Caring About Good Health

Photo Credit: Brayden Winemiller

(By Heather Marshall)

Did you know that loving other believers, as Jesus commanded (John 13:35), involves caring for all aspects of their lives, including their physical health?

This idea is illustrated in the third epistle of John, where the apostle writes to his dear friend Gaius: “Dear friend, I pray that you are prospering in every way and are in good health, just as your whole life is going well” (3 John 2).

I have often thought that the most important part of loving other believers is focusing on the spiritual aspect of our relationship. However, John's example shows us otherwise: we need to love and care for each other in every aspect of life — spiritual, emotional, and physical.

Jesus did not overlook the physical needs of His disciples while on earth. He provided food when they were hungry (Matthew 14:13-21) and encouraged them to rest when they needed it (Mark 6:31).

So, what does it mean to care for the physical health of other believers? 

John’s example tells us that one way to show concern for someone’s health is to pray for them. He mentions that he is praying for Gaius to be in good health. We can do this for each other — not just when health is failing, but also by consistently praying for one another’s good health. Often, we only pray when someone is already sick. 

What if we prayed for their health at all times?

This practice could make a significant impact. Sharing, just as John did with Gaius, that we are praying for each other’s well-being really shows that we care enough to bring each other before God, petitioning for our good health.

Another way to care for each other’s physical health is to actively ask about it and genuinely listen to how they’re doing. Too often, we ask others how they are, but don’t take the time to listen to their answers or inquire further about their health.

Living in this fallen world means we all face physical challenges, and it’s important to share these and truly feel supported as we do so.

Authentic sharing and receiving support are important, but we can take it a step further by offering accountability for our physical health. Accountability is a key component of growth and achieving goals.

I recall a time when I set a goal for my physical health: to wake up early for a home workout while the house was quiet. I shared this goal with my sister, and we decided to meet on Zoom in the mornings to encourage each other. This strategy was very effective and resulted in spiritual benefits as well; we also prayed for one another and encouraged each other in our morning Bible readings.

Other practical examples of accountability we can implement for our physical well-being include encouraging healthy meals by sharing meal plans, checking in with an accountability partner regarding their rest habits, or setting up a walking schedule with a friend.

When we work together in community for our physical health, we are more likely to meet our goals and demonstrate the love that Jesus calls us to exhibit toward one another.

Caring for one another's physical health is a vital expression of our love as believers. Just as the apostle John exemplified in his relationship with Gaius, we are called to actively engage in each other’s lives, supporting not only spiritual but also emotional and physical well-being. 

Through prayer, meaningful conversations, and accountability, we can create a nurturing environment that uplifts and encourages one another on our health journeys.

Let us remember that our physical well-being is interconnected with our spiritual and emotional lives. By addressing this holistic care, we help foster a stronger community rooted in love. Together, we can inspire and motivate each other to lead healthier lives, reflecting the joy and abundance that God desires for us all.