Rick Warren's Daily DevotionalSample

Maintaining Physical Health

Love is exhausting. It's work to really love. Most people don't understand that their physical condition has a strong impact on their relationships and their ability to love.

What happens to your relationships when you're run down? Little issues become big problems when you're tired. You're more cranky, defensive, and critical when you're physically low.

What are some habits the Bible says will physically refresh you?

Rest - "It's senseless for you to work so hard from early morning till late at night. God wants you to get your proper rest." (Psalm 127:2 LB) Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is just get some rest. It's amazing how much better things look after a good night's sleep. Many of you are too tired to love your kids, too tired to love your husband, and too tired to love your wife.

Balanced Diet--"You made my body, Lord, now give me the sense to head your laws." (Psalm 119:73 LB) It's a no-brainer, but choosing fruits and vegetables over chips and cookies will give us more sustained energy.

Regular Exercise--"Honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:20 NIV) Our bodies were made for activity. In Bible times they didn't have to exercise; they walked everywhere, they did physical work. But most of us have sedentary lives, and we drive everywhere. Yet, you really only have two choices in life: fatigue or fitness. Fitness involves regular exercise.