Day 4: Vitamin D
Often during the winter months in Ohio, we can go weeks without seeing the Sun. Sometimes it seems like we are stuck in a state of perpetual cloudiness. Not only does this make for dreary days, but it actually has a negative effect on many people’s mental health. Doctors label it seasonal affective disorder, or SAD for short. I am not sure there has ever been a more applicable acronym. The sun provides us with not only warmth and light, but it provides a vitamin that we desperately need in Vitamin D. Here are the key reasons that we need that Vitamin D
according to multiple studies and a lot of research:
Supports Bone Health
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are critical for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.
A deficiency can lead to conditions like rickets in children and osteoporosis or osteomalacia in adults.
Boosts Immune Function
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system, helping the body fight infections and reduce inflammation.
It may reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases and respiratory infections.
Enhances Mental Health
Low levels of vitamin D are associated with mood disorders such as depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Sunlight exposure can improve mood by increasing vitamin D levels and releasing serotonin.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
Vitamin D may help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
May Reduce the Risk of Certain Diseases
Studies suggest that adequate vitamin D levels are linked to a lower risk of certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, and chronic diseases.
So, when I tell you to go touch grass, this is why! We need to get outside and bask in the warmth and vitamin of the sun! Let the serotonin flow!
Now, as we talked about yesterday, in our spiritual lives, the presence of God is the sun in our process, and the presence of God is our spiritual Vitamin D! In our pursuit of a fruitful Christian life, the presence of God is so vital. Look at what Jesus says in John 8:
John 8: 12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Whoever follows Jesus will have the light of life! We need the presence of God in our lives to give us what we need. Honestly, it is what every person ever born longs for, but the adversary has done a good job of fooling us into thinking there are better ways to get that Spiritual Vitamin.
One song comes to my mind that was a little before my time but very well known, sung by Bill Withers. Some of you knew it immediately.
Ain't no sunshine when she's gone
It's not warm when she's away.
Ain't no sunshine when she's gone
And she's always gone too long
Anytime she goes away.
It doesn’t matter how great your earthly relationships are, they cannot give you the light of life that we are truly desiring in our hearts. It’s like trying to get all the vitamin D you need by drinking whole milk, that’s not going to do the trick, look it up and you’ll see! The light of life is only found in the presence of God, and that presence is available through the Holy Spirit. Truthfully, that is what this whole time of fasting and praying is intended for. To consecrate, or separate for the work of God, and make ourselves available for the Spirit of God to dwell fully in our hearts and minds. Paul tells us in Corinthians that we can be a host for the presence of God.
1 Corinthians 6: 19 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, 20 for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
If you’re spending all your time and energy in the rat race of work, looking for the fulfillment in an earthly relationship, or playing whack-a-mole with your desires, then you are missing out on the light of life. Even if you have all the successes that this world could afford, your soul will still have the longing that you can’t explain.
Today during your prayer time, specifically ask God for His presence in your life. He may reveal some things that are hindering that in your life. Maybe rearranging your priorities is in order, and you may need to seek His forgiveness and His help for that. Here’s one thing I know from scripture and experience, you will not regret making God’s presence a priority. Try it, I promise, it is a vitamin that you need to live your best life. A fruitful life is a life lived in the presence of God!