Day 11 — Taking Care of Your Body

“Beloved, I pray that in every way you may prosper and enjoy good health, as your soul also prospers.”

— 3 John 1:2 (BSB)

The apostle John wrote a letter to his friend Gaius, and he started with a kind prayer: “I pray that in every way you may prosper and enjoy good health, as your soul also prospers.” John cared about his friend’s body and his soul. God cares about both too.

As you go through puberty, taking care of your body becomes more important, because your body is changing in ways that need new kinds of care.

Sweat and body odor. During puberty, you start to sweat more, especially under your arms, and that sweat can start to smell. That’s normal! It means your body is growing up. Now’s a good time to:

• Shower or bathe regularly, especially after exercise.
• Use deodorant every day. Ask your mom to help you choose one.
• Wear clean clothes, including clean socks and underwear every day.

Oily skin and pimples. Your skin might get oilier, and you might start getting pimples (also called acne), especially on your face. Almost every teenager gets them! Wash your face gently every morning and night, and try not to pick at pimples. If they really bother you, a parent or doctor can help.

Oily hair. Your hair might get greasy faster, so you may need to wash it more often.

Your period. On your period, change your pad regularly, every few hours, and wash your hands.

Sleep, food and exercise. Your growing body needs a lot of rest, good food, plenty of water and time to move and play. Taking care of these helps your body, your mood and even your skin.

Taking care of your body isn’t vanity. It’s not about looking perfect or impressing people. It’s about stewarding the body God gave you, treating it as the gift it is.

And here’s a secret: when you feel clean and healthy, you usually feel more confident too.

If you’re not sure how to do some of these things, that’s okay! Nobody is born knowing. Ask your mom or another woman you trust to show you.

Think about it: Which of these ways of caring for your body do you already do well? Which do you need to start?

Try this: Make a simple morning and evening routine for taking care of your body, like washing your face, deodorant and brushing your teeth. Ask your mom to help you.

Dear God, thank You for caring about my body and my soul. Help me take good care of the body You gave me as it grows and changes. Help me be healthy, clean and strong, not to show off, but to honor You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.