Life’s Unexpected Demands

…lean not on your own understanding

Proverbs 3:5

Two forces tussle in my mind: 1) the emotional demands of healing from the psychological wounding of a narcissistic relationship, and 2) the encroaching demands of assuming care-giving responsibilities for a family member.

The unpredictable confusion of my family member’s world shatters my self-care boundaries and intrudes upon my budding solitude and peace. Yet, both of our needs are important to the Lord, even though they appear to conflict with one another. I know there must be a way to navigate this newest challenge.

Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds me that healing takes place among the real-time demands of life in a world that is still under God’s sovereign rule.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways submit to him,

and he will make your paths straight.

I choose to trust in the Lord with all my heart since care-giving and self-care must co-exist. I release my confusion and frustration as I trust His sovereignty rather than my own understanding.

Prayerfully submitting these newest responsibilities to Him reminds me that God is actively involved in both situations. Asking for help, seeking outside resources, plus setting aside time for understanding my needs allows me to walk forward trusting God to straighten the path before me.

Father, I often feel overwhelmed by the chaos of my world. Your Son, Jesus, experienced the stressors of life during the changing dynamics of His family and His culture. Thank You that Jesus is my High Priest who experienced all things, including confronting narcissistic people. I look to You to direct me through my own responsibilities and challenges. Use all things to bring You glory and to conform me more into Your image. In the name of my High Priest I pray, amen.

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