“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19–20)
Pregnancy is a beautiful, sacred assignment. I know your heart is already overflowing with joy and prayers for your baby, and that’s beautiful. But don’t forget there’s someone else who needs your prayers, care, and attention too. That someone is you.
This season of carrying life calls for intentional care, because the vessel God has chosen is you. And your body is not just flesh and bone. It’s the temple of the Holy Spirit. It’s where God’s Spirit lives… and for now, it’s also where your baby lives.
That’s double purpose right there.
Honoring God with Your Body in Pregnancy
Pregnancy is not a time to neglect your health with the excuse of cravings or fatigue. One of the ways you honour God is by honouring your body, the sacred temple that is partnering with God, to form another life. As exciting and overwhelming as this season can be, it’s not the time to throw caution to the wind or give in to every urge unchecked.
Cravings during pregnancy are absolutely normal, but they should never rule you. I’ve heard of cravings that go beyond food; talk about dust, sand, clay, crayons, and other weird things. While these things may feel like real desires in the moment, you don’t have to give in to it; you have help. The Holy Spirit lives inside you, and He can help you take charge of your body and emotions.
Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:27 says “I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should”
Let your appetite be subject to the Holy Spirit. Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you surrender your will to every passing desire. It is not a license to roam around your neighborhood sniffing out what’s cooking and asking for everything you crave. 😅 It may sound funny, but it’s important. Carrying life calls for self-control, even with food.
3 John 1:2 says “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” This is one scripture every believer ought to hold close. If you’ve ever questioned whether God truly desires your healing or well-being, this verse settles it once and for all. God doesn’t just care about your spiritual life; He desires for you to thrive in every area, including your physical health.
In pregnancy, this means being wise and deliberate about what you eat, how you move, how you rest, and what you allow into your heart and mind.
Ways to Care for Your Body During Pregnancy
Eat with Purpose, Not Just Cravings
- Nourish your body with foods that support the growth of your baby and strengthen you for the journey ahead. ‘Once in a blue moon’, it’s okay to indulge, but be mindful. Aim for fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins, whole grains and other natural foods.
- Balance Is wisdom when eating: “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” (Philippians 4:5). Don’t overfeed yourself under the disguise of “eating for two.” Overeating during pregnancy can lead to complications like gestational diabetes, excessive weight gain, or even a baby that grows too large to be delivered vaginally, which could put both of you at risk.
- I personally aim to eat just enough for myself and my baby. In fact, I often lose some weight in the first trimester while still nourishing my body with what matters most.
- Whether you’re eating a full plate or nibbling small portions, let your eating be an act of faith, not indulgence.
Supplements
If you have no personal reservations about medication, take the supplements and prenatal vitamins your doctor prescribes. They’re not just for you, they are for the healthy development of your baby’s brain, bones, and immune system.
If, however, you’re more comfortable going the natural route, then be very intentional about eating nutrient-dense foods. Your meals should be rich in vitamins, iron, folic acid, and protein. Make fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and whole foods your best friends.
Remember: this is a season for building, not just bearing. What you put into your body is going into your baby too.
Stay Active, Even If It’s Gentle
- Walking, stretching, and light exercises can help your body stay flexible, reduce stress, and prepare you for delivery. You’re not striving for fitness perfection, you’re making room for strength and stamina.
- Even dancing during worship counts, your baby’s first praise session in the womb! I’ve heard that exercise during pregnancy can actually help your baby get into the right position for birth. In fact, it may encourage your baby to turn head-down, facing your back, and begin descending into the birth canal; just as your body starts preparing for delivery. Some even say it can help shorten labor. Still, if you’re looking to avoid a C-section and support a smoother delivery, investing some time in moderate, pregnancy-safe exercises might be worth it.
Rest Without Guilt
- Rest is not laziness, it’s obedience. Be gracious to yourself and embrace rest whenever you can. You’re not being idle, you’re aligning with divine wisdom. You are doing holy work, even when you’re lying down. Carrying life is not a small feat, you are working hard, even in stillness.
- Many mothers find that the first three months after delivery, what’s often called the fourth trimester, can be even more demanding than the nine months of pregnancy. So take those naps now. Slow down when your body asks you to. Listen to its whispers before they become shouts.
Again, Speak Life Over Your Body: Your body is not “broken” or “damaged” because of pregnancy changes. Speak kindly to yourself. Say things like:
“My body is strong.”
“God is helping me carry this child in peace.”
“I honor this vessel that’s honoring God.”
You Are Co-Laboring with God
This is not just a biological process, it’s a spiritual partnership. God is using your body to carry out His plans for another human being. Every stretch mark, every ache, every yawn is part of the testimony. So, care for yourself like someone deeply loved and chosen, because you are.
Let your wellness be worship.
Let your meals be offerings.
Let your rest be trust.
And let your strength be drawn from the knowledge that your body is God’s temple and He takes delight in how you’re using it for His glory.
