“What could you ever trade your soul for?” (Matthew 16:28 MSG)
A friend of mine routinely packed her child’s lunches with nutritious food. Little did she know that her daughter often traded her yogurt and fruits for cookies and candy. This little girl just wanted what tasted good. She didn’t have the wisdom or willpower to care for herself properly. Similarly, God provides us with opportunities for true nourishment, but we often trade it in for junk. We chase after things that make us feel good, because we are unable to discern what our soul really needs.
The soul is nourished by acceptance, authenticity, personal responsibility, autonomy, spiritual discipline, emotional boundaries, healthy relationships, rest, solitude, and self-awareness. However, most of us pursue leisure, entertainment, pleasure, distraction, excitement, or adventure in the hope that these will revive our souls. We conflate relaxation with restoration.
“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.” (Psalm 23:1-3 ESV)
Lord, lead us to peace and fulfillment. Grant us the wisdom and discipline to care for our souls.
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