Taking Care of Yourself
The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh. Proverbs 11:17 (KJV)
It is good to be good to yourself. It is healthy to do things for yourself. Do something you enjoy. It refreshes you spiritually, brings enjoyment to your soul, and is physically relaxing. In other words, it benefits us spirit, soul, and body. Taking care of ourselves brings peace, joy, satisfaction, and contributes to good health.
When you are merciful, or kind, to yourself, you are better prepared to be a blessing to God, other people, and yourself. On the other hand, being hard on yourself brings trouble upon you, causing you trouble with your health and relationships. This leads to regret and dissatisfaction. Take time out for yourself. Learn to say no to the demands of others sometimes.
If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it. Proverbs 9:12 (KJV)
It is to your benefit to have wisdom. It helps you know the best way to go and how to live. If you scorn wisdom, or reject it, you are the one who will be negatively affected. Learn to help yourself through wisdom and love.
And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Matthew 22:39 (KJV) emphasis mine
This is Jesus talking. In His statement, it is inferred that it is important to love yourself. Love and accept yourself. See the value in who you are. Be content with who you are as God is in the process of changing you and maturing you into greater Christlikeness. if you’re a man, be a man. if you’re a woman, be a woman. Just be who God made you to be. Love yourself for who you are- God does.
Be patient with yourself. Growth takes time. Don’t be angry with yourself. Behave in a way that does not make things harder on yourself. Cooperate with the growth process. Don’t beat yourself up over mistakes. Mistakes don’t define us. Believe in yourself like God does. Be confident in who he made you, and others will respect that.
Summary:
Accept yourself and be at peace with yourself. Forgive yourself for errors and shortcomings. Take care of yourself by doing things you like, enjoy, and get fulfillment from. Do what you enjoy, and enjoy what you do. Take care of your health, relationships, finances, and occupation. Glorify God in what you do and trust the Lord to take care of you. It’s okay to take care of yourself so you are refreshed, and empowered to help others. And allow God to be your primary Caretaker. He’s got you. After all, you’re not too much for God.
