Scriptures About Health and Wellness in the Old Testament

In the Bible, we find many references that show God’s interest in our overall wellbeing. Reading and meditating the scriptures about health and wellness is a great reminder that God cares for us.   

Wellness is a holistic integration of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Many quotes from the Bible refer to living a healthy and useful life with God’s help.

Here are some verses from the Old Testament that shed light on God’s perspective on health and wellness:

A cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22.

Mental wellbeing influences the health of the whole body. There is also scientific proof that worry and anxiety are not good for health. This modern thinking only confirms what God’s people have known for centuries.  

Say to him: ‘Long life to you! Good health to you and your household! And good health to all that is yours! 1 Samuel 25:6.

In Biblical times, wishing long life and good health is a common way of greeting friends and family. Even now in some cultures enquiring about health is the common first line of conversation. It is possible that the western way of toasting to one another’s health is passed on from Biblical times.

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. Proverbs 3:7-8.

This is also a practical verse from the Bible. It also emphasized how health and wellbeing are related to lifestyle. The verse is also fully in line with modern healthcare professionals. It confirms that a positive attitude, a key for a healthy life is the best thing we can do for our health, relationships, and careers.

But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord. Jeremiah 30:17.

It is an encouraging scripture that God is aware of our need and is ready to show His power.

At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. Daniel 1:15.

A great verse that demonstrates the importance of the right food and dietary practice. In fact, this scripture is now the basis of a popular diet called Daniel Diet.

Worship the Lord your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you. Exodus 23:25

This verse is an example of scriptures where obedience to God’s commands goes hand in hand with His promise of blessings and our health and wellbeing.