Taking care of yourself is more than just eating right or getting enough sleep—it’s about honoring the life God gave you. In today’s busy world, self-care often gets pushed aside in the name of productivity or self-sacrifice. But the Bible reminds us that our well-being matters to God. He created us in His image and calls us to care for our physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
Spiritual self-care is not selfish; it’s a way to be more present, purposeful, and effective in your relationships and in your calling. When we’re rested, renewed, and aligned with God’s Word, we can love others better and serve more faithfully.
These 15 powerful Bible verses about taking care of yourself remind us that caring for our bodies and minds is part of a God-honoring life.
1. 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.
Explanation:
This verse teaches that our bodies are sacred and should be treated with care and respect. Taking care of ourselves is one way we honor God’s presence within us.
2. 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.”
Explanation:
Even Jesus encouraged rest. This verse shows that taking a break and restoring your energy is important for your well-being and spiritual strength.
3. Proverbs 4:23
Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
Explanation:
Self-care includes emotional and spiritual boundaries. Guarding your heart helps protect your peace and maintain healthy relationships.
4. Matthew 22:39
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
Explanation:
This verse reminds us that loving others begins with a healthy love for ourselves. You can’t pour into others if you’re spiritually or emotionally empty.
5. 3 John 1:2
Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.
Explanation:
John’s prayer shows that God cares about our physical health just as much as our spiritual growth. Both are important and interconnected.
6. 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.
Explanation:
Rest is a gift from God. Overworking can lead to burnout, but trusting God includes trusting Him to provide as we care for ourselves.
7. Ecclesiastes 3:1
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.
Explanation:
This verse encourages balance. Self-care means recognizing the need for both work and rest, knowing each has its season.
8. Philippians 4:13
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Explanation:
Caring for yourself also means relying on God’s strength. With His help, you can find the energy and courage to set boundaries and prioritize your health.
9. 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.
Explanation:
Spiritual renewal is a powerful form of self-care. When we turn to God in faith, He gives us strength beyond our own abilities.
10. Proverbs 17:22
A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
Explanation:
Emotional health matters to God. Joy and laughter are part of a healthy life, while neglecting emotional care can deeply affect us.
11. Genesis 2:2-3
By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.
Explanation:
Even God rested. This passage establishes a divine pattern that reminds us rest and rhythm are essential to a healthy, God-honoring life.
12. Matthew 11:28
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Explanation:
When life feels overwhelming, Jesus invites us to rest in Him. Spiritual self-care starts with coming to God for peace and renewal.
13. 1 Kings 19:5-6
Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.
Explanation:
Elijah was burned out and depressed, and God’s answer began with rest and food. This story reminds us that God meets both our spiritual and physical needs.
14. Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Explanation:
Working hard is good, but when done for the Lord—not for burnout—it brings purpose. Self-care means working with balance, not to exhaustion.
15. Psalm 139:14
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Explanation:
You are God’s creation—worthy of love, care, and respect. Taking care of yourself is not prideful, it’s an act of gratitude for the life God has given you.
A Life of Faith Includes Self-Care
These 15 Bible verses about taking care of yourself reveal that self-care is not a modern trend—it’s rooted in scripture. God cares about every part of your being—body, mind, and soul. When you care for yourself, you’re honoring His creation and equipping yourself to serve Him and others more effectively.
So, don’t feel guilty about taking time to rest, to heal, or to say “no” when you need to. Remember, God calls you to live fully and fruitfully, and that starts with caring for the life He entrusted to you.
We’d love to hear from you.
What’s your favorite Bible verse about taking care of yourself? Share your thoughts, personal stories, or encouragement in the comments—your words may bless someone else on their journey.