I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. (Rom 12:1)
Health Tip No.1 Motivation for Change
By Dr Ross V McKenzie
13/09/2026
Most people struggle to make healthy lifestyle choices. But there is one thing above all else that should serve as our greatest motivator for looking after our health. It is found in Romans 12:1:
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”
Jesus said:
“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Mat 16:24)
Levitical sacrifices were to be presented spotless and without blemish (Lev 22:20–21). This symbolised Jesus’ sinless body and necessitated a gift to the Lord from the very best of the flock. Second best was not an acceptable gift for God.
Taking up our cross or offering our lives as a living sacrifice, therefore, involves giving to the Lord our very best, including the healthiest body we can possibly give Him. We do this willingly because of His great mercy.
I would therefore encourage you from the words of Paul, “whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Cor 10:31)
