Today's daily devotion

Bearing in Love

Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses…in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love…and in the power of God.—2 CORINTHIANS 6:4–7 NIV

A young woman worked diligently to care for her ailing father. Each day she drove several miles to the local cancer hospital, knowing the difficult task that awaited her when she arrived. Seeing the man who’d always been so strong and independent in such a worn-down state always took its toll on her emotions. And his reaction to the pain only complicated the situation, as he said and did things—harsh things—completely out of character. What could she possibly say or do to help?

Can you relate to this woman’s story? Maybe you’re caring for someone in an extended illness. Perhaps the pressure is great and your sacrifice huge. Maybe you’re losing patience, feeling as if nothing you do makes a difference.

But your presence at the bedside of an ailing friend or loved one is so important. And your God-given ability to bear with that person—in love—as they work their way through the pain will grow you into the caregiver the Lord wants you to be.

Patience, friend! Allow the Lord—who bore all things for us— to shape you into His image.