Maintain Joy as a Caregiver

 "Those sowing seed with tears will reap a joyful shout." - PSALM 126:5. 

MY WIFE and I have been married for over 32 years," says a brother from Korea named Jin-yeol. "For the past five years, I have been her caregiver. She suffers from Parkinson disease and hardly move. I love and cherish my wife, and I enjoy caring for her. Each night, she sleeps in a hospital bed. I sleep next to her, and we hold hands while we sleep. 

Are you a caregiver for someone you love, such as your parent,  mate, child, or friend? If so, you likely appreciate the unique privilege of helping him or her in such a personal way. And by caring for your loved one, you should your devotion to Jehovah. (1 Timothy 5:4, 8; James 1:27) Still, you face challenges that often go unnoticed by others. At times, you may even feel that you are the only one suffering. You may outwardly smile, but when you by yourself, you cannot hold back your tears. (Psalm 6:6) While others may not be aware of your struggles, Jehovah always is. (Compare Exodus 3:7) Your tears and sacrifices are precious to him. (Psalm 56:8; 126:5) He notices everything you do to help your loved one. He considers himself to be indebted to you and promises  to repay you. - Read PROVERBS 29:17. 

Next time: Maintain Your Joy as a Caregiver - Conclusion

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