Self Care – We Can’t Care For Others If We Don’t Care For Ourselves

I often feel like social media has made my small world a little bit too big. I know too much information about too many people, all the time. Keeping up with all that can be a little stressful at times.

I think on some level I feel like if I *know* all of the trials (and joys) of my friends on social media, I am somehow responsible to care for or celebrate them. (Oh, the pressure) 

But consider Jesus’ example in Luke. Crowds of people came directly to him for healing. “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” ( Luke 5:15-16).

Jesus knew that taking the time to get alone and pray was as critically important as caring for those around him.

He wasn’t being self-centered when he took time away from the crowds, He was being God-centered.

We can’t care for others if we don’t care for ourselves.

Friends, if you feel the need to take time away from the weight of social media connectedness for a little while, I encourage you to do it. Sometimes, self care is exactly what you need.

Spend that time walking, praying, journaling, singing and anything else that draws you closer to the heart of God. And if you still need an extra push towards self care, read more about how God’s best includes rest. I promise you, it’s important and you won’t regret it.

You, and the people God has called you to care for, will be better for it.

xo,
Alli

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