“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.”
– John 15:4
Something I’ve noticed about people, and Christians in particular, is that we have a hard time practicing self-care. Yet especially as believers, we have every reason to love ourselves and to treat our bodies, minds, and hearts with the same affection that the Lord does. To expound further upon the image we introduced yesterday of being the “apple of God’s eye,” I want to encourage you to bear good fruit in your life by staying connected to the Vine. In other words, slow down, abide in His love, learn from His example, and grow strong and healthy so you can nourish others. As you do this, He will empower you to establish rhythms of rest so you can embrace Kingdom life with energy, enthusiasm, and passion. Unfortunately, many of us get caught in the trap of “doing” rather than “being,” and we become devoted to crossing items off of a checklist rather than letting the Lord check our hearts. However, to live in the peace we have inherited by His Spirit, we must practice being still so we can receive His goodness in our souls. Practically speaking, this means that we need to pull ourselves away from the daily grind and intentionally seek quiet and solitude. Sometimes this requires that we find a tranquil place to study His Word and pray, or sometimes it takes a more action-oriented approach like spending time with life-giving people, adopting a new exercise routine, doing a fun activity, or choosing to go deeper in dealing with hurts and hangups by seeking wise counsel. Whatever its form, showing compassion to our own soul is absolutely essential to bearing the kind of fruit that feeds others and brings God’s Kingdom to earth with power and purpose! My friend, as one whom Jesus treasures, you have every reason to love yourself. When the Lord looks at you, He sees a priceless and beautiful jewel, and since He compassionately protects and provides for you, you can rest in His sufficiency and stop spinning your wheels to prove your worth. God has given you authority to govern the kingdom of your heart with wisdom and prudence, and He beckons you to speak kindly and lovingly to your soul, just like He does. You are unique and totally irreplaceable, and your Savior wants to partner with you in bringing His Good News to your near-dwellers and neighbors. Take care of yourself, steward well the fullness of life with which He has blessed you, and you will bear good fruit that transforms the world around you! |
Prayer
Jesus, teach me to love and care for my own soul before extending myself to others.
Reflection
Do you struggle with self-care? What is one step you can take today to show love to yourself?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
Good morning
My name is Rachel from Heidelberg I’m 37 years born again,I am currently seeking Job I’ve been applying and there is no response in any of my applications please pray for me..