Out of all the self-care tips and tricks, the one thing that’s worked best for me is taking time to ponder in contemplative meditation of the Lord and His goodness. The best part is that it doesn’t matter where I am physically or how much money I may or may not have to spare. I can be anywhere in the world, in any surrounding, with or without all the little luxuries. 

Inspiration often begins when gazing at God’s beauty in creation such as a brilliantly lit sky day or night, budding flowers, towering, full trees, an isolated seashore, the quiet ambiance of dawn and if I’m lucky, at dusk too, the contented sigh of a newborn baby, a clear babbling brook, voices of God’s people singing in unison, harmony, and by the power of the Lord. There are so many occasions when I begin writing reflections of a Scripture passage and I find that revives my spirit so much more than any candlelit bath or pedicure could ever do. Yes, I love those things as much as any girl. I enjoy shopping for myself, mom’s night out, dates with my hubby, naps, vacations, uninterrupted tea time with a book or a good friend. My soul needs consistent replenishing and nourishment. The world interprets that as needed “self-care.” Call it what you may, but remember that we were all created to worship in this life and for all eternity. When our worship is directed to Jesus Christ our Savior, we receive what He knows we need to continue on our unique journeys. 

The key is knowing when to pause and worship. Gideon paused to worship after the Lord gave him a great task. He went where God told him to go and heard two random guys talking about a dream and what that meant to them. It was just what he needed to rise up and courageously fulfil the plan and purpose God had set before him. I would imagine that moment of worship was instantaneous and brief, completely enveloping him with amazement at the goodness of God.