J.O.Y

Most Christians know what J.O.Y stands for....Jesus first, Others second, Yourself last.

I want to take a moment to say while this is true, we need to remember that the "Y" is also included....Yourself is included! We need to remember to take care of ourselves, to take time for ourselves, to rest, to nourish ourselves both physically, mentally and spiritually. 

So often this little acronym is used to rebuke and remind us that we should be last on the list. I am not sure this is completely right. Yes, we are not to be selfish and self-centered but we need to remember that unless we replenish ourselves and take care of us, we will quickly run out of energy to give to and do for others. Jesus took time to be alone and pray and spend time with the Father. God gave command to several prophets to go and eat and rest. God himself rested on the seventh day! 

Everything in moderation!!! This little acronym was made to remind us not to become too self involved but it doesn't mean deny self to the point of complete depletion and having nothing left to give back to others or in service to Christ.