How is your soul?

Have you thought about it lately? Checked in with it? Given it so much as a passing thought? Probably not. As obsessed as we are about taking care of our bodies, we don’t think very often about the health of our souls.

But we need to. Soul-care is even more important than self-care, because while your body will eventually grow old and deteriorate, your soul is eternal.

The Psalmist wrote that people who ground their lives in God’s presence and His Word are like trees planted by a stream of water. The trees are vibrant and fruitful. Their leaves do not wither. They are strong and healthy; always growing.

As you consider that, remember that in the ancient Middle East, trees were rare. So was rain. A tree without a constant water source could not survive. But if a tree was planted by the river, it did not have to depend on weather conditions. It’s roots snaked deep under the surface to tap into the water supply. You couldn’t see those roots, but you could see the green leaves and the fruit.

When your soul is healthy, it is a like a stream of water flowing from it’s Creator. But when your soul is dry and unhealthy, your whole life feels sick.

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How is your soul?

I didn’t know how neglected mine had been until I got still and asked the question. Our Elders sent me away for a few days to catch my breath and get still. I attended a conference high up in the mountains where I didn’t know anyone, (and since we all wore masks for the entire time, I still don’t really know what anyone looks like). As a result, I didn’t do very much socializing during the retreat. I spent time in silence; in prayer; in reflection – and I finally paid attention to my soul. As the week progressed, I felt like a stream of water began flowing through me again, bringing life to everywhere that had become dry.

From now on, I plan to pay more attention, day-by-day, to the health of my soul. As a preacher, I know that’s the best gift I can give my congregation – fullness and spiritual vitality. People will forget what I say from the pulpit – but if I minister out of fullness, God will flow through me in a powerful way. Of course, that’s not just true for ministers. Or, a better way to say it – we are ALL ministers!

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Jesus said, “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body. Be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Hell.” It is possible to live life in a way that separates you from God, and your soul will wither. Thus: “Protect your soul. Guard it. Make room in your life to care for it.”

We are called to be keepers of our souls. So, how is your soul? Take time today to find out.