When Self-Care Becomes Self-Worship
A hard conversation we need to have in love.
Let me say this plainly: not everything that feels good is godly.
And in this culture that glorifies “main character energy,” we’ve got to be real with ourselves. Not all “self-care” is holy. Not all boundaries are biblical. Not all glow-ups are God-led.
Some of us have made self-care an idol.
We call it healing, but it’s actually hiding from God behind routines, rituals, and “me time.”
And that’s a problem.
The Real Definition of Self-Care (God’s Way)
God’s version of self-care doesn’t require applause, aesthetics, or performance.
It’s quiet. Sacred. Intentional.
It’s...
Taking a break not because you’re lazy but because God commanded rest.
Saying “no” to things that pull you out of alignment with Him.
Feeding your soul in ways that lead you back to His presence.
True self-care submits.
It surrenders.
It trusts.
What Self-Exaltation Looks Like (Even When It’s Dressed Up in Scripture)
It’s subtle.
It feels empowering.
But it’s a counterfeit version of rest—where you’re still on the throne.
You’re chasing a “soft life,” but you don’t trust God with your hard places.
You’re loud about boundaries but silent in prayer.
You’re glowing, but you’re not growing.
You’re giving “peace and alignment,” but there’s no evidence of submission.
Self-exaltation turns your image into the idol.
And that’s not healing—that’s hiding from transformation.
Ask Yourself Honestly, Sis:
Did I consult God about this “boundary” I set, or did I just get tired of people?
Would I still do this if no one clapped for me?
Am I inviting God into how I care for myself?
Is this routine drawing me closer to the Cross or just helping me escape discomfort?
You can’t heal if you’re also hiding.
You can’t serve if your self-care makes you unavailable to God’s call.
You can’t glorify God if your entire wellness journey is centered on you.
Here’s the Truth:
Self-care is necessary.
But self-worship is deadly.
One leads to rest.
The other leads to pride.
One keeps God at the center.
The other puts you on the altar and dares the world not to bow.
So What Do We Do Now?
We get honest. We repent. We invite God back into our rest.
We say:
“Lord, if I’ve turned my routines into idols, show me.
If I’ve called it healing but it’s actually avoidance, correct me.
If I’ve crowned myself, dethrone me.
You can have it all—even the parts of me I thought were ‘self-care.’”
Your Healing Isn’t About the Hype.
You don’t need a soft life if it makes you spiritually hard.
You don’t need luxury if your soul is bankrupt.
You don’t need “that girl” energy if you’re not walking in daughterhood.
God’s version of care is eternal.
And He’ll care for you better than any journal, bath bomb, or therapy session ever could (though He can use those too).
But only if He’s at the center—not you.
Ready to Go Deeper?
Sis, don’t just read it—reflect on it.
Download the “Self-Care vs. Self-Exaltation” Devotional Worksheet and take this conversation to your quiet time with God.
📖 Includes:
Heart check questions
Scripture study
Journal space
A guided prayer
A daily affirmation to keep you grounded
Let this be more than a blog post. Let it be a moment of healing and holy conviction.