There are times as a family caregiver that we feel stuck. We don’t know which way is forward, we feel cornered by impossible situations, and we wonder when the pressure will be alleviated. Then fear makes us wonder if God is still working in our lives.

Caregiving can be an isolating experience. Moments of doubt creep in when we have no one around to encourage us to stay rooted in the Word of God or to pray. Add in a dash of frustration, a pinch of exhaustion, and it is a recipe to wonder if we are beyond the compassionate care of God.

Caregiving brings out the best in us. It can also bring out the worst, if we are being honest. Fatigue, frustration, guilt and impatience can start to take over for compassion, love, and kindness. You may even find yourself thinking, “I shouldn’t behave this way…I should be stronger…I should be more patient.”

I’ve been putting a lot of thought into what makes a successful caregiving household. It is easy to make a list of attributes that help things run smoothly: caregivers that are well trained; a house that can accommodate medical needs; financial stability. These things all help of course, but they are not the key component. The true linchpin to a successful household—especially one shaped by caregiving—is whether or not the household is centered on Christ.

Family caregiving is the sort of activity that will leave you feeling drained physically, tired emotionally, and even spiritually empty. You give so much of yourself by pouring out love and care on your loved one that you may forget to seek renewal for yourself. God offers strength that doesn’t run out.