The Implications of Being God’s Temple

Daily Devotional – Saturday, November 27, 2021

Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?

1 Corinthians 6:19 (NKJV)

One of the most fundamental and life-transforming Bible teachings is the one expressed in 1 Corinthians 6:19. Paul states, “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?”

The idea of our bodies being God’s temple has numerous spiritual implications that we need to examine and live by. God the Holy Spirit dwelling in us is the closest we can come to God in our human form.

This notion should fill us with godly fear and trembling. It cannot be business as usual when we realize that we do not even own ourselves. God does. How will we not take care of our bodies better and watch what we do to and with them when we realize God owns them?

Watch Your Thoughts

We will filter the thoughts we entertain in our minds. Our eyes will not watch television programmes and movies that God does not approve of. Instead, we will only meditate on wholesome, pure, noble, and elevating content.

Our choice of music will be the type that the owner of the temple will approve. Vulgar, obscene, and debasing lyrics will not have a place in our hearts. Not even the lifestyles of pop artistes will captivate us.

When we realize we are God’s dwelling place, we will watch our thoughts and words. Whatever comes out of our mouths will edify those who listen to us. We will not besmirch the reputations of other people.

Eat and Drink to the Glory of God

When God owns our bodies, we will choose wisely what we eat and drink. We cannot partake in alcohol and other strong drinks that numb our senses and dim our abilities to make decisions. Drugs and substance abuse will be a no-go zone.

The temple of God cannot consume unwholesome food. It cannot overindulge the appetite. Its mantra will be, “Therefore, whether I eat or drink, or whatever I do, I will do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Honouring the Temple’s Owner

People will desire to be around the temple of God because there is love, joy, and value in it. When we behave like the temple of God we are, we will lead many to our owner, God. We cannot be God’s temple and behave as if God does not exist.

What changes do you need to make in your attitude, thoughts, speech, and conduct now that you realize the implications of being God’s temple?

Prayer

Dear Father, forgive me for not representing You as Your temple. Help me to stand firm for you.