How To Be A Healthy Human

The term “self-care” has become very popular in our modern society, especially among the members of Gen-Z. On Instagram alone, over 81.1 million posts are using that term as a hashtag! So, it’s safe to say that caring for ourselves has become the focal point of so many people’s lives. 

Unfortunately, many people use that term as justification for sin, so instead of using the word “self,” let’s use the word “soul.” Any youth leader/pastor who’s served in ministry for a while will tell you that maintaining your health (physically, spiritually, mentally, etc.) is a tough job. You are constantly investing in your students and sharing as much of God’s Word with them as possible. You’re one of the first to arrive at the church. You are one of if not the last to leave. You get up early and stay up late to prepare your sermons. And remain on call for any life updates, good or bad, that your students may experience.  

It becomes extremely easy for your soul to run on empty and your relationship with Jesus to coast on autopilot. Before you know it, the care of your soul is neglected. For example, I’m a fan of muscle cars. And there are a lot of nice-looking ones on the road. But even the most pristine, beautifully painted cars are only as healthy as the engine that’s under the hood.

So, the answer to the question of how to become a healthy human is found in 1 Timothy 4:16. Paul tells Timothy to “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching.” Timothy was being instructed to not let the care of his soul go unnoticed. Or to let his soul slowly but surely drift into ruin. Instead, he was to closely & diligently make sure that he was living in a healthy state.

So, I’ll ask you this question. How are you doing? How are you really doing? Is your walk with Christ thriving or barely surviving? Are your mental & emotional health remaining strong as you lead at your church? Or are you burnt out, tired, and weary? Are your lifestyle & teaching congruently glorifying God?

Wherever you are, I want to encourage you as you lead your students. Jesus offers us living water as refreshment for our souls. Make it a high priority to ensure that your health, in all areas, is being protected. 

Longevity & faithfulness are our goal as Christians & leaders. The way to achieve them is through keeping a close watch on our souls as we follow our Savior. 

Share your thoughts with others in our YM360 community:

• What do you struggle with the most when it comes to taking care of your own soul?
• What are some rhythms you have that you might need to get rid of? What are some rhythms that you can add to your daily life?

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