Ephesians 1:7-8 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.

What does this verse have to do with care-giving? Good question. It tells us that as believers we have nothing to boast about except the grace that God has lavished on us through Christ. We did not deserve it and can’t earn it. He did it all because of his great love. The dictionary defines this grace as “the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings.”

So who in your family circle or sphere of influence needs you to be gracious to them, to freely extend grace in the way you have received grace? “But you don’t understand. He/she is working my last nerve!” I hear you loud and clear.  There is probably no greater responsibility in the world than caring for another human being, especially if that person is bitter and cruel at the same time. As far as the physical aspects of care-giving are concerned, reach out for help and relief if you need it. It could be critical for your own survival.

Beyond the physical aspects though, you will need to ask the Lord to give you his perspective on your situation. It may be that this is His assignment for you for the time being. Would it change your thinking if you understood that you are where you are and doing what you do because God has ordained it so? Has it ever occurred to you that what you are doing is ministry? Is it possible that God can reveal himself to you in ways you never thought possible and allow you to find peace and joy in what you are doing? “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24).