We do not naturally drift toward holiness. The Bible shows this clearly from the time of the original sin. Man has repeatedly moved away from the LORD to follow the myriad gods of other nations, as well as his own desires. Even today, with the help of the Holy Spirit, we must be intentional in our efforts to walk according to God’s commandments.

Family caregiving can feel like walking on uneven ground. Each day we make decisions for the care of our loved one, carry varied responsibilities, and battle exhaustion that seeps in like a morning fog. We stumble through our daily lives, wondering where we are going and what will happen next. Jude’s words speak directly to the fragile place we find ourselves when we feel lost and are susceptible to letting false teachings worm their way into our Christian walk.

Caregiving has a way of exposing our limits. There are days our bodies ache, our patience is worn thin, and our hearts are heavy with decisions that no one else sees. In these moments, it is wonderful to look on scriptures such as these and remember that God does not grow weary, even when we do.

Humble service is the foundation upon which caregiving is built. It is putting someone else’s interests ahead of your own on a daily basis, even when it comes at a personal loss. Most caregivers I have met have no problem with this, but I want to encourage you to look deeper than time and money commitments. Spiritual nourishment and Christian unity are also important.

This scripture should bring deep relief to people. Despite what the world will tell you, salvation is not something we earn, achieve, or maintain by effort. It is not a reward for being a “good person.” It is a gift—freely given— by God, received through faith.