Today we will talk about bible verses about putting yourself first. Many Christians may find this concept a little confusing. We often hear about loving our neighbors, serving others, and not being selfish. Yet, there are moments when putting ourselves first is important to fuel our spirit, care for our well-being, and grow in faith. It’s about creating a balance that allows us to care for ourselves so we can more effectively care for others. So, let’s be in a reflective mode as we read through God’s word and discover how putting ourselves first aligns with Biblical principles.
Bible Verses About Putting Yourself First
Self-Care is Not Selfish
In our journey of faith, we often neglect the importance of self-care. It’s not about being selfish; rather, it’s about replenishing our own energy and spirit so that we can serve others more effectively. The Bible reminds us in several verses that it’s crucial to maintain our spiritual, emotional, and physical health. By engaging in self-care, we are honoring the body and soul that God has given us.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“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
Mark 12:31
“The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” – Mark 12:31
Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – Matthew 11:28-30
Psalm 23:1-3
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.” – Psalm 23:1-3
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Setting Boundaries
Setting boundaries is an essential part of putting ourselves first. It’s important to recognize that we can’t help others if we are drained and overwhelmed. The Bible teaches us that it’s okay to say “no.” Establishing boundaries allows us to maintain our spiritual health. When we protect our time and space, we can invest in relationships and activities that bring joy and growth.
Galatians 6:5
“For each one should carry their own load.” – Galatians 6:5
Proverbs 18:1
“An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.” – Proverbs 18:1
Matthew 5:37
“All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” – Matthew 5:37
Luke 10:41-42
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” – Luke 10:41-42
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” – 2 Corinthians 6:14
Recognizing Our Worth
God created us in His image, and that means we are valuable and worthy. Coming to terms with our self-worth can enhance our Christian walk. When we recognize our worth as beloved children of God, it’s easier to put ourselves first when needed. Understanding our value helps us make decisions where we prioritize our spiritual growth and health without guilt.
Romans 8:37
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” – Romans 8:37
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Matthew 10:31
“So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” – Matthew 10:31
Jeremiah 29:11
“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
Embracing Rest
Rest is a divine act, and it’s essential to recognize the importance of taking a break. God Himself rested on the seventh day as an example for us. In our fast-paced world, we must prioritize rest to re-energize and keep our focus aligned with God’s purpose for our lives. Embracing rest makes us more effective in our daily tasks and responsibilities.
Exodus 20:8-10
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.” – Exodus 20:8-10
Mark 6:31
“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.'” – Mark 6:31
Psalm 127:2
“In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves.” – Psalm 127:2
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
The Power of Prayer
Prayer is a powerful tool we have to communicate with God. When we prioritize time for prayer, we are essentially putting ourselves first in our spiritual journey. Through prayer, we can reflect, rejuvenate, and realign our focus with God’s desires for us. Making prayer a priority not only benefits our mental state but also enhances our relationship with God.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6-7
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
1 Thessalonians 5:17
“Pray continually.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Colossians 4:2
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” – Colossians 4:2
Matthew 6:6
“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” – Matthew 6:6
Receiving God’s Love
Understanding God’s love is vital for us as we seek to put ourselves first. His love fills our hearts and inspires us to love ourselves as He does. When we receive and accept God’s love, it empowers us to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Embracing God’s love helps us to see ourselves as valuable and worthy, influencing how we interact with the world around us.
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
Ephesians 3:17-19
“… and I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.” – Ephesians 3:17-19
Psalm 136:1
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” – Psalm 136:1
Jeremiah 31:3
“The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.'” – Jeremiah 31:3
Trusting God’s Plan
Putting ourselves first also means trusting God’s plan for our lives. Life can be confusing, and we may often feel lost. However, by putting our faith in God’s plan, we can find peace and reassurance. He is always working for our good, and trusting Him helps us prioritize our lives in ways that align with His vision for us.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Jeremiah 29:11
“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
Isaiah 55:8-9
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” – Isaiah 55:8-9
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6
Finding Joy in Our Journey
Lastly, putting ourselves first means finding joy in our Christian walk. This journey isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress and enjoying the moments. The Bible encourages us to rejoice, and when we focus on the joy God has placed in our hearts, we can navigate life’s challenges with a brighter perspective. Joy is a reflection of God’s love and is essential in our faith journey.
Nehemiah 8:10
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10
Philippians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4
Psalm 16:11
“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” – Psalm 16:11
John 15:11
“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” – John 15:11
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
Final Thoughts
In our exploration of the Bible verses about putting ourselves first, we’ve highlighted how self-care, boundaries, recognition of our self-worth, rest, prayer, accepting God’s love, trusting His plan, and embracing joy can play vital roles in our faith journey. Each of these aspects helps us cultivate a balanced spiritual life that allows us not only to rejuvenate but also to serve others effectively.
As we navigate our lives, let’s remember that prioritizing ourselves is essential for our spiritual health and well-being. God wants us to be whole and joyful, and when we nurture ourselves, we can bring more love and kindness into the world around us.
May we feel inspired to put ourselves first in ways that are pleasing to God, helping us grow into the individuals he calls us to be.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4