“For the soul to be well, it needs to be with God.”
John Ortberg
The definition of neglect is “to give little attention or respect, to disregard.” When we neglect our souls (mind, will, and emotions), we are not giving them the needed attention. Soul neglect occurs when we don’t see its value and importance. Busyness is another reason why soul care is a low priority. Deuteronomy 6:5 encourages us to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, and might. I want to love the Lord with a healthy, well-cared-for soul.
We neglect the mind part of the soul when we read material or watch things that are not edifying. In computer circles, there is a saying, GIGO: garbage in, garbage out. The quality of data that is inputted into a computer will dictate the quality of the output. What we put into our minds influences us. Who we become is largely determined by the books we read and the shows we watch. Take care of your soul by being mindful of what your eyes see, and ears hear.
We neglect the wills of our souls when we succumb to temptation and say yes to sin, instead of surrendering our choices to God. Our souls are disregarded when we choose our way over God’s way and don’t stop to ask God what He wants us to do. Make sure your God-given appetites are satisfied by God-approved decisions. Soul care involves choosing a lifestyle of submission and obedience to God.
Lastly, we neglect the emotional aspect of our souls when we stuff our emotions and sweep our hurts under the rug. Instead of numbing out with addictive habits as a response to stress, we care for our souls by relying on God and finding comfort in Him. We pay attention to our souls as we confess and repent of our sins, restoring our relationship with God. Choosing to forgive those who have hurt us and letting go of the offense, restores our souls. Many people avoid the process of grieving because it’s too painful. Sometimes the only way to experience healing is to go through the pain of grieving our loss and disappointments. We show respect to our souls when we discern what lies we’re believing and replace them with the truth found in God’s Word. Healthy thought patterns birth life to healthy souls.
Making more soul space with solitude and listening to God’s voice are other soul care practices. My prayer for each of you comes from 3 John 2: “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”
“The space where we find rest and healing for our souls is solitude.”
John Ortberg
Relevant Reflections:
1. In what ways have you neglected your soul?
2. Which of these soul care practices will you make time for this week?