Faith Conversations for Christ Followers
The role of caregiving for a loved one is a physically, emotionally, and even spiritually demanding one. But, just as any other season of life, it can be one that leads us into a deeper dependence upon and love for God (2 Corinthians 1:9-10).
Video #1 The Journey of Caregiving
Psalm 84. The journey of caregiving is actually a part of our larger spiritual journey. Regardless of what season of life we might find ourselves in, it’s essential to keep our hearts “set on pilgrimage” (verse 5). We find oases of refreshment, even in the most difficult or desolate places of caregiving, when our hearts are set on the One who knows us the best and loves us most (verses 6-7). Our anticipation of reaching the destination prevents us from becoming overly fatigued by the journey (2 Corinthians 4:16-18; 1 Peter 1:8-9).
Video #2 Ducks in a Row
Luke 16:1-9. As Christ followers, the principle of getting your “ducks in a row” applies to every aspect of our lives. The manager in Jesus’ parable was commended, not for his dishonesty, but rather for his shrewdness. The manager assessed his present situation and acted in ways to “position” himself, thereby securing his future. In short, he lived with the end in mind. When it comes to providing for and blessing those around us, this means recognizing significant moments—rich with opportunity—and acting in deliberate and decisive ways.
Video #3 The Feelings of Caregiving
Psalm 77. The demands of caregiving can give rise to anguished bewilderment, and at times, even doubt. When you face the unknowns in your life, as a person of faith it is always comforting to affirm what you DO know. The psalms help us to process strong emotions like grief, guilt, anger, and feelings of loneliness or abandonment in ways that can bring encouragement, strength and hope. As G. Campbell Morgan once said, “Our joy is proportional to our trust; our trust is in proportion to our knowledge of God.”
Video #4 Oxygen Masks
Exodus 34:21 and/or Matthew 11:28-30. We are called to live in the finished work of God (Hebrews 4:3). This not only means trusting in God’s provision for our eternal salvation, but also placing confidence in his daily provision. Carving out time for rest and reflection, even during the most demanding of times (plowing season and harvest), reminds us that life is not something to be grasped, but rather something given by our gracious God.
Video #5 Preventing the Unthinkable
Romans 12:9-21. The greatest commandment is to love God and one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). But sometimes it is hardest to love those who are closest to us. Scripture provides practical instruction for loving the difficult people in our lives:
- Manage your mouth—use your words as a way of blessing and encouragement (verse 14).
- Trade places—learn to empathize with the situation and emotions of others (verses 15-16).
- Never take revenge—refuse the temptation to strike back when hurt (verses 17-19).
- Do what love demands—give thought for another’s best interest, then act on it (verse 20).
Relying on God’s strength and giving thought to these strategies will help you take the offensive, and overcome evil with good.
Video #6 Know Your Resources
Hebrews 10:24-25. Encouragement changes everything. It is a critical component of every family or community, of every life. God gathers his people on a consistent basis, in part, so that we might give deliberate thought as to how to encourage one another to face the day, to do what’s right, to take risks, to make a difference.