Commentary from Kirstyn Mayden on I Believe.com:
As we serve others in ministry, at home, or in the workplace, self-care is an often neglected area. We “know” that we should take better care of ourselves, but there is a myriad of reasons why we are not consistent in doing so. Lack of time, energy, or motivation are a few reasons why we do not fully invest in strengthening and caring for ourselves. While we continue to give and pour into others, it is essential that we do not give from an empty cup. When we invest in strengthening our body, mind, and spirit, we will live fuller, balanced, and more joyful lives. Most importantly, we can better serve those we are called to serve.
God is not anti-self love. The Bible tells us to "love your neighbor as yourself." If you struggling with self-love, you will struggle with having the time and energy to love others well.
Practicing self-care and self-love involves a recognition that we need God to lead, sustain and guide us each step of the way. As we are more intentional about surrendering our anxieties and burdens to God, we can experience greater peace and rest.
1. Prioritize Quality Time with God
“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” (Mark 1:35)
A big part of maintaining healthy self-care is pausing and committing time to having focused prayer. Jesus was intentional about prioritizing spending time with God, His Father. Before the demands and responsibilities of each day begin, I am filled with God’s word in my morning devotion time. The morning is often my only chance to spend uninterrupted time with God to gain clarity, wisdom, and give thanks. In this brief quiet time, my mind is renewed, refreshed, and strengthened for the day.
2. Care for Yourself as You’d Care for a Friend
“The second is this: Love your neighbor, as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:31)
As we are attentive and caring for those we are entrusted to serve, our personal, mental, and spiritual health should be given the same delicate care. When we abandon caring for our personal needs, we can remain exhausted, overwhelmed, and depleted. There are seasons where I have served from a feeling of obligation or routine because I was not being ministered to. Sound familiar? [read more]
The other versus:
- Remind Yourself Who God Made You to Be
- Reconnect to God’s Spirit in You
- Surrender to God’s Sweet Rest
- Learn That It’s Ok to Have Limits
- Steward Your Health and Resources
- Renew Your Mind and Release Burdens
- Rely on God to Fill You with Strength
- Know What Brings You Joy
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