In today’s society, it is easy to fall into the trap of being told we should only care about ourselves. We are often bombarded with messages that encourage us to prioritize our own needs and desires and focus on our own happiness above all else.

However, the Bible instructs us to take a different approach: to die to self and to prioritize others above ourselves.

In this blog, we will explore why this is important, and I’ll offer some practical steps to care for yourself while putting others first.

Why Should We Die to Self?

At first glance, the idea of dying to self may seem counterintuitive. After all, don’t we all want to be happy and fulfilled? The Bible teaches us that true happiness and fulfillment come not from pursuing our desires but from serving others and living a life of purpose.

In Matthew 16:24-25, Jesus says, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”

This is not to say we should neglect our own needs and desires altogether. On the contrary, it is important to take care of ourselves, both physically and emotionally.

That’s why self-care is such an essential part of the equation. Self-care is not self-centered. Taking time to care for ourselves actually enables us to be more present and engaged with others. When we are rested, nourished, and feeling good about ourselves, we are better able to be kind, patient, and compassionate with those around us.

Practical ways to practice self-care

1. Prioritize rest and relaxation. It’s important to make time for activities that help us unwind and recharge, such as taking a hot bath, reading a book, or going for a walk in nature. By prioritizing rest, we can prevent burnout and ensure we have the energy to be there for others.
2. Engage in activities that bring us joy. Whether it’s playing music, painting, or cooking, we should make time for the activities that bring us joy and fulfillment. These activities not only nourish our souls but also help us stay connected to our own needs and desires.
3. Connect with others. While our focus is on putting others first, we need to have a support system in place. Spending time with friends and loved ones can be an excellent way to recharge and find support in times of need.
4. Take care of our physical health. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, prioritizing sleep, and managing stress are all essential components of self-care. By caring for our physical health, we can ensure we have the energy and stamina to care for others.

That said, we should always be mindful of how our actions impact others and seek to put their needs above our own whenever possible. Instead of focusing solely on ourselves, we are called to a higher purpose: to love and care for those around us.

In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus gives us a clear directive: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.”

By putting others first, we honor God’s call to love and serve those around us.

Of course, this is easier said than done. It can be challenging to prioritize the needs of others, especially when we are facing our own struggles and challenges.

Here are a few practical ways to ensure we keep our focus in the right place while continuing to care for ourselves.

Steps for Putting Others First while Practicing Self-care

1. Practice empathy. Try to see things from other people’s perspectives, and be mindful of how your words and actions may impact them. Consider how you would want to be treated if you were in their shoes.
2. Serve others. Look for opportunities to help those around you, whether volunteering at a local charity, donating to a worthy cause, or simply offering a listening ear to a friend in need. This can build strong relationships that are founded on love and compassion.
3. Practice forgiveness. Holding onto grudges and resentments only hurts us in the long run. Instead, try to forgive others (and yourself) for past mistakes and move forward with a spirit of love and compassion.
4. Seek wise counsel. It can be helpful to talk to a trusted friend or mentor when navigating difficult situations. Surround yourself with people who will support and encourage you in your efforts to put others first.
5. Set boundaries. It is crucial to help others, but this does not mean you have to say yes to everything. Instead, learn to say no when necessary and make time for activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. By setting boundaries, we can ensure that we are taking care of our own needs while also being mindful of how our actions impact others.

Through this selfless approach to life, we can find true happiness and fulfillment.

Biblical Support

Here are a few additional Bible verses that reinforce the importance of selflessness and caring for others:

• Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
• Galatians 5:13: “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
• Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

These verses remind us that God calls us to love and care for those around us and that true selflessness involves putting the needs of others above our own.

Conclusion:

In summary, while putting others first is an essential aspect of a selfless life, it’s equally important to prioritize our own needs and practice self-care. By doing so, we can ensure that we have the energy and resources we need to care for others, and by following the teachings of the Lord, we can create a more loving, compassionate, and supportive world for all.

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