bible verses about self-care

What Does The Bible Say About Self-Care? 29 Verses That Reveal God’s Heart

Wondering what God has to say about rest, relaxation, or a little “me time”? There are quite a few bible verses about self-care. In fact, practicing self-care is a biblical principle that is essential for our overall well-being.

Self-Care Is Not Selfish

Taking care of your spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional health is something our heavenly father has called us to do.

In fact, did you know that even Jesus Christ was known to practice self-care?

It’s true!

And, if you think back to Sunday School you might remember Genesis 2:2-3 which says, “And on the seventh day God rested from all his work.”

So even the Lord himself was known to find rest one day of the week!

See, self-care is a way of showing respect for the temple of God, our bodies.

Even though God’s spirit dwells within us as it did Jesus, we need to allow time to read the word, hear the holy spirit, and stay connected.

Getting into a quiet place where verses speak to our inner self-our heart- is one way to refresh our own body and mind and strengthen our spiritual health so we can be ready for what lies ahead.

When we take care of ourselves, we are able to show up for others in a more meaningful way.

And we can glorify God and give love more freely as Jesus called us to do when we have taken the time to refill our own love tank.

What Does The Bible Say About Self-Care?

Ready to see what the almighty has to say about taking care of your mind, body, and spirit? Then check out these bible verses about self-care!


1. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

Our bodies are a sacred gift and we are to take care of them as such. This means eating healthy foods, exercising, getting enough sleep, and avoiding harmful substances. When we take care of our bodies, we are honoring our creator.

2. “And he said to them, “The sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the sabbath” (Mark 2:27-28).

The Lord gave us the Sabbath as a day of rest and rejuvenation. It is a day to focus on our relationship with Him and recharge our batteries. When we take a day of rest, we are imitating God and following His example.

3. “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31).

Waiting on the Lord does not mean sitting around idly engaging in self-indulgence, it means having faith and trust in God’s timing.

Self-care, according to God’s word, means taking care of ourselves emotionally and spiritually so that we can be ready when He calls us to action.

When we take care of ourselves, we are renewing our strength.

4.“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).

What we think about affects our overall well-being.

When we fill our minds with positive, uplifting thoughts, it has a ripple effect on the rest of our lives and we can see God’s handiwork in all things.

On the other hand, if we allow negative, self-destructive thoughts or even sexual immorality to take root in our minds, it will affect our mood, our behavior, and our overall health.

5.“A cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22).

It’s important to deal with our emotions in a healthy way.

Bottling up our emotions can lead to physical and mental health problems. On the other hand, if we express our emotions in a constructive way, it can lead to healing and growth.

6.“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Healthy relationships are vital for our well-being.

When we have supportive relationships, we feel loved and valued.

We also feel more connected and less isolated.

These relationships provide us with a sense of belonging, which is essential for our mental health.

7.“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer, and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1-2).

Our spiritual life is just as important as our physical and mental health.

When we have a strong relationship with God, we are better able to cope with the challenges of life.

We also feel more hopeful and purposeful.

God cares for us and has before we were in our mother’s womb. He sent his only son to give us eternal life, he doesn’t want us to have heavy-laden hearts.

His desire is for us to fix our eyes on him, and he will be the source of our strength and hope.

8.“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

Worry and stress can take a toll on our mental and physical health.

When we pray, we are giving our worries and concerns to God.

We are also asking for His peace and guidance.

As we let go of our anxiety and trust in the almighty, we will find His peace guarding our hearts and minds.

9.“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3).

When we are going through a difficult time, it’s important to remember that God is with us.

He knows our pain and He wants to heal us.

He will bind up our wounds and give us hope for the future.

If you find yourself dealing with a stressful situation or going through a difficult time, please remember- our father prepared a way.

You may not see it just yet, but don’t lose hope.

10. “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (Psalm 23:1-6).

This beloved Psalm is a reminder that we can always find hope and comfort in God.

No matter what we are going through, He is with us.

He will lead us along the right path and He will provide for our needs.

His love will never fail us, and we can rest in His promises forever.

11. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

When we are feeling anxious or stressed, we can cast our cares onto Him.

He wants to help us and will carry our burdens for us.

We can trust that He will take care of us and give us the strength we need to get through everything.

12. “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10).

In this world, there is so much noise and so many distractions.

It can be difficult to find time to be still and know that God is in control.

But when we take the time to quiet our minds and listen for His voice, we will find peace and strength.

13. “I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13).

When we feel like we can’t go on, we need to remember that the Lord is our strength.

He will help us through everything and will give us the power to do what is impossible.

With Him, we can overcome anything.

14. “The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1).

When we are feeling afraid or alone, we can always turn to the father. He is our light and our salvation.

The Holy Bible says that He will protect us and never leave us.

We can trust Him to be our stronghold in life.

15. “But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.” (1 Peter 3:4)

This verse is a reminder that true beauty comes from the inside.

When we have a gentle and quiet spirit, it pleases God and He will take care of us.

We don’t need to worry about our outward appearance because He sees the beauty in our hearts.

16. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

This scripture tells us that even when things are tough, we can trust that God is working everything out for our good.

He has a purpose for our lives and He will use everything to help us achieve it.

We can have hope in Him, no matter what we are facing.

17. “Come to me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

When we are feeling overwhelmed, we can always turn to Jesus.

He will give us rest and He will help us to find peace. We can trust Him to carry our burdens for us and He will give us the strength we need to get through everything.

18.”The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)

This verse is such a comfort and a great reminder that our creator is in control and we can always count on Him.

He will never leave us or forsake us.

We can trust Him to be with us and give us the strength we need to get through anything.

19. “Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.” (Isaiah 64:8)

This verse is a reminder that God is our Father and we are His children.

He created us and has a plan for our lives.

We can trust Him to mold us and shape us into who He wants us to be.

With Him, we can become everything He has created us to be.

20. “How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.” (Psalm 36:7)

God loves us.

We are His children and we can take refuge in Him.

He will protect us and will never leave us.

We can always trust Him to be our stronghold and our protector.

21. “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)

We are told not to conform to the world.

We are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.

To do this, we can test things and discern what is of God.

This will help us to know His will for our lives and what is good and acceptable to Him.

22. “And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

What an important reminder that God will supply all of our needs.

He is rich in glory and will provide for us.

We can trust Him to take care of us and He will never leave us wanting.

23. “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16)

Yes, we are God’s temple.

And because of that, His Spirit dwells within us.

This is such a comfort to know that we are never alone.

He is always with us, guiding and directing our lives.

24.“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.” (Psalm 46:5)

This is such a beautiful and reassuring verse.

It tells us that God is within us and we will not fall.

He will help us when we need it most.

We can always count on Him to be there for us.

25.“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

This is another great verse that tells us not to fear.

God is with us and He will help us.

He will strengthen us and uphold us.

26.“And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39)

This is one of the most important commands in the Bible.

It tells us to love God with all our hearts, soul, and mind.

And it also tells us to love our neighbor as ourselves.

If we can do this, then we will be well on our way to living a life that is pleasing to God.

27.“For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church” (Ephesians 5:29)

This verse tells us that we need to love ourselves.

We are blessed to be living in God’s temple and should nourish and cherish it.

Just as Christ loves and cherishes the church.

If we can add self-care just as we add spiritual worship to our day then we will be loving ourselves in the way that God intended.

28.“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

This is one of my favorite verses. It’s so comforting and reassuring in times of uncertainty.

It tells us that God has plans for us.

Good plans.

Plans to prosper us and give us hope for the future.

We can trust Him to lead and guide our lives.

29. “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail” (Isaiah 58:11).

This verse tells us that God blessed us and will guide us and satisfy our needs.

He is always there for us, like a freshwater spring, never running dry. We can trust Him to lead and provide for us.


How Can A Christian Practice Self-Care?

Wondering what self-care actually means and simple ways to put it into practice in everyday life?

Here are a few tips that might help!

1. Pray and read your bible daily

This is the best way to connect with God and receive His strength and peace.

Make it a priority to set aside time each day to commune with Him.

It can take a little self-discipline to make time and stick to it because so much is competing for our attention, but just reading even a few of these scripture quotations can help you get into the right mindset so you can hear the holy spirit speaking to your heart.

2. Keep a prayer journal

Another great way to connect with the Father is to keep a prayer journal.

Writing down your thoughts and prayers can help you to hear the Holy Spirit more clearly.

It’s also a great way to look back and see how He has been working in your life over time.

3. Get enough sleep

Sleep is important for our overall health and wellness. Without it, we just can’t function at our best.

In other words, it’s hard to bear fruit when you’re exhausted.

And while it’s true that God can work miracles, he also gave us the need to sleep so we can be refreshed in mind, body, and spirit.

So, check “go to bed early” off of your self-care list and snuggle in!

4. Eat healthy foods

Eating nutritious foods helps our bodies to function properly and feel good. Eating junk food destroys God’s temple and feeling poor lends to a negative outlook and attitude.

So, take care of your temple by feeding it healthy foods! Your body (and self-esteem) will thank you for it.

5. Exercise

Exercise is a great way to release endorphins, improve our mood, and reduce stress. It’s also a great way to get in touch with our physical bodies and appreciate the gift of movement that we have been given.

So, take a brisk walk, go for a swim, or join a local gym. Just choose an activity you like and get moving!

6. Spend time with friends and family

Spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress and promote positive emotions. It’s a great way to connect with others and feel supported.

So, make time for those you care about and let them know how much they mean to you.

7. Take breaks when needed

If we are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, it is important to take a break. This can mean taking a few minutes to yourself to relax and rejuvenate or it could mean taking a day or two off from work or other obligations.

Whatever it looks like for you, make sure to listen to your body and give yourself the break you need.

8. Serve others

One great way to fill your heart as well as someone else’s is to be like Jesus and serve others.

When we serve others, we are reminded of how blessed we are and that there are people in this world who need our help.

So, find a local charity or community organization that you can volunteer with on a regular basis.

It will bless you as much as it blesses those you are serving!

9. Connect with nature

Another great way to reduce stress and feel connected to the almighty is to spend time in nature.

Go for a walk in the park, sit by the ocean, or even just look at the stars.

All of these things remind us of the beauty and majesty of God’s creation.

It can help us to feel small in the best way possible and to remember that there is something much bigger than us at work in this world.

10. Practice forgiveness

One of the most important things we can do for our mental and emotional health is to practice forgiveness.

When we forgive others as God forgives us, it helps us to release all of the negativity and resentment that we are holding onto.

It also sets us free from the past so we can move forward with our lives.

So, if you’re holding a grudge, ask Him to help you let it go, heal your wounds, and move past it.


Last Thoughts About Self-Care Bible Verses

Self-care is important for Christians because it helps us to rest, stay connected to God who is our ultimate source of strength and peace, and be refreshed in mind and body.

When we take care of ourselves, we are better able to serve others and be a light in the world.

So, make self-care a priority in your life and find ways to incorporate it into your daily routine.

And, don’t be afraid to take care of yourself! You’re worth it!

Do you have any other favorite bible verses about self-care? Share them in the comments below!


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