“Worship the LORD your God, and His blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you…” [Exodus 23:25]
The devil is not our only enemy. In reality, we also wrestle with the sovereign power of our own will, which God [YHWH] has given us, and the power of sin that influences our decisions.
Moreover, many illnesses are caused by the way we live, not only by demonic attacks. For instance, countless people suffer from health problems simply because of systemic dehydration, which affects nearly every organ. In fact, our bodies—temples of the Holy Spirit—are made up of about 60% water. This percentage varies slightly based on age, but its importance never changes.
Water: God’s Gift for Our Health
God created water with a specific purpose. However, instead of drinking water, many choose sugary drinks or alcohol. In some cases, as in the United Kingdom, a bottle of water can cost more than a bottle of soda (soft drink). This shows how easily we choose what harms us over what heals us.
Drinking water regularly brings incredible benefits. It supports brain function, helps maintain a healthy weight, improves energy, and flushes out toxins. If these toxins remain, they may contribute to illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, fatigue, stress, and even cancer. On the other hand, some illnesses are spiritual in nature. These require deliverance through the name of Christ Jesus.
Practical Wisdom and Spiritual Obedience
Often, people confuse thirst with hunger, which leads to overeating and further health problems. As a result, obesity and related diseases grow. Most headaches, for example, are due to dehydration, yet people immediately reach for painkillers instead of water. Why not, as Scripture says in Genesis 21:14, carry “a skin of water” wherever you go?
Of course, too much water can also be harmful. Drinking excessive amounts can lead to low sodium in the blood, a condition called hyponatremia. Therefore, the best guidance is to listen to your body. Drink when thirsty, and watch the colour of your urine—it should be light yellow or clear. If it is dark, hydrate accordingly, unless medication affects the colour.
Faith, Health, and Responsibility
The enemy cannot harm without God’s permission. As we see in Job 1:12, Satan needed permission before attacking Job. This truth reminds us to do our part in obedience to God.
So then, eat healthy food, drink enough water daily (2–3 litters recommended), and care for your body with faith. At the same time, keep your focus on spiritual health. Pray, worship, and declare God’s promises over your life. “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” [Proverbs 17:22].
Ultimately, as Joshua 1:9 declares, “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” This same promise applies to you today.
Amen.
Further Reading
3 John 1:2; Philippians 4:6–7; Proverbs 4:20–22; Proverbs 17:22; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 30:2; Matthew 11:28; James 5:14–15; Jeremiah 30:17; Ecclesiastes 3:1–8; James 5:16; Psalm 23:1–4; Proverbs 3:5–8; Psalm 6:2; Psalm 41:3; Wisdom 16:12