Caregiving is a weighty thing. Though we may choose to do the work, we often feel it is heavy with its endless responsibilities, emotional strain, and the ache of watching your loved one struggle. It may feel like you have no pause for rest or know of anyone who truly understands your frustrations.

Peter has many reminders for believers at the end of his letter. The overall thought is this: because God cares for us, all believers can humble themselves before him, submitting to his plan for their lives. Casting our cares on him reflects that we are not so prideful in our own abilities, our own plans, our own decisions, that we cannot relinquish them to the care of him who loves us.

Much the same way that your loved one is relying on your tender care every day, we must trust in the chief Shepherd. He helps us be watchful, sober-minded, and firm in our faith. He knows when you are exhausted or worried. His care of you isn’t abstract; it is personal, long-suffering, and perfect.