July 16: Finding Support for you: getting the help you need
Everyone hits a wall now and then in life. Whether you are a career professional, a new parent or spouse, or have lived many decades, you can think of times when you faced something that seemed insurmountable. As a family caregiver, you probably experience days where you feel you don’t have an ounce of care left to give. Every family caregiver has been there or needs to be warned that those days will come over time.
Truth is, being a caregiver of any kind is hard work, and not for the weak. When you feel like giving up and throwing in the towel, remember that you are not alone in this struggle. Many have experienced what you are going through and may have suggestions to help you get through the difficult times, but it’s up to you to send up an SOS and ask for help. Your family and friends can’t read your mind, and God didn’t put you on this path to let you fail. He will give you the strength to endure and the resources you need to do what you must. Some of those resources might just be your family and friends, but you might not ever know this if you don’t make your needs known.
One thing about our God: He’s never a minute late, or a second early. He does things in His own perfect time. God exists outside the boundaries of our chronology, so He has the ability to know when the exact moment is for His solution or resource to have the greatest effect on your situation. The Holy Spirit knows your needs and He will supply everything necessary for you to provide the care your loved one requires. His one requirement is for you to put all your trust in Him and acknowledge His presence and His working in your life and circumstances. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us that when we do this, He will direct our paths. From my perspective, that’s the best place to be, on the path God has shown me!
God also knows when you need others to step in and give you a break. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from the people around you who know about your situation and care about you and your loved one. Watch to see how God stirs their hearts and opens up their ability to provide support and assistance in His perfect way. Then, when He does, share your story to encourage others in their time of need.
Betsy and I hope you’ll join us this week here at Heart of the Caregiver and share your heart about how God supports and provides for every need in your caregiving journey.
Heart of the Caregiver 