Wednesday June 8, 2022

Topic: Physical Development.

Scripture Reference: Daniel 1:10-16.

Exposition:

Physical development refers to advancement in motor skills or one’s ability to use and control their bodies. Physical development is dependent on a lot of factors. Some of these factors are diet, exercise, protection from injury, rest amongst others. These factors are very important, especially in the early childhood stages. Physical development impairment at the early childhood stage can affect one’s growth and cause serious defects to one’s physical appearance.

In Daniel 1:10-16, we notice that the young Hebrew men were careful with their choice of food. They did not want to defile themselves with the King’s food. They opted for a healthier, ‘righteous and undefiled’ choice. This proved helpful as they saw more physical improvement in themselves compared to the people who chose to eat from the king’s table. Food is very important to physical development. It releases nutrients required for growth and proper functioning of the body system. Failure to eat well balanced meals can lead to several health defects. Diseases such as kwashiorkor, rickets, scurvy, pellagra amongst others are due to nutrient deficiencies in the body system.

Exercises are also very important to physical development. A sedentary lifestyle doubles the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, colon cancer amongst others. Exercises improve muscle strength and boost endurance. They deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues to make your cardiovascular system more efficient.

Safety and protection from injuries is also very important to physical development. People who work in high-risk accident environments ensure that they stay with safety protocols. Our daily lives must be marked by responsible behaviour to avoid accidents that may leave us with life threatening or changing physical injuries. Rest is also very important to physical development. It rejuvenates body and mind, regulates one’s mood and also helps with memory functionality. There is the tendency for young people to forgo rest thinking they have enough energy. This leads to accumulated stress, which can have dire mental consequences. Go for that rest! Take that leave from work!

Prayer Guide: May we be protected from injuries and accidents.

that may impair our physical development.

Memory Verse For This Week:

Luke 2:52 (ESV) – “And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favour with God and man.”