Growing up in the south, we ALWAYS heard “love your neighbor as yourself”.
In my life, it was often put in the light of “go above and beyond for everyone and put yourself last.” That’s the exact opposite of what Jesus is saying in that verse. I was shown over and over by other’s actions that loving myself and wanting to do something for myself or something that brings me joy=selfish.
You can’t take care of others if your cup is empty. You can not do the best for others if you do not do the best for yourself. You aren’t meant to work yourself to death, day in and day out to please all the people.
God did not create us to be used and abused by ill-intended people.
God created us for relationship with Him. He loves us. He cherishes us.
Loving your neighbor as yourself means loving yourself is NOT a sin. Taking care of yourself? Also, not a sin. You have permission to love yo’self! Jesus wants us to do the best to take care of us and our temple, and THEN we can love others the same way.
Just like on the airplanes we are taught to put our oxygen mask on FIRST, and then help others. That applies to ourselves in our day to day mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health as well.
I’d love to hear in the comments below how YOU fill up your cup and show yourself some love!
Starkey Coaching 