What Makes Self-care Seem So Difficult?

Human nature dictates we care for others and especially that we care for ourselves as long as we can do so. Taking care of yourself during grief and sorrow or following a traumatic event is difficult because the tendency to be narrowly focused shapes your behavior.

During very stressful moments the impulse to make important life decisions should be avoided since a significant change adds to stress levels by creating more anxiety and fear. Some changes are unavoidable, so consulting with trusted friends and family can be reassuring.

Taking ownership for self-care is important. Being accountable may involve asking for help, especially when feeling overwhelmed by too many choices and decisions. Never hesitate to seek the comfort and fellowship of the Lord God even if you blame him for what you are experiencing. God loves you with an unfailing love that will not fade or be diminished by your grief and sorrow. 

                           

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How great is God’s love for all who worship him? Greater than the distance between heaven and earth! How far has the Lord taken our sins from us? Farther than the distance from east to west! ... With all my heart I praise the Lord. 

~Psalm 103:11-12, 22b Contemporary English Version 

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How Does Seeking Forgiveness Promote Self-care?

Self-care is a normal but often a neglected task in life. Self-neglect or self-abuse often begins in adolescence through sleep deprivation and numerous experimentations including self-harm. Habits formed during these years may become permanent.

David, king of Israel and man of faith, pleaded with God to forgive him for the sins of his youth. For David, pursuing forgiveness was crucial to self-care. Courage is required when seeking forgiveness because it demands being honest and vulnerable.

Offering forgiveness to a person who has wounded your heart and pride demonstrates ownership and self-care. Otherwise your heart will become corrupt with resentment, even hatred, which has the power to damage your mind, body, and spirit. God’s word reminds us if we forgive others we are in a position to receive God’s healing forgiveness, which is the ultimate in self-care.                        

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You must be merciful, as your Heavenly Father is merciful. Don’t judge other people and you will not be judged yourself. Don’t condemn [others] and you will not be condemned. Forgive others and you will be forgiven.  

~Luke 6:37 Phillips – New Testament in Modern English 

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