Well-being

SHALOM!

God desires wholeness for us in every area of life.

Zeno L. Charles-Marcel & Peter N. Landless

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SHALOM!

Q: Since COVID my life has been a mess, and I haven’t been able to get back on track. But I’m determined to fully commit in 2025 and beyond, until Jesus returns. How should I move forward?

A: COVID-19 has disrupted many lives, but the new year traditionally offers an opportunity to reflect on God’s blessings and renew our commitments. We commend your determination to move forward. God desires wholeness for us in every area of life (biblical shalom), and He is able to provide all we need to achieve it (Eze. 36:26, 27), starting today or any day of the year.

Seek God’s kingdom first (Matt. 6:33). Surrender to Him, trust in His promises, and pray for His Holy Spirit to bear His fruit in your life (Gal. 5:22, 23).

Prioritize physical health by adopting a whole-food, plant-based diet, and limiting processed, sugar-laden, and salty foods. Exercise four to five times a week, aiming for such activities as walking, swimming, or an active sport. Get seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night with a consistent routine. Drink plenty of water (eight-plus glasses daily). Schedule annual health assessments and necessary screenings to stay proactive in your wellness.

God desires wholeness for us in every area of life.

For cognitive and emotional health, engage in activities that nourish your spirit, such as journaling, painting, or gardening. Reframe challenges as growth opportunities and focus on the positive. Explore your beliefs about life’s purpose and avoid mental “junk food.” Read enriching books, take online courses, or learn new skills to keep your mind active. Renew your mind by actively changing negative thought patterns (Rom. 12:2; Phil. 4:8). Set boundaries on screen time and take breaks to avoid mental fatigue. Practice daily gratitude by listing three things you’re thankful for. If needed, seek emotional support from a therapist or counselor.

For relational health, connect regularly with family and friends, spend quality time together, and address unresolved issues. Build healthy relationships that respect boundaries. Engage in a small group, volunteer, or participate in community service to foster a sense of belonging and connection.

For environmental health, declutter, simplify, and beautify your living space. Embrace such eco-friendly practices as recycling, reducing waste, and using natural and biodegradable products. Regularly spend time outdoors to reconnect with God’s awesome creation.

Nourish your spiritual health by dedicating daily time for Bible reading, prayer, and reflection. Honor the Sabbath as a day of rest to strengthen your relationship with God and others. Bless others through kindness, charitable acts, and supporting your church’s mission. Memorize and meditate on scriptures that promote peace and well-being.

Cultivate Shalom:

Peace with God: Embrace God’s purpose and seek His guidance daily.

Peace with others: Seek out, share reconciliation, and forgive those who’ve hurt you.

Peace with self: Internalize your identity in Christ, recognizing that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19). 

May you prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers, and remember, you are loved with an everlasting love (Jer. 31:3). SHALOM!

Zeno L. Charles-Marcel & Peter N. Landless

Zeno L. Charles-Marcel, a board-certified internist, is director of Adventist Health Ministries at the General Conference.

Peter N. Landless, a board-certified nuclear cardiologist and Adventist Health Ministries emeritus of the General Conference, is also a board-certified internist.

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