If I had a pill that promised to add years to your life, you’d probably pay a lot of money for it. But what if I told you that, as a Christian, you already have the key to a long life and that it’s free?

God has given all of the principles for health management in his Word, the Bible. The Bible is the owner’s manual for your body. As David says, “You made my body, Lord; now give me sense to heed your laws” (Psalm 119:73 LB). And in Deuteronomy, it says, “These instructions are not mere words — they are your life! By obeying them you will enjoy a long life in the land …” (Deuteronomy 32:47 NLT). God says, “If you do what I tell you to do with your health, you will enjoy a long life.”

Our key verse today says, “Keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life” (Proverbs 3:1 NIV). What are some of those commands? “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing …” (Proverbs 3:5-10 NIV).

These verses highlight some factors that you probably don’t think about but that will keep you healthy: tranquility, trust in God, integrity, humility, and generosity. These things will cause your health to be better, because your physical health is influenced by your spiritual health.

Over the next few days we’ll look at some specific things the Bible says you should do for good health. For today, take some time to meditate on Proverbs 3:1-10 and ask God to show you ways you can grow in tranquility, trust, integrity, humility, and generosity.

Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., one of America’s largest and most influential churches. Rick is author of the New York Times bestseller The Purpose Driven Life. His book, The Purpose Driven Church, was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for pastors.

This devotional © 2012 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.