Marriner’s Moment: REnewing the Spirit, Soul and Body – Part 2

By Pastor Melvin O. Marriner
Grove Church

As we consider the importance of renewing the spirit, soul and body, we must understand that the relationship is a complex but very real connection. For example, most of us are affected by how we handle the stress that life brings. If stress is left unchecked, it takes its toll on our physical body. Faith (or our connection with Christ) can help us cope with our life experiences, enabling the impact of stress to be less significant. There are times, however, when we try to cope with stress through other avenues apart from our relationship with Christ, such as addictions and other methods of escape or avoidance. Our day-to-day thinking also influences our emotions and feelings, and can have a major impact on our behavior. Similarly, our thoughts can play a significant role in our emotional and physical health.

Too often, many of us spend our time caring for and worrying about others, instead of taking care of ourselves. We take on the burdens of the world, our families, our co-workers and our neighbors, all with the goal of pleasing others while negating ourselves. We feel guilty if we’re doing nothing because there is so much that needs to be done, but here’s a news flash: there is nothing wrong with taking a little ‘me time.’ Taking care of yourself – whether it’s a vacation or a stay-cation – is good for the spirit, soul and body.

At Grove, we suspend ministry activities during August just so everyone can take a breather and decompress. Life is difficult and ministry can be even more difficult because, in addition to dealing and coping with our own challenges and issues, those who work in ministry frequently put their lives on the back burner to assist others. Life can be challenging, but I encourage you not to become so bogged down that you neglect yourself and your needs. Find ways to renew your spirit, soul and body.

© Dr. Melvin O. Marriner,
August 2016

We invite you to join us at Grove Church, 5910 West Norfolk Road, Portsmouth, Virginia, Sundays at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., Tuesdays at noon and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.