it means others will be taken care of where they otherwise wouldn’t be. This prayer in 3 John 1:2 brings to light that our individual health is just as important as the prosperity we find in living life according to His will, serving His church while nurturing our soul. We have to fight for our health and wellness daily. As you prepare to serve His children, hold true to your identity in Christ and take pride in your training along the way .

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.- 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NKJV)

I believe this passage says it best. “Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” There is a clear distinction between those who compete for their own glory and those who compete for His glory. The crown you will obtain is imperishable, lasting forever and showing others the power of His love and mercy. 

You might not consider yourself an athlete or a competitor of any kind. However, I believe that, if every woman would shift her thoughts to that of a competitor, we might discover newfound strength, resilience, and discipline. If you are an athlete or competitor, you already know that self-discipline IS self-love. 

Think of your daughters, nieces, granddaughters, family and friends. 

-       Are they inspired by Jesus’ vitality?

-       Are they encouraged to compete for His glory?

-       Do they know who they are in Christ and value themselves?

-       Do they possess the confidence He requires of them?

If you believe the answer is “no” for the majority of them, help them look to Jesus. In Him, they will find training that will ultimately help them win the imperishable crown! When we love ourselves, we show others that they, too, are valuable. This generation and future generations need to know that the way we respect and love our bodies helps to share the gospel of His love for us. 

Coral Gibson

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