We start the new year encouraged to dig deeper within ourselves. We focus on self improvement. I don’t call things resolutions anymore, but I do try to make one little turn of the dial toward a better me.

I’m starting the new year with an increased focus on my physical health. The changes that come with age has me fighting back. I have started a strength training program called Dig Deeper created by Shaun T. It is pushing me to my limits in a good way.

I want to be the best version of me. I want to be stronger, healthier and more confident. BUT, the purpose of this can’t be just about me. There has to be a greater purpose in it. It has to be so that I can live out God’s call on my life in service to others.

^34-36 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what’s coming to you in this kingdom. It’s been ready for you since the world’s foundation. And here’s why: I was hungry and you fed me,
I was thirsty and you gave me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave me a room,
I was shivering and you gave me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to me.’ (Matthew 25:34-36 MSG)

^9-10 Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle. ^11-13 Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality. (Romans 12:9-13 MSG).

Loving from the center of who I am requires self care. To not burn out, I need to stay fueled. All of this is to generously serve those around me not out of obligation but out of love. As I dig deeper, I need to remind myself of God’s purpose in my place of health and privilege. It is to give back. The world would love for me to simply stay focused on self, but our lives are meant for so much more.

Do you work on your wellbeing? Do you turn up the dial at the new year? Does it propel you to give back? Share your story here and breathe life and bring hope to others.