Humans have a very good defense system built into them. It is for survival and protection. Some call it human instinct. This defense mechanism can sometimes become barriers to our growth and learning. Our body quickly recalls experiences, emotions when we face scenarios that previously hurt us or cause us embarrassment. Our body and mind then are ready to "fight back" to prevent hurt or embarrassment. Understanding that can help us ease situations where such tension is not necessary. When we hear things like 2 Timothy 3, that in the last days, people will be lovers of themselves, we can quickly put up a defense not to become such a person. This defense can swing us to the extreme belief that we should not love ourselves. That is not what the passage trying to achieve. Loving ourselves is fundamental. Remember that the second greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself? In many instances, loving ourselves is required in order that we love others. Love in this instance is nourished and cherish as in Ephesians 5:29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourish and cherish it, even as the Lord the church: How can one who cannot take care of himself take care of another? If you are in a lifesaver ministry, the golden rule is to make sure your own safety is not compromised before saving the victim. That is a wise lifesaver.

May we learn to nourish and cherish ourselves so that we can nourish and cherish others. Proverbs 19:8 He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good. Inspired by Josh Mcdowell session in Singapore. Image Credit Google Image