Jesusluvsall's Blog

A classic example of the need to take care of ourselves physically is in the bible. It shows that God knows us better than we know ourselves including our need for rest and being restored physically. There is a valuable lesson for all of us especially anyone who struggles with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, addiction, or other mental health issues.

God created us as physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional beings. One part of that being off can affect the others. The story that is a good example of this is of Elijah.

Elijah was spent emotionally and physically after running for miles. He had just seen a great victory of the Lord at Mt. Carmel and then Jezebel sent a messenger to threaten him. Elijah prayed and told God to take him to heaven. God’s response was the send an angel. We see in 1 Kings 19:

“All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again”

The angel fed Elijah and gave him some water to drink, not once but twice. Elijah then continued to Mt. Horeb. God demonstrated his power through wind, fire and an earthquake, but he spoke to Elijah in a gentle voice saying:

“What are you doing here, Elijah?”

God got Elijah talking and then showed him that he was not alone. God took care of Elijah’s physical needs and then his spiritual/emotional needs.

Taking care of my physical needs of rest, exercise, and nutrition has been a slow education for me. I tend to push myself. But I have learned the benefit of taking of myself physically.

Some of my best writing ideas have come to me when I walk in the aqua track at my gym. If I need rest during the afternoon, then nap time it is. I have found a 15 minute nap does wonders for me.

Taking care of ourselves is not selfish. It is investing in ourselves, so we can better live for God and help others.

Prayer is so important. I am writing on Friday evening. Earlier today I spent time with a refugee family. As I drove home, I poured out my thoughts and feelings about the family to Jesus and asked him to reveal himself to them.

I start each day listening to worship music and praying. I so need that. Jesus said that he is the vine and we are the branches to teach us that we need to abide in him.

It is important that we take care of our whole self.

My hope is that this week of writing about mental health issues has helped someone. Next week it will be back to other things to write about. Thank you for reading. God Bless.