Best Interests

“Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit.” (3 John 1:2 NLT)

Is there someone in your life that has your best interest at heart?

If not, can you be that person in your own life? The one that nurtures, protects, loves, and accepts yourself unconditionally. Or do you believe it would be selfish to care for yourself in that way?

How can we take care of our best interests today? There is no universal formula; the answers are unique for each of us. Take some time to think about your personal needs. Here are a few questions that may be helpful:

How can you care for your physical health today?

How can you nurture your mental well-being today?

How can you build up your spiritual strength today?

Self-care vs. Self-indulgence

“Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit.” (3 John 1:2 NLT)

Is there a difference between self-care and self-indulgence?

Self-indulgence is eating candy, while self-care is eating a salad.

Self-indulgence is spending money you don’t have on things you don’t need, while self-care is paying off debts, so that you can sleep peacefully.

Self-indulgence is surrounding yourself with fake people who tell you what you want to hear, while self-care is spending time with people who make you a better person.

Self-indulgence feels good as you are doing it, but it is not always beneficial in the long run. There is nothing wrong with occasional indulgences, but it’s difficult to know when you’ve slipped into excess. It’s like trying to decide if you are sober enough to drive after you’re drunk. You can’t depend on your own judgment when it is already impaired. Self-indulgence can be thrilling or mind-numbing. It can be compulsive and sometimes destructive.  In contrast, self-care is good for you. It may not always feel pleasurable at the moment, but it doesn’t have to feel depriving either.  Self-care nurtures your body, mind, and spirit. It is intentional and mindful and often requires some planning. It is never harmful--to yourself or anyone else.  In essence, self-care nourishes your value and worth. It cultivates health in body, strength in spirit, and wellness in soul.