Are you in the process of learning to live healthier? Maybe your New Year’s resolution was to eat better, exercise, or in some other way improve your physical health? Join us for the next few days as we offer scripture, insight, and encouragement to help on that journey.
Today’s scripture: Galatians 5:22-23 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Ben Lamb):
This passage reminded me of the so-called “Golden Rule” — treat others the same way that you want them to treat you (Matthew 7:9-12; Luke 6:31). Why should these niceties apply exclusively to other people? You and I are people, as well, even to our own selves.
The beginning of a new year is a nifty time to start something brand new. Why not start to treat yourself the same way that you want (and hopefully try) to treat others? I’d imagine that sharing the manifestations of the Holy Spirit’s presence within yourself is one way that you try to treat others. But, do you display these same manifestations to your own self?
If you have low self-esteem, try this. Stand in front of your mirror and say, “God claims to love me. If God loves me, it can’t be a sinful crime, nor stupid idea, for me to love myself as well.”
How do you show kindness to others? Is it through acts of kindness, or maybe taking time to listen? Take the time and effort to be kind to yourself, or have a quiet time of honest reflection with yourself.
Then there’s patience to think about. Did you know that 100% of humans who are alive today are not 100% perfect? Nope, not a one of us happens to be. If this is a bit of shocking revelation to you, perhaps you’re someone who needs to show patience to your own self in addition to showing it to others.
A friend of mine years ago used to talk about the goodness part. She’d say, “Be sure to be good to Ben, too.” At the time, I thought it sounded rather corny, but I eventually understood what she meant. She was saying that it’s important for us to remember to take an honest assessment of how we’re dealing with all aspects of our lives, and to make healthy modifications when needed.
The word faithfulness can be more encompassing than thinking of it in terms of relationship fidelity. Are you being fully faithful about how you’re treating your whole body in order for it to be in its best condition? If not, what steps — no matter how small — can you take to begin being a newly-found friend to yourself this year?
Thought for the day: Friendships (particularly long-term ones) are valuable. Add yourself to your own list.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.