10 Life-Giving Truths About Self-Care

Caring for ourselves can seem selfish, but if we don’t then we can’t sustainably serve those around us. Self-care should in no way negate Jesus’ call to self-denial nor be an excuse not to work hard, rather it helps maintain our resilience and perseverance in the midst of the challenges of serving others. It’s not just a means to an end though; God simply loves us and our well-being matters to him. So, here are 10 resolutions to help us stay well and stay faithful plus some suggested verses to meditate on:

1. I am a child of God. I am unconditionally loved. My identity does not lie in my achievements. I will rest in God’s love and not strive for other’s approval (1 John 3:1, John 1:12, Rom. 8:15–16).

2. I am sent by God. God doesn’t make mistakes. My life has purpose. I will trust Him when I’m not sure what’s going on (John 20:21, Rom. 8:28, Ephesians 2:8–10).

3. I don’t have to hold it all together; that’s Jesus’ job. It’s OK to not always feel OK. I will get help for my spiritual, emotional and practical needs (Col. 1:17, 1 Cor. 1:26–29, 1 Sam. 23:15–16).

4. Rest is good. Jesus rested. I have permission to rest. In fact God commands me to rest. I will plan to rest (Matt. 11:28–30, John 4:6, Ex. 20:8–11).

5. I was made to enjoy a relationship with God. I will daily spend time reading the Bible, worshiping, praying and whatever else helps me to connect with God (Ps. 63:1–8, John 15:1–8, James 4:8a).

6. I am also made for relationships with other people. I will intentionally invest in friendships, be honest and give and receive support in my church, small group or team (Prov. 27:9, 27:17, 1 Cor. 12:12–20).

7. Prayer support is vital. I will regularly share prayer requests with my friends and supporters (2 Cor. 1:8–11, Col. 4:2–4, Eph. 6:19–20).

8. My body is a gift from God and useful for the work he’s called me to do. I will look after my body by exercising regularly, eating well and sleeping enough (1 Cor. 6:19–20, Prov. 14:30, 3 John 1:2).

9. I am allowed to enjoy life. I will regularly engage in activities that I enjoy (Prov. 17:22, John 2:1–2, Neh. 8:10).

10. There are always reasons to give thanks. I will reject the temptation to grumble and give thanks instead (1 Thess. 5:18, Ps. 118:28–29, Phil. 4:6).

This article originally appeared on Global Connections and is reposted with permission from the author.

Alex Hawke
Alex Hawke

Alex Hawke is mission and evangelism engagement lead with Christians Against Poverty (CAP) in the UK.

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