Introduction
The term “self-care” has gained significant attention lately. Amid rising levels of anxiety and depression, it’s become a focal point. But what does self-care mean, especially from a spiritual standpoint?
The Fluid Nature of Self-Care
Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. When I counsel people, I don’t ask, “How do you care for yourself?” Instead, I inquire, “What fills your tank?” Essentially, that’s what self-care is all about.
The Biblical Perspective: Jesus and Self-Care
Let’s consider the story of Jesus and the disciples in a boat during a storm. Jesus chooses to sleep. Why? He needed rest. He needed to recharge. This story teaches us that even Jesus took time for self-care.
The Importance of Sabbath
God instructs us to honor the Sabbath. Jesus also reminds us that the Sabbath was made for man. So, taking time off is not just a good idea; it’s a divine command.
My Personal Approach to Self-Care
For me, self-care involves daily activities that rejuvenate me. Sometimes it’s a short meditation session. Other times, it’s a coffee date with a friend or a motorcycle ride. The key is to do something that fills my tank.
The Dual Aspect: Me and We
It’s vital to remember that sometimes we are the tank that needs filling, and at other times, we help fill someone else’s tank. It’s a balance between “me” and “we.”
Nourishing the Spirit and Soul
We possess both a spirit and a soul. The soul connects us to God, while the spirit links us to others. Both need nourishment. Therefore, taking care of both aspects makes us fully alive in Christ.
Prayer as the Ultimate Self-Care
Lastly, let’s not forget the power of prayer. It’s perhaps the best form of self-care for a disciple of Jesus. It nourishes both the spirit and the soul, keeping us aligned with God’s will.
Takeaway
Today, engage in some form of self-care. Thank God for the things that fill your tank and ask for His guidance in filling the tanks of others. Remember, “Cast your cares on Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
7 Responses
Thank you for the reminder that “rest” IS self-care. Some of us were raised to believe “rest” was “idleness that comes from the enemy”. If we weren’t moving during daylight hours we were dangerously in the devils workshop. It has been a challenge for me to “gently accept” the truth that rest IS self-care. And that doing something “fun” (filling g my tank) is approved by God. I’m grate full for the Academy lessons on these issues. Liberty from laws is sweet!
I am with you on this one. Learning self care has bright so much healing!
Self care is important when dealing with illness. I do self care every morning when I sip coffee and read God’s word. This starts my day off in the direct of God
That was so meaningful. Self-care is so vital for mental health,physical health,and spiritual health. Sometimes we get so caught up in everyday distractions and our challenges that we forget how important it is to take care of ourselves so that we can help others through friendships and spiritual healing. 🙏❤️
I am with you on this one. Learning self care has brought so much healing!
THANK YOU for the reminder of self care .like pastor Matt the best self care for me walk and drive connecting with My lord that’s my self care .I try to have healthy habits and I make it
a point every day to take 3 minutes of my day and breath .
Gosh this is so important and something I fail to do. Although t recently I’ve implemented Saturday as my Sabbath day and I try really hard to say no to things on that day. In reality though I’m a people pleasing, boundaryless, doer of the word person who struggles to say no. Therefore my tank runs dry and I end up sick (like now). You’d think I’d learn by now lol. Gods still working on me though.