Whatever you are doing, that which makes you feel the most alive…that is where God is.
St. Ignatius
(1491-1556)
Reflect for a moment. What is it that refreshes your soul? You might be a denominational leader serving in a national or regional capacity, a pastor, a church planter, or a ministry leader. Wherever you serve, the issue of soul care is important, critical, and more than ever – essential.
Why is soul care so essential?
Combat the cultural narrative. Faster is better. Busier is more productive. Attractiveness over substance. It is a challenge we all face as Jesus followers. How can you slow down enough to cultivate your heart (soul) when almost everything around you is shouting for your attention?
Intention is necessary. If left to itself, your soul will go on cruise control – at best! Sadly, the reality is if your soul is not intentionally nurtured, growing, and thriving, it slides backward. When this happens you lose your zeal for life; you look only for the negative. You retreat inward. What is one new habit that you have intended to incorporate in your life that you just haven’t been able to yet, to nurture your soul?
Model what you believe. I have a principle that I have tested over and over again. What people see me do they are more likely to emulate. If I merely give words to soul care, chances are the people I influence are not taking notice. What are you modeling for others with your soul care?
7 Ways to Refresh Your Soul
- Reconnect with Nature: Connect with the natural world and take in God’s creation. Go for a hike, sit by a lake or garden, or simply spend time in your backyard. God’s creative genius has a calming and rejuvenating effect on your soul. When was the last time you enjoyed the outdoors?
- Embrace Mindfulness: Engage in activities that bring you to the present moment; this could include scripture meditation, deep breathing exercises, Christian yoga, or simply paying attention to the sensations in your body as you breathe in God’s grace. How do you practice mindfulness in your daily life?
- Deepen Relationships: Spend quality time with family and friends. Engage in meaningful conversations, share laughter, and create cherished memories. Being in Christian community is so important (Hebrews 10:25). With whom are you in genuine Christian community?
- Unleash Your Creativity: Explore your creative side through painting, writing, music, dancing, or any other art form that brings you joy. Get out of your head, and find a hobby that allows you to play with that side of your brain that God has blessed you with, but you might be neglecting. I enjoy working with my hands and doing small projects around our home. What new creative outlet can you adopt this year?
- Find Joy in Service: Volunteer your time to a cause for which you are passionate. Helping others can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment to your life. I am not naturally a person who finds joy in serving others, so I need to be really intentional in this area. Through God’s grace and the encouragement of my wife, I have increased my willingness to serve others and find it as a life-giving opportunity to nurture my soul. What are you currently doing to serve others?
- Unplug and Recharge: Take a break from technology. Put away your phone, turn off the TV, and simply enjoy the peace and quiet. When I go on a personal retreat, I challenge myself to a digital fast. What is the last thing you do at night before you go to bed?
- Cultivate Gratitude: Take time each day to appreciate the good things in your life. Keeping a gratitude journal can help you cultivate a more positive outlook. For the last couple of years, I have committed to designating a specific amount of time each day to journal in this way to set my mind on the “things above” and look for ways God is at work. How will you express gratitude this year?
Remember, finding what truly refreshes your soul is a personal journey. Experiment with different activities and find what brings you the most peace and joy.
But don’t just talk about it – live it!
What’s one specific action you can take this week to nurture your soul?
Let’s not just preach about soul care, let’s model it. Our actions speak louder than words. When those around us see us prioritizing our spiritual well-being, it permits them to do the same.
May we all find the courage to slow down, to listen to the whispers of our souls, and to live lives that are truly alive.
Help is Available
Are you wrestling with your soul care?
Ready to embark on your own coaching adventure? Schedule a free discovery call with my assistant Samantha (admin@inforcusnet.org) to find a time that works for you. Let’s join forces, and make 2025 the year you cultivate your soul for greater ministry effectiveness!
