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Many opportunities to serve through physical labor present themselves each day, whether at home, school or Sabbath services. Since the Bible states in the Proverbs that the “glory of young men is their strength†(20:29) and says a young woman “girds herself with strength,†and “strengthens her arms†(31:17, New King James Version), teenagers are especially able to help others through manual labor.
While it may seem simple, many have never learned how to lift objects correctly, which is one of the reasons millions suffer from back pain. You do not have to be one of them.
- Always bend your knees and hips, and keep your spine straight when picking up an object. Your leg muscles are much stronger than your back muscles, so by using them to lift, you avoid causing your back harm.
- Maintain upright posture when lifting an object. Looking straight ahead while bending will help.
- Hold an object close to your body rather than at arm’s length.
- Avoid twisting your body while carrying an object. Instead, face only the direction you are walking.
If you learn to properly pick up objects, you will be able to use your strong arms and back to assist family, friends and neighbors for years to come. Just remember, lift with your legs!