Nurturing Self-Care
Scripture Reading — Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Self-care is vital for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It’s not selfish; rather, it equips us to care for others more effectively. Setting aside time for self-care activities like exercise, hobbies, reflecting on God’s work in our lives, and simply resting can reenergize us and improve our general mood.
Embracing self-care involves recognizing our limits and needs. It means saying no when we need to, setting boundaries, and seeking support when we feel overwhelmed. Self-compassion is also necessary; treating ourselves with kindness and understanding promotes resilience and inner peace.
I am thankful to have experienced the transformative power of self-care. Taking regular breaks, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities that bring joy have all contributed to my well-being and my ability to serve others wholeheartedly.
Let’s remember that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. By nurturing ourselves, we honor the temple of our bodies and souls (see 1 Corinthians 6:19), enabling us to live more authentically and effectively for the sake of God’s kingdom.
Lord, teach us the value and importance of self-care. Grant us rest and strength to serve others effectively. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Darrell Delaney
Darrell Delaney is a cohost of ReFrame’s podcast ministry Groundwork and serves as lead chaplain with Reach the Forgotten Jail Ministry in Michigan. He considers it his life’s calling to create and facilitate life-giving environments in which people can thrive and grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. Darrell and his wife, Kia, have three children. He enjoys spending time with family, walking, reading, and playing basketball, chess, and video games.
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