Pure exhaustion after heroic deeds can lead to emotional overload. If you find yourself in this place then you are not the only one who has been here. On the day my mom passed away I was ready to collapse. I had been by her bedside for ten days and nights. This was a choice I made because it was where my heart lead me to be. I had survived on very little sleep and was trying to help my dad accept the fact that Mom was leaving us. Dad was living in an assisted living near me and we were having to plan to travel for the funeral service back in their home town.
As soon as Mom passed I had to comfort dad, make travel plans, notify family, do laundry and pack. I could barely function. A fear of not being able to make it through the next few days tormented me. My precious husband took my phone, walked me to our bed and I was asleep before he walked out of the room. After sleep, a meal and shower I was refreshed enough to keep going.
Many of you put in overtime as a caregiver. Some days are intense and challenging. You may become fearful of not being able to maintain the pace. You may fear the coming grief. You may fear life after caregiving.
There was a man in the Bible named Elijah who had performed mighty feats for God. He was so overcome with fear after one of these that he ran for his life. He even prayed to die. God sent an angel to nourish him and he went into a cave. While in the cave there was a mighty wind, an earthquake and a fire. Then finally he heard the still small voice of God. He was challenged and basically told by God that he still had things to do.
I survived and made it through the service and the passing of my dad. God refreshed me and reminded me that I still have things to do. God will refresh you and erase your fears just like He did mine and Elijah’s. Just trust and wait on the still small voice.
Word for Today
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
Song for Today
Prayer for Today
Our Most Loving Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the refreshing when we feel as if we have given our all. Hear our cry for a little hope, a little peace and a whole lot of love. When we are ready to throw in the towel, remind us through your still small voice that we still have things to do. Reassure our hearts that you are enough and we can face our fears.
Thank you for choosing to work through me as I follow after you.
Amen
Walking Them Home 