Often, the body as God’s temple is referenced for promoting better diet and exercise. And of course, we should be good stewards of our bodies. It’s a no-brainer that indulgence, sloth, drugs, tobacco and alcohol are problematic; however, the verse from which the phrase comes is related to sexual sin. It’s the warning Paul uses to close his thoughts on sexual immorality. Take a look:

“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? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NKJV

Exercise and a good diet can be beneficial (and honoring to God), but the diet of the heart and mind should top the priority list. It’s the place where lust begins and desire is cultivated. What’s fed into the mind, takes up residence in God’s dwelling place; the heart. And the part about being “bought at a price” isn’t just a word-picture, it’s for real. Jesus has already paid for the temple, we’re just the caretakers.

Perhaps you need to pause and do a walk-through of the temple. Inappropriate visual habits, unhealthy emotional bonds or other struggles can be conquered through the power of Christ, and it starts with prayer. In Him there is forgiveness and the strength to overcome (Ephesians 2:8-10).