Why you should prioritize your health… sharing a personal story

 My dad had a massive heart attack when I was 11 years old. By the time I turn 14 he suffered another heart attack and died. He was only 45 years old. I was the one who found him that day with my mom. I called 911 but it was too late. I’ll never forget that scene. It scarred my memory for life. 

My dad lived most of his life unhealthy, not only in food and lack of exercise but also in spirit. He was a preacher, author, speaker and intense debater with people which wasn’t great for his stress levels.

By the time he took his health more seriously it was too late. 

The sad thing is that is was preventable. His father, my Grandpapa, is still alive in his 100’s. 

Health matters so much. Our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health impacts every part of our lives (including our spouse and children). We aren’t to worship health as an idol but to be good stewards with our bodies as living temples of the Lord. 

We should also take our health seriously if we are parents. We should strive for holiness AND strive to be strong physically as caretakers of these precious souls we have been entrusted with. 

We teach our children how to live a life that honors God in word and deed through our example. It matters what we do, say, eat, drink, how we move and live. 

My relationship suffered deeply with my dad in his final years. I’m still trying to heal from the damage done to my young heart in those years. Sadly my memories of my dad are mostly painful. It didn’t have to be that way. He’s missed so much. And I know my brothers needed a dad. What happened has scarred them in their own ways as well. 

My goal as a mother is to be strong in faith, in holiness, in godliness as well as in my physical body so that I can raise my children AND live to see my grandchildren and great grandchildren. I pray often for that. 

If you are a mother reading this, prioritize your time with Jesus and with health. Not for vanity but for longevity and out of your love for your family. They need you. The next generation needs you. ❤️