A Model of Faith and Health
The model above depicts the value of certain ‘Spiritual Exercises’ – many key principles of the Christian faith – and how they might impact on one’s health. For additional information about these 18 ‘Spiritual Exercises,’ visit the Spiritual Health and Fitness Assessment page.
A different model – the Life, Stress and Health Model – is also available and explained at the link to the left.
Understanding The Faith and Health Model
The area on the left of the triangle reflects a person’s growth in their faith and their corresponding beliefs and understanding of God and their relationship with Him. On the right side, one’s motivation to include faith in their life might initially be out of self-love and then, later, out of love for God. The more one loves God and is obedient to the principles found in the Bible, that person’s increasing love and knowledge of God will inspire him to spend more time in His presence. This will inevitably result in more “fruit” ( Galatians 5:22 ) in his life and a more satisfying and abundant life. ( John 10:9-10) An aspect of a more full life is good spiritual, emotional and physical health as is reflected in the center area. At the base of this triangle are Spiritual Exercises. There are many beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that will contribute to growth in a person’s faith and help a person become more like Jesus – God’s Son – taken from the verses in First Timothy found at the bottom of this page. The top part of the model suggests that a person will be better able to live his purpose in life (see the verse from Ephesians below) as he is more deeply grounded in his faith, is healthier and has more fruit in his life. This then, will glorify God and make him better know. And, we were all put on this earth to glorify God.
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“…Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness. Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important for it promises a reward in both this life and the next. This is true and everyone should accept it.” 1 Timothy 4:7-9 (New Living Translation – First Edition)
“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10
