Sometimes we think that the “self care” fad of the world around us is selfishness. It prioritizes our wants and needs while pushing others’ out of the way. It becomes self-indulgent and not self-sacrificial.
Soul care is a phrase used by many believers to describe the type of self care we must have as followers of Jesus. We must take care of ourselves! We cannot pour from an empty cup; we cannot give love and serve others if we ourselves have not been poured into or filled up ourselves.
Soul care looks like not only investing our time in spiritual disciplines (not just Scripture and prayer, but silence, solitude, celebration, etc). It also looks like finding out what fills you instead of drains you. I’ve heard these things called "gainers" & "drainers." What is it that depletes you and takes your energy? In order to invest in your soul, you need to balance those with gainers—the things that refresh and recharge you. This could be as simple as time with family or friends, to something like a hobby or a simple action. How are you balancing gainers and drainers in your life?
Whatever you do, be sure to have the things that replenish your soul in your routines. Do not become depleted or drained; let Jesus meet you in the ways that are filling, in order that your soul and life are abundant and able to overflow!
- Pastor Emma
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." ~ Colossians 2:6-7
"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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” ~ Matthew 11:28-30
"An external change cannot alleviate an internal torment. You must reconstruct the foundation of your soul upon the truth of who you are in Christ." ~ Rob Reimer
