In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities, commitments, and the needs of others. As a Christian woman, you may feel a strong calling to love and serve others, just as Jesus did. This is a beautiful and noble calling, but it's important to remember that even Jesus took time to rest and rejuvenate.
Have you ever flown on an airplane? If so, you've likely heard the flight attendant's safety instructions: "In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, oxygen masks will drop down. Put your own mask on first before helping others." This principle, often referred to as the Oxygen Mask Principle, is not just applicable in the air, but also in our daily lives.
Why is it so important to put your own oxygen mask on first? Simply put, you cannot effectively help others if you yourself are struggling to breathe. The same principle applies to your spiritual, emotional, and physical health. If you are constantly pouring out love, time, and energy into others without taking time to replenish yourself, you will eventually run dry.
It's important to understand that self-care is not selfish. It's not about neglecting others or shirking responsibilities. Rather, it's about ensuring that you are in a healthy and stable place so that you can effectively love and serve those around you.
Jesus himself demonstrated this principle throughout his ministry. He often withdrew to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16). He understood the importance of spiritual rejuvenation and connection with the Father. He also took time to rest, even in the midst of a storm (Mark 4:38).
You may feel a strong desire to save your relatives, friends, or even your entire church. But remember, it is not your place to save them. That is the work of Jesus Christ. Your role is to love, serve, and point them to the Savior.
In order to do this effectively, you must first take care of yourself. This means spending time in prayer and reading the Word, ensuring you are physically healthy, and taking time to rest and rejuvenate.
So, dear, remember the Oxygen Mask Principle. Put your own mask on first. Take care of your spiritual, emotional, and physical health. Only then can you effectively love and serve others.
You are not called to save the world. That's Jesus' job. Your job is to love like Jesus, and to do that, you need to ensure you are taking care of yourself first.
In the words of Ephesians 2:10, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." So, let's ensure we are in the best possible condition to carry out those good works, by putting on our own oxygen masks first.
Issata Oluwadare is a dynamic leader and innovative systems thinker with fifteen years of leadership experience in the private and non-profit sectors. She is also a content creator, four-time #1 best-selling author, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, certified life coach & consultant for women in leadership and business, and the founder of The EZ Breezy Life. Issata is happily married with two children. Deeply rooted in Christ, she believes in transforming the lives of imperfect women through the grace of a perfect God. She is also the founder of The EZ Breezy Life, Manny's Village, and Issata O. Inc. Learn more about Issata O. by visiting www.issatao.com.