NOURISHING THE TEMPLE: A BIBLICAL
APPROACH TO WHOLESOME EATING
Evarista Kajoh
“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;” (1 Corinthians 6:19). As believers, we recognize that our bodies are not merely flesh and bone but sanctuaries of the Most High. The sustenance we choose is not just for physical nourishment but also an act of worship, honouring the Creator who intricately designed us.
DIVINE PROVISION AND NUTRITIONAL WISDOM
The Lord, in His wisdom, has provided a bounty of foods that cater to our nutritional needs. A balanced diet, as outlined in Proverbs 25:27, cautions against excess, encouraging moderation. This balance is found in a variety of foods that supply carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, and vitamins—each serving a divine purpose for our well-being.
BOUNTIFUL HARVEST
Incorporate a cornucopia of fruits such as mangoes, watermelons, papayas, bananas, and oranges into your daily intake. These are not only delightful to the palate but are packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants.
VEGETABLES: THE GREEN PASTURES
Vegetables like okra, pumpkin leaves (Ugu), bitter leaf, cabbage, and carrots are akin to the green pastures the Psalmist speaks of in Psalm 23. They restore our bodies and support our immune system.
SUSTAINING GRAINS AND TUBERS
Staples such as yam, rice, cassava, and potatoes provide the energy we need to serve and glorify God in our daily tasks, reflecting the provision of manna to the Israelites.
PROTEINS: THE BUILDING BLOCKS
Proteins found in fish, beef, tofu, soybeans, beans, and chicken are the building blocks of our temple, allowing us to grow and repair, as we are reminded in Ephesians 4:16, where each part of the body works harmoniously.
SAMPLE MEAL PLAN FOR A DAY:
- Breakfast: Begin the day with a fruit medley of papaya and watermelon, alongside a nourishing cereal such as millet porridge (Pap) and bean pudding (Moimoi).
- Lunch: A hearty bowl of vegetable or okra soup paired with Eba, Amala, or plantain provides a midday replenishment.
- Dinner: A colourful stir-fry of vegetables with boiled potatoes offers a light yet satisfying end to the day’s meals.
AFFORDABLE NUTRITION: GOD’S PROVISION IN SIMPLICITY
Proverbs 30:8-9 teaches us to desire neither poverty nor riches but to be fed with the food that is needful for us. If budget constraints limit access to certain foods, remember that nutrition is not synonymous with expense. Beans, affordable dry fish, and home-grown vegetables can provide the same nutritional benefits as costlier alternatives.
CULTIVATING DAILY HEALTHFUL PRACTICES:
- Start your day with a cup of green tea or a warm ginger and garlic infusion, reminiscent of the healing balm in Gilead.
- Follow the natural rhythm God has set, completing your meals before nightfall.
- Hydrate with water, the source of life, as freely given as the living waters Christ offers.
- Snack on vegetables and fruits, such as garden eggs, carrots, cucumbers, and nuts, to sustain you between meals.
- Embrace physical activity, walking in the footsteps of the disciples, and stretching as you labour, for we are called to be active stewards of our bodies.
“Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Let us be mindful of our consumption, choosing foods that honour our bodies as temples.
Evarista Kajoh is an Event Caterer, resident in Abuja. She is also the CEO of Evarista Kajoh Foundation for Women Empowerment.
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