Self-Care in Soul-Restoring Fulfillment

Gathering data on the state of Jesus’ inner world often requires extrapolating, but I believe Jesus probably felt fulfilled at the end of most days. According to the Gospels, his days varied quite a bit. He had busy ministry days, travel days, days with rest, and days with long meals. So, Jesus was intentional and flexible. He didn’t seem to waste much time or get distracted from his mission. What we do see is that Jesus’ life lined up with what was important to him in the big and small ways.

Most people underestimate the role of daily fulfillment in their plan for soul-restoring self-care. Most days, it isn’t difficult to plan in items for fulfillment, but it does require intention. Too often, we let day after day go by without fulfillment, and we begin to feel empty and discombobulated as a result! So make a plan to experience fulfillment TODAY.

How, you ask? Fulfillment is found in so many ways and is highly personal. For me, fulfillment comes in all kinds of forms. Focused, productive work helps me feel fulfilled. So does celebrating a loved one’s accomplishment! I also love surprising family and friends with small gifts. I knew today that I would feel better if I accomplished some focused writing, so I put my phone in another room, set a timer, and worked for an hour without disruption. Later today, I’m going to surprise my daughter with her favorite coffee drink. Adding these two things to my day will help me feel more fulfilled!

What are one or two fulfilling things you can add to your day as an act of soul-restoring self-care? Planning like this each day will lead to the rich and satisfying life that Jesus wants for you!

To find Janice’s book and blog, visit janicemcwilliams.com/restore-my-soul.