True Wellness: Hope, Student

Society today seems to be in the midst of an ongoing tension between promoting success at all costs and valuing self-care over self-discipline. In other words, the media tells us to work hard, hustle harder, and do whatever it takes to reach the top, regardless of what we may find when we get there… On the other hand, the “self-care movement” encourages us to stay home, sleep in, and do whatever makes us happy.

As a millennial who is well engaged in the media scene, there have been times of inner conflict when I’ve wondered what is best. Where is the balance between “boss lady” and homebody?

I believe the answer is not found in the flux of society, but rather, in the truth of Scripture.

There have been times in my life that I’ve glorified busyness and put my identity and worth into what I do, rather than who God is. When I am feeding off the energy of a high intensity schedule, it quickly becomes a snowball that grows into an unmanageable calendar and little time for friends, family, or self… let alone God.

It’s not when I am successful that I am well, but when I am satisfied. It is when I am focused on Jesus and completely satisfied in Him that I experience true wellness. However, that is easier said than done.

I have a tendency to worry. I get worked up about small things until they feel like huge things that leave me overwhelmed and defeated. When this happens there are a few things that get me back to feeling like “it is well.”

Circumstances can’t always be changed, but I can seek the One who can change how I feel in the midst of them. There is scripture that I cling to when life feels like too much to handle.

“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” – Psalm 91:1

Jesus said to His apostles in Mark: “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” – Mark 6:31

“Don’t be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Phil 4:6

I also thank God for placing certain people and passions in my life. Having Christ-like people who see my worries and pull me out of my slumps has been such a crucial part of maintaining wellness. We are called to be social beings and part of being a member of a community means “bearing with one another in love” (Eph 4:2).

Paul understood True Wellness. He told the people of Philippi about the contentment he had found in Christ:

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content in whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength” – Phil. 4:11-13

I believe true wellness is not found in success, but in satisfaction in Jesus. When I am wholly, truly, fully, and joyfully satisfied in all that He is, my body, mind, and spirit will be well.

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