For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:10)
My friend shared about his schedule and how he’d barely had a moment of rest. “I’ll have time to sleep when I’m dead” he exclaimed. Many of the others around him have spent years following his example. Another person with health issues recently shared that he wished that he didn’t sleep so much and that his body was better so he could do things like before. Both were expressing in some way the idea that busyness and activity equal normalcy and productivity.
The reality is that our bodies and our souls work together to live out our purpose in work, fun, play and rest. Last week, many speakers at the Global Leadership Summit provided insights about honoring the needs of our bodies and of our souls. You are valued; self- care is important, so I’m passing along a few of these thoughts.
-We experience difficult situations in life. Resilience is our capacity to cope with these hard things. But we are NOT energizer bunnies. This coping does drain us. We are not designed to power through everything. Who and what strengthens you when you are worn out?
-How do we pray? Do we pray more to be blessed, or to be a blessing? What would it be like if we prayed more to be a blessing? Legacy is really about how we bless and give to others.
-We tend to focus on what we have or don’t have. Instead, focus on what we DO with what we have. If you can’t get out and about, how can you change the days of those where you are?
– Getting a full night sleep is essential. Less sleep equals less concentration, less strength and less ability to do stuff (by more than 30%). Sleep is not a luxury. It is mandatory if you want to live out a life of purpose. What one thing could you change to improve your sleep?
-Small habits can have big life impacts. What one small habit could you start that you believe would improve the rest of your day? Do it consistently and see what happens. Mine is walking!
-What one habit doesn’t add a whole lot to the quality of your day or purpose? Try removing it to give more time to focus on what really matters.
The scripture above is set in the context of God’s love for us and plans for removing barriers between God and people, and amongst people. Tucked into all of that is that other nugget of truth….WE ARE GOD’s HANDIWORK, born into this world to make a difference. How we do that will change through the years, but the truth is the same ALL our years. We have purpose every day of our lives. And we are to care for ourselves, our bodies and souls.
What steps can each of us take to better care for ourselves?
Chaplain Karen Henderlong
