1 Corinthians 9:27

THE OUTWARD LIFE OF A STEWARD
Caring For Your Body

But I discipline my body and keep it under control.

Part 1

In 1 Corinthians 9:27 Paul says, But I discipline my body and keep it under control… (ESV). Keeping our body under control is one of the most challenging stewardship responsibilities we have. There is so much about it than can break down or break us down. Poorly fed and exercised, it will break down physically. Poorly disciplined, it will break us down morally. Poorly bridled, our tongue can cut people to ribbons and permanently damage countless human relationships. Our body is like a wild stallion that needs to be regularly worked out, kept in a locked stable to prevent it from wandering off, and bridled at all times to keep it from trampling those around it. As a steward of God’s body, how are you doing keeping your body under control. Think about it.

Part 2

Few people realize the close connection between our physical and spiritual wellbeing. How we feel physically has a massive impact on how well we are doing spiritually. Paul understood this. He shares in I Corinthians 9:27, But I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified (NASB). Like Paul, we need to be continually retraining and restraining our bodies so that they will not hinder our spiritual lives. When we care for and properly feed our body, our spiritual energy level is also greatly enhanced. Focusing on the spiritual part of our life without simultaneously focusing on the physical part leaves both under developed. Is it time for you to start actively stewarding your body? Think about it.