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Annette Buell - Author.

Have you ever flown? If not, let me enlighten you.

You walk down this aisle that resembles your childhood school bus—about the same width—on your way to find your assigned seat. All the while, you’re praying that no one is seated in the aisle seat across from you. Putting your carry-on in the overhead compartment without putting your derriere in someone’s face can sometimes be a challenge.

You climb into your seat and try to get comfortable.

Then a pleasant flight attendant comes over the loudspeaker, giving you directions on how to buckle your seatbelt. She points out the exit doors (like you’re going to use them at 37,000 feet going 500 mph) and explains how to put on your oxygen mask. She emphasizes putting your own mask on first before helping someone else with theirs.

Wait, what? Keep yourself breathing before helping my neighbor breathe?

Oh yeah! If I’m not breathing, how can I help my neighbor?

Now, let me be clear—I’m not saying you should put your mask on and then say, “Hey dude, you’re on your own.”

I remember my Aunt Darlene saying that she gets her house in order first thing, just in case someone calls and needs help. Hmm… should I make sure my family and I have clean clothes, something to eat, and a clean home before running out the door to help the neighbor lady?

Then I read the rest of the story… as thyself.

Matthew 22:39 – “And the second is like unto it: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”

Could Proverbs 11:1 be talking about a balance far beyond just weights and measures?

Proverbs 11:1 – “A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight.”

“If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” — Mother Teresa

So how do we love ourselves in a way that helps us love others?

  • Maybe by putting God first in our lives? (Matthew 6:33; 2 John 1:6; Psalm 32:6)
  • Should we be kind to ourselves? (1 Corinthians 13)
  • Are we taking care of ourselves? (1 Corinthians 6:19–20)
  • Are we getting proper rest? (Genesis 2:2–3)

You’re going to feel unbalanced for a while, but in the end, you’ll find a healthy balance—caring for yourself, your family, and your neighbor.

  • How can you care for someone else while lying in a hospital bed?
  • Remember, even God rested.

Believe me, this journey is going to be hard. You’re going to have to learn the word no. You’re going to have to be a little protective of your time.

God’s promises to hold on to during this journey:

  • Psalm 32:6 – “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” (NKJV)
  • Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (NKJV)