The best form of self care is not a skin care or gym routine, nor is it a trip to the spa or a favorite mall. It is also not spending time to travel nor have a staycation.
Intentional soul care, or daily nurturing of one’s relationship with the Lord is the best self-care we could ever do. When we do things to increase our Spiritual Stamina like spending time reading God’s word and keeping a consistent prayer time everyday, we get to take care of both our heart and mind.
“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3
The great King David, who was described as a man after God’s own heart, wrote about spending time seeking God’s presence during both good and bad times in his life. In his psalms he emphasized how important these daily encounters are and how helpful it has been for his soul.
“Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament. Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” Psalm 5:1-3
As present-day believers existing in a fast-paced world where depression, anxiety, and stress are not uncommon, we too may benefit from David’s routine. Instead of turning to self-care forms that offer only temporary stress release and fleeting joys, pursuing the God of Comforts will always be the most logical choice when it comes to caring for our own weary soul.
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” Psalm 143:8
After all, even our own Savior, Jesus Christ, modeled this to us, as He wakes up at day break or withdraws from the crowd to commune with the Heavenly Father, and bring His cares by His feet.
“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
When we spend our days prioritizing our relationship with the Prince of peace, we get the true self- care we need and deserve. As we are strengthened by His word and made hopeful by His promises, we get the mind, body, and soul care that we truly need — the peace that does not depend on circumstances, and joy even in the face of adversity.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Psalm 143:1-10 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: What is your self-care routine? Does it include communing with the Heavenly Father for your soul’s needs?
Conversation with the Lord: Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for allowing us to come to the Heavenly Father. Thank you that because you saved us we can bring over our cares and have our souls nourished by your presence and your words. May we have the confidence to always come to you for guidance and grace every day. Amen.