
Eating healthy often feels impossible. What if even in our busy ministry lives, we can approach our health in a way that glorifies God?
By Mark Satterfield
Imagine this—you and I are sitting in a corner of a coffee shop. We’ve just finished catching up on life, and the conversation turns to something pastors rarely talk about but often struggle with—our health. You admit that between the demands of family and ministry, eating healthy feels like an impossible task. I smile and nod, because I’ve been there too.
“You’re not alone,” I say. “But what if I told you even in our busy ministry lives, we can approach our health in a way that glorifies God?”
Health as worship: A biblical perspective
I pull out my Bible and turn to Romans 12:1, a passage you know well: “Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship” (CSB).
This verse reminds us caring for our bodies is an act of worship. It’s not just about eating well or staying active. It’s about honoring God with every part of ourselves, including how we treat our physical health. What we eat, how we rest, and how we manage stress are all ways we can offer our bodies as living sacrifices to Him.
Understanding the real struggles
Our health isn’t just about physical wellness; it’s about stewardship. As pastors, you and I are quick to encourage others to glorify God in their daily lives. But do we consider how our own health choices fit into that picture?
“Our health isn’t just about physical wellness; it’s about stewardship.” — @sattymark Share on XIt’s not about being perfect but about being intentional.
“Let’s be honest,” I say, “the rhythm of a pastor’s life makes healthy eating tough.”
You laugh, probably thinking about last Sunday’s meeting that included a burger bar, chips, and cookies. I grin. “Between those church meals, late-night meetings, and the constant call to care for others, it’s no wonder we fall into convenience over intentionality.”
Practical steps to care for your health
I pause, letting the truth settle. “But what if I told you we can navigate these challenges with some simple, manageable steps?” I grab a napkin and start writing down a few simple ideas, sliding it across the table to you.
1. Plan ahead
Meal prep isn’t just for fitness fanatics. Take a couple of hours each week to prepare healthy snacks and meals. When your fridge is stocked with good options, you’re less likely to grab a bag of chips, a candy bar, and a soda.
2. Mindful eating
Church meals don’t have to wreck your health. Start with the healthier dishes and keep portions small on the heavier stuff. Moderation is key.
3. Find support
You know how we preach about community? Apply that to your health too. Maybe your spouse, a friend, or even someone in your congregation can help keep you on track. Support and accountability make a world of difference.
4. Manage stress wisely
Stress is a killer for healthy habits. When the weight of counseling sessions or leadership meetings feels heavy, it’s tempting to grab a comfort food or skip exercise. Recognizing stress triggers and having a plan—like praying, choosing to fast, a quick walk, a short drive, can keep us from turning to food for relief.
“Recognizing stress triggers and having a plan—like praying, choosing to fast, a quick walk, a short drive, can keep us from turning to food for relief.” — @sattymark Share on XMy journey: Lessons from the trenches
You ask if I’ve personally figured this out, and I smile. “Not perfectly,” I admit, “but I’ve learned a few things.”
Morning workouts have become a non-negotiable for me. Even on busy days, starting with exercise—mine is lifting weights—makes me feel centered. It sets the tone for everything else.
I used to wear my lack of sleep like a badge of honor. But I’ve learned that if I don’t get at least seven hours, I’m not the person—or the pastor—I want to be.”
For me, counseling sessions, Wednesday nights after midweek services, and important committee and leadership meetings are stress triggers. Those moments used to leave me feeling drained, especially if there were several in one week. But now, I plan for them—getting plenty of sleep the night before, starting my day with a morning workout, ensuring my meals are prepped and ready, and scheduling intentional breaks between meetings to stay fresh and focused.
Start small: A new year, a new approach
January is the perfect time for this conversation. It’s a season of new beginnings. It’s not about drastic resolutions but small, intentional steps. Start with small changes. Swap soda for water. Take a 30-minute walk a couple of times a week. You don’t have to overhaul your life; just move in the right direction.
I point back to the napkin, now filled with scribbles. “And remember this verse,” I say, tapping Romans 12:1. “Caring for our bodies is an act of worship, and small steps can lead to big changes.”
Final encouragement
As our coffee cups empty and the conversation winds down, I look you in the eye. “You’re called to lead, to serve, to pour out your life for others. But remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself—your body, your mind—isn’t selfish; it’s stewardship.”
You smile, and I can tell the conversation has sparked something. As you tuck the napkin into your pocket, I pray this moment becomes a turning point—not just for your health but for your view of it as part of worship.
For permission to republish this article, contact Marissa Postell Sullivan.
