Self love is required before you love someone else
Self-love, for me, is not about vanity. It is about stewardship. It is choosing to care for the life God trusted me with.
It looks like discipline in the gym, quiet time in the Word, nourishing my body with intention, exploring the world He created, building a peaceful home, using my voice in public spaces, and honoring who He made me to be. Even the small things, like solo dates and moments of rest, are reminders that my life is valuable because God gave it to me.
Scripture tells us to love others as we love ourselves (Mark 12:31). That means self-love is not selfish. It is biblical. When I take care of my mind, body, and spirit, I am better equipped to serve God and love people well!
From my own journey, I've learned that self-love goes far beyond surface-level care—it's a deliberate choice to nurture the life entrusted to us by God. Incorporating daily habits like reading and studying the Bible, as mentioned in Jeremiah 29 and other scriptures, provides spiritual grounding that strengthens my faith and resilience. Physical care through Pilates, mindful eating, and cooking favorite healthy meals, such as those with organic ingredients and flavorful herbs, fuels not only my body but also my enthusiasm for life. These actions remind me that my body is a temple, worthy of respect and care. Traveling, sometimes solo, offers a beautiful way to explore God's creation and grow in self-reliance. It challenges me to step out of my comfort zone while deepening my appreciation of the world. Similarly, turning my living space into a peaceful, dream home grounds me, creating an environment that fosters calm and creativity. Small acts like solo dates or moments of rest serve not only as self-care but as affirmations of my worth and individuality. Sharing my testimony and faith-led growth during uncertain times encourages obedience to God's calling and reminds me that loving ourselves is essential to embodying His love fully. Taking the time to learn new skills and expand my mind helps me stay curious and joyful, enriching my life and relationships. All of these practices together build a foundation of self-love that is biblical, nourishing mind, body, and spirit, enabling me to better serve God and love others sincerely and effectively.