Finding Encouragement in Scripture During the Holidays
When caring for a family member with health challenges, this time of year can be extremely stressful with the added demands of the holidays. It is important to remember where your strength and hope ultimately comes from; and to know that the job you are doing is enough. Below are some scripture reminders to help encourage you along your caregiving journey this season.
- God promises that his yoke is easy if we choose to cast our worries upon Him. He can handle the moments that we feel unable to so long as we will allow Him. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.
- During times when you feel alone, Joshua 1:9 tells us differently. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
- When you feel worry is getting the best of you it can be helpful to turn each specific worry into a prayer to God. In Philippians 4:6-7 we are instructed, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, through prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
- For those days when you feel like you could’ve done a better job, been more patient, had more self-control and grace, remember “love never fails,” and the work and care that you provide is acting with love. No one is perfect except the creator of the universe. Leave room for some grace and love for yourself.
- If you feel as if you have lost their identity in the busyness of daily demands. Through scripture we can be reminded of who and whose we are. “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”-Psalm 139:1-3.
- When caring for a loved one, remember you are doing God’s work here on earth, and nothing could be more important or special. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these, you did for me,” Matthew 25:40.
If you, a friend or family member living with memory loss would be interested in learning more about our Memory Ministry or our Memory Cafe, please contact Vicky Pitner at vpitner@firstumc.org