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Can we be real? Life can be overwhelming. Between responsibilities, relationships, and the endless to-do lists, self-care often gets pushed to the back burner. But here’s the truth: self-care isn’t just something that’s nice to have. It’s a must. It’s not about indulgence; it’s about living well, honoring God, and showing up as your best self for the people He’s called you to serve.

What Self-Care Really Is

Self-care is a buzzword today, but it’s not a new idea. Back in the day, it was a medical term for people dealing with severe mental or physical challenges. By the 1970s, it became a rallying cry during the women’s and civil rights movements. 

Here’s the thing: self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and binge-watching your favorite shows. It’s about managing stress, honoring how God created us, and refilling our cups so we can pour out to others. Psalm 23 reminds us that our cup overflows, but only when it’s full first. 

How to Know When You Need Self-Care

Sometimes, we’re running so hard we don’t even notice we’re running on empty. But here’s how you know when it’s time to pause:

  • You’re exhausted, frustrated, or feel like you’re carrying a weight you weren’t meant to bear.
  • You’re snapping at people or withdrawing altogether.
  • You just feel “off”.

These are red flags that it’s time to slow down and reconnect – with God, with yourself, and with what matters most. 

Three Types of Self-Care

Physical Care – Take care of the body God gave you. It’s not about perfection or chasing fitness goals. It is about feeling good in your skin and having the energy to live the life He’s called you to. To care for yourself physically, make sure you’re getting quality sleep and moving your body in ways that feel good like stretching, walking, or dancing. Physical care also includes eating well and prioritizing nutrition over pleasure. Don’t be overwhelmed by extremes in either case. Small and steady wins the race. It all counts!

Soul Care – Your mental and emotional health matter to God, too. Soul care is about finding what fills you up and brings you joy. Take a gratitude walk and thank God for what He’s done. Do something creative like painting, writing, or spending time outside. Find your active rest (yes, rest can be active!). Maybe it’s reading, baking, or just listening to music that soothes your soul. 

Spiritual Care – This is the anchor. Spiritual care is about seeking God’s presence and letting Him refresh you. Spend time in prayer, laying down your worries and burdens. Dive into Scripture. Try out a YouVersion reading plan like my new plan, The Magnificent Grace of God. Be still and let God meet you in the quiet.

How to Make Self-Care Happen

It’s easy to talk about self-care, but how do you actually fit it into your life? Start here:

  • Hands (Plan it): Put it on the calendar like you would any other priority. 
  • Heart (Sense it): Pay attention to what your heart and body are telling you. 
  • Head (Know it): Remind yourself that this isn’t selfish. It’s stewardship. 

Self-care is a continual practice of receiving. It’s about slowing down long enough to let God pour into you. When you take time to rest, you’re not stepping away from your responsibilities. It’s stepping into God’s presence, where He can renew your mind, restore your spirit, and refill your cup. 

Self-care is worship. It’s an act of trust, of saying, “God, I need You to fill me so I can pour out.” It’s good stewardship of the temple He’s given you. And it’s a gift, not just for you, but for everyone you serve. 

So slow down, breathe, and let Him refill your cup. 

 

Highlights from Today’s Episode

  • Recognizing signs of burnout
  • Receiving renewal from God
  • Practicing rest as worship

Related Resources

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Let’s Talk!

  1. What’s one small act of self-care that you can commit to this week?
  2. Where is God inviting you to slow down and care more intentionally?
  3. How do you prioritize rest, and what’s one change you’d make?

 

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How to Listen to The Podcast

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You have been so great to join me on the journey here on the blog, I hope you jump right in and do the same on the podcast!