Does It Really Matter What a Missionary Eats?
“A vacation? I don’t need that! It’s expensive,” we say. “The needs of the ministry are too pressing.” The same goes for food, exercise, rest…even fun. Missionaries take care of everyone else, but self-care is usually last on our long list of needs. This philosophy does not lend to missionaries who live faithful, fruitful and fulfilled on the field. It poorly reflects the love relationship we have with God. He adores His children and desires to see them live blessed.
I am not in favor of prosperity doctrines. They are not biblical and can be very damaging. As missionaries, we must be ready to embrace both joy and suffering in our lives. Though this is true, we also must be careful about developing a “ministry takes priority over all else” way of thinking.
It Pleases God When We Are Healthy
You are valuable to God. He loves you personally. God is a good Father who cares about your family and life, not only about what you do for Him. It is pleasing to God when a missionary takes care of their body, soul, and spirit. We must invest time and effort in doing this.
Normally, we do pretty well with the spiritual. It’s the soul and body we neglect.
A balanced lifestyle that includes care of our physical body is crucial to living well as missionaries. It is necessary for long-term effectiveness in ministry too.
We Don’t Want to Spoil Them
I arrived at the missionary training center where I was to speak. After settling into my room, they escorted me to the dining area. A special table was set for me and the leader. I was served chicken and a generous portion of vegetables and rice. There was even a bit of salad. It was a nice meal.
A few days into my teaching, I asked if I could sit with the students. As I sat down next to them, I looked at their food. They were eating rice, dahl (lentils) and only a tiny portion of vegetables. There was no salad, fruit, or meat on their plates.
I asked the training school leader about it. “Oh, we can’t afford to give them meat, salad, and fruit! That is much too expensive. They are missionaries in training. We don’t want to spoil them,” he declared.
“Hmmm.” I thought. “What are we teaching them about God’s goodness? What are we teaching them about healthy eating when this is what we offer?”
Reflecting on it further, I came to a conclusion. “If God can provide rice and dahl, He is big enough to also provide a healthy diet that includes vegetables, fruit, and meat.” I challenged the school leader to consider what their meal plan was communicating about the nature and character of God. It is one thing to teach that He is good in the classroom. But does our lifestyle and menu also reflect that?
“If God can provide rice and dahl, He is big enough to also provide a healthy diet that includes vegetables, fruit, and meat.”
Are you taking care of others, but not yourself?
“My mother’s sons were angry with me and made me take care of the vineyards; my own vineyard I had to neglect.”
Song of Solomon 1:6 NIV
3 Important Ways To Take Care of Yourself
1) Eat healthy.
What you put in your mouth affects how you function and feel. As many missionaries age, we struggle with weight gain. Along with this comes many diseases and health issues. Knees cause problems, heart issues surface and diabetes can become an issue for some.
When we are struggling with our health we are not able to serve God as fully as we would like to.
Whatever age you are, you can begin to eat a healthier diet. Don’t use the excuse of finances or travel to keep from healthy eating.
Believe me, I get it! It’s not easy to eat well when you are busy and travel frequently. Nor is it easy on a limited budget to get enough protein and vitamins. It’s much easier to just eat a high starch diet (potatoes, rice, corn, etc.) Easy is not always best.
Sugar has many negative effects on our bodies. It causes inflammation and many other issues.
Diets help but they rarely bring long-term change. What changes could you make to your diet to improve your health? What could you decide to eliminate? Soft drinks? Chips? Fried foods?
Ask the Lord to show you one step to take to eat healthier this coming week.
2) Exercise regularly.
Regular physical exercise is an important part of sustained health. As we age and are busier and busier, it often gets shoved aside. Even if you don’t enjoy sports, make a habit of taking a morning or evening walk around the neighborhood. It can even be combined with your prayer time.
I find that exercise with others is often more enjoyable and I can stay accountable. Is there someone in the neighborhood, a friend or a spouse you could begin to exercise with on a regular basis?
Combining strength-building exercises and cardiovascular exercises (running, swimming, walking) is best. Do one thing to exercise each day. You will feel better and stay healthier. Think about the long-term aspects of your health, not only about the needs of today.
3) Sleep enough.
Sleep is a wonderful healer of both our emotions and bodies. When we go without sleep it affects our moods and our productivity.
Make it a habit to go to bed at a decent hour and wake up at the same time each day. If you struggle with sleep, consider seeing a doctor or take some herbal medications to help you relax. I often use melatonin (an herbal sleep aid) especially when traveling. Everyone is different, but most people require seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
Rest is very important to overall health. A good quality Sabbath and nightly rest improve your quality of life. They also increase your overall sense of well-being.
One Decision at a Time
It is easy for us to think that we are stronger than most people and don’t really need the above things. “I can make it without sleep,” we think. “I can’t afford good food this week,” or “I don’t have time to sit down and eat a meal today,” are common ways of thinking. These inner conversations don’t lead to fulfilling lives that reflect the Kingdom.
What change will you make this week to take better care of your body and soul? Changes are made one decision at a time. Tell someone about it and ask them to hold you accountable. Or post your decision in the comments below or on the Missionary Life Facebook group.
Did you know that I’m starting a brand-new podcast? It will be released on June 6th. Sign up via the form below to be notified of new episodes.