One night, I had a dream. I was at a resort in the Caribbean with a friend, and there were some people asking about their luggage, which had not arrived. The clerk at the desk said that they would find it, and one of the people responded, "I'm sure that you will, with God's guidance."

During the past year, for some of us, there have been a number of changes in our lives that require much guidance. There are times when it is difficult for us older people, or for caregivers of any age, to cope. I have talked to and corresponded with several people who are having to handle a personal or family problem. In some cases, it is a spouse with limited capabilities to think, remember, or do the things that he or she was used to doing. I am going through this at the present time myself. There are many hardships for all caregivers and many times when we pray for strength, patience, and guidance. The Bible tells us:

Psalm 55:22a – Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. (NLT)

The Israelites were slaves to the Egyptians for several centuries, but through a series of divine interventions with the pharaoh of the time, they were able to leave their life of slavery. Moses led them through the parted waters of the Red Sea and into the desert.

Exodus 13:21 – The Lord went ahead of them. He guided them during the day with a pillar of cloud, and he provided light at night with a pillar of fire. This allowed them to travel by day or by night. (NLT)

The Lord knew that there would be hardships ahead for His people — both then and now — times of frustration and anger, times of unhappiness when they would wonder if they had been better off in Egypt, times of wondering how long it would take them to get to the Promised Land.

Just as the Lord showed them with the pillar of cloud and fire that He was always with them to guide them on their way, let us thank God as He guides us and gives us the strength to cope as we struggle with our lives on a daily basis.

Psalm 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. (NLT)

Prayer: Our Father in heaven, we know that You are with all Your children who are struggling. We pray that You would strengthen all of them, and especially the caregivers. We ask it in Jesus' name. Amen.

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About the author:

Joel Jongkind <austria67@bmts.com>
Meaford, Ontario, Canada
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