Is Taking Care of Yourself Selfish? Think Again!

Many of us feel guilty about taking time for ourselves. We think it's selfish to put our needs first. But guess what? The Bible says differently!

Our bodies are special.

The Bible compares our bodies to temples where God's Spirit lives. Can you imagine treating a temple badly? We need to take good care of ourselves because we're caring for God's home. Think about how you would care for a beautiful, sacred place – that's how we should treat our own bodies. Nourish it, rest it, and cherish it.

Even Jesus needed a break.

The Bible shows us that Jesus, the Son of God, took time to rest and be alone. He would retreat to quiet places to pray and recharge. If Jesus needed a break, it's okay for us to need one too! He knew the importance of rest and self-care, and he set an example for us to follow. Taking time for ourselves is not a sign of weakness but a recognition of our humanity and an acceptance of our limitations.

Helping others starts with helping yourself.

Imagine trying to help someone when you’re tired, hungry, or sad. It’s hard, right? When we take care of ourselves, we have more energy and love to share with others. It’s like filling up your own cup before pouring into others. When you're well-rested and happy, you can be a better friend, parent, or worker. It's like the instructions on an airplane: put your own oxygen mask on first before helping others.

So, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary.

It helps you be a better friend, parent, or worker. Find things you enjoy, whether it’s reading, spending time in nature, or just relaxing. Doing what makes you happy and fulfilled recharges your spirit and body. Remember, you’re important too! Taking care of yourself is a way of honoring the life and body God has given you.

What do you think? How do you find time for yourself? Share your ideas!


If you're looking for more resources, grab my free guide on nurturing your mental health as a Christian woman. Grab it here! And for daily encouragement and tips, follow along on Instagram @WonderChristianCounseling.

(P.S. If you're in Texas and seeking therapy, I offer free consultations - check it out here!)

While I am a licensed therapist, this post is for informational purposes only and may not be suitable for your specific situation. It should not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here are not intended to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, or diagnosis. Always consult with your physician or a medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.

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