Your article is interesting that you advocate for self care to be able to stay a care giver; it's not self care and caregiver, as opposing sides. I think people miss that: self care empowers us to keep pouring out; it doesn't remove us from ministry.
Amy Carmichael's book is a mood; a powerful, all-consuming, delicious mood. We've been studying Matthew in Sunday school, while studying Hebrews and now Thessalonians, after Ephesians, in church. And, this idea of self care has been muddling in me, for a while. It can be selfish to give too much, for fame; it can also be selfish to give to little, because of lack of interest. There's a difference between taking a vacation or getting your nails done or a sabbatical or day unplugged versus, in my opinion, constantly announcing self care, and determined to have it. We discredit God's grace, a lot. We discredit it by assuming we can do it all, and by deciding we're done. The balance isn't as delicate, the line isn't as fine, as we are led to believe.
This is teaching that has become harder and harder to find in the church. I believe it’s exactly what Christ showed us, yet it is often argued and watered down by His followers. Beautiful post.
This was a very balanced, biblical way to view both self care for the purpose of being able to help care for others, fulfill the ministry God has called each of us to in our own lives, and the way self care is held up almost as the most important thing in a life. It’s very important that we care for ourselves in meaningful ways that soothe and feed our souls, but not at the expense of doing the things God has called us to do. You’re right-it can be a very fine balance! We need to learn to say no to some things and yes to some-for me I think I’ve found that I have to be very sensitive to the urging of the Holy Spirit when making these decisions-and I’m sure I don’t always get it right. I was raised and taught that I am to do good deeds for the church to the point of exhaustion, both physically and spiritually-and keep going. It was seen as noble. In reality I think it was more for show than having an actual heart for helping people. It was ministry at the expense of the person’s family, who were neglected in the name of doing things for God… so-I definitely think there’s a proper balance in there! And I’m sure it’ll look a little bit different for each person’s life. Great topic to discuss!!
Dear Rachel,
I so appreciate all you write about. You have such a servant's heart, and I pray for your family.
I agree that is such a balance between self-care and selfishness. However I would like to share an article I just wrote about caregivers and self-care: https://www.dementiamap.com/caregiving-can-kill-you/
Such a journey we walk as Christians. nancyrpoland.com
Your article is interesting that you advocate for self care to be able to stay a care giver; it's not self care and caregiver, as opposing sides. I think people miss that: self care empowers us to keep pouring out; it doesn't remove us from ministry.
Amy Carmichael's book is a mood; a powerful, all-consuming, delicious mood. We've been studying Matthew in Sunday school, while studying Hebrews and now Thessalonians, after Ephesians, in church. And, this idea of self care has been muddling in me, for a while. It can be selfish to give too much, for fame; it can also be selfish to give to little, because of lack of interest. There's a difference between taking a vacation or getting your nails done or a sabbatical or day unplugged versus, in my opinion, constantly announcing self care, and determined to have it. We discredit God's grace, a lot. We discredit it by assuming we can do it all, and by deciding we're done. The balance isn't as delicate, the line isn't as fine, as we are led to believe.
Beautiful, important, and encouraging words. Thank you :)
I needed this today. Thank you!
And I ( we) love you. Thank you for reaching our pointy hats. Luv u
I love the way you tackled the self care topic Rachel! So well written!
Excellent insight Joelle. I have much to learn!
This is teaching that has become harder and harder to find in the church. I believe it’s exactly what Christ showed us, yet it is often argued and watered down by His followers. Beautiful post.
This was a very balanced, biblical way to view both self care for the purpose of being able to help care for others, fulfill the ministry God has called each of us to in our own lives, and the way self care is held up almost as the most important thing in a life. It’s very important that we care for ourselves in meaningful ways that soothe and feed our souls, but not at the expense of doing the things God has called us to do. You’re right-it can be a very fine balance! We need to learn to say no to some things and yes to some-for me I think I’ve found that I have to be very sensitive to the urging of the Holy Spirit when making these decisions-and I’m sure I don’t always get it right. I was raised and taught that I am to do good deeds for the church to the point of exhaustion, both physically and spiritually-and keep going. It was seen as noble. In reality I think it was more for show than having an actual heart for helping people. It was ministry at the expense of the person’s family, who were neglected in the name of doing things for God… so-I definitely think there’s a proper balance in there! And I’m sure it’ll look a little bit different for each person’s life. Great topic to discuss!!
What a much needed article at this very time in my life! Thank you so much for letting Christ speak through your words!❤️