The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has called on Christians and the public to prioritise healthy living as an essential part of fulfilling their God-ordained purpose.
In a series of devotional messages titled “Eat Right,” “Physical Exercise is Profitable,” and “Avoid Gluttony,” the 83-year-old cleric stressed the inseparable connection between physical wellness and spiritual vitality.
The revered pastor noted that many health issues plaguing believers today are “self-inflicted,” arising from poor dietary habits, late-night heavy meals, excessive sugar consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle.
“Don’t eat junk foods that endanger your health and then run to God for healing when the doctor’s report comes out,” Pastor Adeboye warned.
“You should glorify Him with your body by eating only foods that will keep you healthy.”
The cleric encouraged believers to plant their own gardens where possible, in a bid to avoid chemically preserved foods.
“Natural fruits and vegetables are God’s design for nourishment,” he said.
You Can’t Pray At Night After Eating Junk Food – Says Pastor Adeboye
According to Adeboye, the impact of unhealthy eating extends beyond the body to one’s spiritual life.
“You can’t eat junk and expect to wake up at night to pray effectively. Food should nourish, not destroy,” the RCCG General Overseer cautioned.
Drawing from 1 Timothy 4:8, he reiterated that while spiritual growth is primary, physical discipline must not be neglected.
Pastor Adeboye also warned against leading what he described as a “soft life” that lacks physical activity.
“A soft life without exercise endangers your health. Don’t let comfort cut your life short,” he said.
Sharing a glimpse of his personal lifestyle, Adeboye disclosed that walking remains a daily habit, even during prayer.
“I walk while praying. It improves my health, mental alertness, and productivity,” he added.
Gluttony Is A Spiritual Trap – Adeboye insists
In his devotional message titled “Avoid Gluttony,” Pastor Adeboye condemned excessive eating, describing it as a snare from the devil and a shortcut to ill health.
“Overeating makes you weak and burdens your body with excess digestion. Gluttony is a trap of the devil—it makes you physically and spiritually vulnerable,” he warned.
He backed this with scientific reference, citing an experiment which showed that overfed rats became more prone to illness than those moderately fed.
Pastor Adeboye also underlined the role of fasting in maintaining both spiritual and physical strength. He recalled embarking on a 40-day fast in 1984, which he described as pivotal to his spiritual development.
“Christians who are serious about their destiny don’t eat every day. Despite my age, I still fast because I want to finish strong,” he declared.
The messages collectively offer a holistic view of Christian living. Adeboye urged believers to treat their bodies as temples of God, combining spiritual discipline with physical care.
“Healthy habits, moderation, and obedience are key to fulfilling divine destinies,” the revered cleric concluded.