Welcome to my annual “Joy to the Soul Summer” series! The first week of the season is a focal point for many things. Most notably, the sun reaches the northernmost part of the sky, giving us the longest day of the year. What is your focus in our sunniest season?

Our goals may range from the places we’ll visit to the books we’ll read to how we’ll gather with family and friends. But will we also take time to reflect, release and replenish?

For many of us, the last two summers have been full of uncertainty. As we navigate various phases of a pandemic, we’re seeking to reengage life in familiar or new ways. With its soaring temperatures and gentle breezes, summertime can be a good time to regroup or reconsider how we thrive.

Here are three ways I’m focusing on soul care this summer. I hope they inspire you too.

As I reflect, I take inventory of my soul. The thoughts lingering in my mind and the desires stirring in my heart provide vital information. Do my preoccupations create encouragement or tension? Do I experience God in the rhythm of my daily living or am I randomly wandering through life?

“Light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 11:7 ESV).

But spending time in the sun gives us more than a reason to reach for something cold to drink. It is also a warm reminder of God’s truth, His light by which we live. Therefore, letting go of anything that lessens my grip on His truth is essential to my well-being.

As I release, I empty the clutter in my soul. Fragments of fear or piles of questions, clog my ability to think clearly about God’s grace in Christ. For through Jesus, not only is the soul saved; it is freed. (Romans 10:9-10 and John 8:36) It’s one of the reasons why release is my one-word this year.

I may not have say-so over every situation, but I can rest in what God has already said.

When I do, I let go of life’s tension and delight in embracing His sovereignty and redemption. The Message Bible puts it this way.

“Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you” (1 Peter 5:7 MSG).

Since God is most careful with us, shouldn’t we be careful with ourselves? Sometimes this means taking time for relaxation. Other times, it may mean taking the time for renewal and restoration.

As I replenish, there is rejuvenation in the soul. If you’ve wrestled with a tough decision or endured a difficult season, you know the drain on the soul is exhausting. But God knows how to restore us.

“For I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish” (Jeremiah 31:25 ESV).

Consider how you’ll receive His restoration this summer. Whether we choose a vacation or staycation, never underestimate time spent in prayer or praise. Quiet moments focusing on a Scripture and receiving their life-giving power does wonders in me. Then new perspectives flood the soul with new energy to enjoy life in new ways — or in ways, I’d forgotten.

What’s bringing joy to your soul this summer? Reflecting, releasing and replenishing are certainly on my list! For the next 5 weeks, join me and a few writing friends as we share ideas for summer reading, hobby and gathering ideas and of course, plenty of encouragement to strengthen our faith in any season.

I hope your summer is filled with unexpected joys!