
Five years ago I was blessed with twin boys. Babies 6 and 7 came into the world after 17 hours of fruitless labor which ended in a c-section where the anesthesia didn’t take and the doctor didn’t listen when I told him I wasn’t numb. He made the first two incisions in spite of decided protest from me. But mercifully the anesthesiologist standing at my head swung into quick action and put me out of my misery for the remainder of the delivery.
I awoke confused and disoriented but grateful. However, the toll of a difficult pregnancy, traumatic delivery and a body that was depleted of natural vigor had worn me to the ground. A few days later, I returned home with my arms full and my nerves frayed. The following four years were a constant volley of health crises and doctor’s offices, including an ambulance ride and two surgical procedures.
I was a mess. Hanging by a thread.
Exhausted and desperate, I clung to my desire to find the path to better health. And because we serve a God who hears every plea, my desire was realized. I began studying what true health means and what it entails. I opened myself up to change because without it I knew I was handing over years of my life without so much as a fight.
I want to share with you 8 ways I have spent the last year growing toward improved health and restored vigor. Eight simple ways I’ve taken my life back by the grace of a loving God.
And God said,Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat. (Genesis 1:29)
Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. (Proverbs 3:7-8)
An intentionally sought-after relationship with the Creator
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; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. (I Corinthians 6:19-20)
Because good health and a close connection with God were intended to go hand in hand.