Joel Osteen Daily Devotional Monday 16th October 2023 – Take Care Of Yourself

Friend, when Jesus was on earth, He went around healing people, teaching in the synagogues, lifting people up, and spending time with His disciples. Everywhere He went, there were needs. People would come up and ask, “Will You heal my child? Will You come to our city? Can I touch the edge of Your robe?” People made constant demands on His time and energies. Imagine how He felt. As the Son of God, He had this incredible power, anointing, and wisdom—so much to offer. Yet at times, when He was tired, the Scripture says that He would go away from the crowds and into the mountains to be alone so He could be refreshed. He could have felt guilty. “There are so many needs. There are people to heal and lepers to cleanse. I can’t take a break.” But Jesus knew He had to take care of His temple. No matter how anointed you are, you get tired. No matter how strong, smart, or gifted you are, you get depleted. Despite all the needs around you and despite what your children, spouse, boss, and friends are counting on you for, you have to have these times to get alone and recharge your batteries. If Jesus, the Son of God, had to be alone and rest to meet all the demands of the people around Him, why do we think we can go all the time and be everything for everyone?

“I can’t let them down. They’re counting on me.” I’ve learned that the sun will still come up if I don’t get everything done. The sun will still rise if I don’t keep everyone happy. You’re not doing yourself any favors if you’re living in a depleted state. Sometimes we’ve been doing it for so long that we don’t realize how far below our potential we’re living. You won’t be as good a parent, spouse, leader, or friend if you’re not taking time to get away. There will always be needs, always be something to do or someone who wants your attention. You have to make it a priority to stay in balance. It’s okay to be depleted, to work hard, to give it your best, and to be there for people, but it’s not okay to stay depleted. You have to get filled back up.

Reflection

In this final principle, Take Care of Yourself, think about what refreshes you. Write about the things that refill you with energy and stamina.

Everybody replenishes themselves differently. Take some time to think bigger and get creative. How can you make your health and well-being a priority, just as it is to God?

Declaration

Today, I declare that I will rely on the Spirit of the Lord instead of working in my own strength. I will keep my life in balance and give myself time and permission to rest and replenish my energy. I declare that I will let go of the pressure to perform. I will take care of myself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I declare that I am worthy and valuable just as I am, and that the Almighty God will bring me to where I need to be.