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What the Bible Says About Living a Healthy, Balanced Life

In a world obsessed with physical fitness and productivity hacks, we often forget that true wellness starts within. The Bible’s view of health isn’t just about exercise and clean eating — it offers a holistic definition of health that includes spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being. It’s not about six-pack abs, but a well-ordered soul.
This is discussed in A Life of Excellence by Richard E. Simmons III, a well-known figure in men’s Christian ministry. His message is straightforward but profound: living by following God’s priorities will bring you balance rather than having it all. This blog explores what Scripture says about living a healthy, balanced life — and how spiritual and mental wellness for men is key to long-term peace and purpose.

10 Christian Books for Spiritual, Mental, and Emotional Health

1. A Life of Excellence by Richard E. Simmons III

Simmons examines what it truly means to live well—not just productively, but meaningfully—in this provocative book. He teaches that integrity, introspection, and purposeful living are necessary for true balance, drawing on biblical ideas and lessons learned from Christian discipleship. If you’re feeling overextended or empty despite your achievements, this book offers a compelling case for spiritual and mental wellness for men.

Where to buy:

Amazon

Goodreads

RichardESimmons3.com

2. The True Measure of a Man by Richard E. Simmons III

This book speaks to men who are looking for meaning, identity, and peace, and goes beyond superficial metrics of success. Simmons reveals how anxiety and burnout are caused by misaligned priorities and how a biblical worldview provides a stronger basis for leading a complete, healthy life.

Where to buy:

RichardESimmons3.com

Goodreads

Amazon

“Richard E. Simmons’ book (The True Measure of a Man) is so full of common sense and practicality. It is especially poignant and meaningful at such a critical time in our country’Ben Crenshaw, two-time Masters Tournament champion

“The True Measure of a Man is a book I wish I had written” … – Bob Buford, author of Halftime and Finishing Well

“The True Measure of a Man is a book for every man of every faith or no faith at all” – Fred Barnes, Fox News commentator

3. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero

According to Scazzero, it is impossible to be emotionally immature and spiritually mature at the same time. This book helps readers recognize emotional patterns, confront pain, and grow in Christian spiritual growth through honest self-awareness.

Where to buy:

Amazon

4. Reset: Living a Grace-Paced Life in a Burnout Culture by David Murray

Written for weary Christian men, this book explores how grace—not hustle—sets the pace of a healthy life. Murray offers practical tools and theology for men struggling to maintain spiritual and mental wellness in a high-speed world.

Where to buy:

Amazon

5. Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith

This book challenges our fixation with busyness and presents seven different types of rest (physical, emotional, creative, etc.) by fusing science and the Bible. It serves as a potent reminder to anyone struggling with burnout that rest is biblical, not lazy.

Where to buy:

Amazon

6. Liturgy of the Ordinary by Tish Harrison Warren

This book, which is quiet and exquisitely written, relates spiritual transformation to everyday routines. It serves as a wonderful reminder that Christian teachings for life influence our health and wholeness every day of the week, not just on Sundays.

Where to buy:

Amazon

7. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

Though not a Christian title, this book is a crucial resource for understanding how trauma impacts mental and physical health. For those engaged in Christian mentorship, it’s a valuable tool for navigating recovery and healing.

Where to buy:

Amazon

8. Spiritual Depression by Martyn Lloyd-Jones

A classic on the spiritual aspect of mental health. For believers who are experiencing imbalance, discouragement, and despair, Lloyd-Jones offers timeless wisdom.

Where to buy:

Amazon

9. Sensible Shoes by Sharon Garlough Brown

This story, which takes a fictional approach to spiritual development, centers on four women who are looking for spiritual rejuvenation and balance. It uses narrative to show how Christian discipleship develops over time.

Where to buy:

Amazon

10. Get Your Life Back by John Eldredge

In an overconnected and overstimulated world, Eldredge provides simple, everyday practices that revitalize the soul. A great pick for anyone seeking Gospel-centered living in a digital age.

Conclusion: Health Begins with the Heart

The world claims that output and appearance are what define health. However, according to Scripture, it’s about being whole on the inside as well. Christian men can reclaim a balanced, busy life through prayer, rest, introspection, and faith-based leadership.

As Richard E. Simmons III reminds us, the lives that are most firmly grounded in timeless truth are the healthiest, not the loudest. These books will assist you in rearranging your life to focus on the things that really matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Christian definition of health?

Health is a whole-person concept — spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical — rooted in alignment with God’s truth.

Why does the Bible emphasize balance?

Scripture teaches us to work and rest, strive and trust, think and pray. A healthy life reflects this rhythm.

What helps men maintain spiritual and mental wellness?

Start with daily Scripture, wise mentorship, and trusted books like A Life of Excellence by Richard E. Simmons III.

 

 

 

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