[Ep 27] The Cost of Caring for Others

Today, we are going to talk about a part of encouragement and care that is often overlooked—or, rather, it's often used as an excuse to NOT reaching out to those around us who are hurting. We're talking about the cost of caring for others. Now, I don't mean financial cost, though there are actually many times and situations where you may need to be willing to part with some money in order to care for someone else. No, we're talking about some of the other costs involved. And really, these are sacrifices that we are going to have to be willing to make—not all the time, but when God calls us to. Think about a friend or two of yours who is going through a difficult season right now. Maybe they are grieving the loss of a parent. Maybe they are frustrated in their work. Maybe they can't seem to get the upper hand with their depression or are growing hopeless with their chronic illness. Friend, I want to remind you that being an encourager and caring for others is a good work. It's meaningful work. I believe you're here because you have that desire in you to help others, to be with them in the hard times so they know they are loved. So they know they matter. But caring for others can also be a difficult work. And so, as we enter into this work, we must be honest with ourselves and ask ourselves this question: "Am I willing to pay the cost it's going to take to help these friends?" Let's count the cost together, Kari   SCHEDULE A SPIRITUAL DIRECTION DISCERNMENT CALL http://lovedoesthat.org/spiritualdirection   BUY A MEANINGFUL SYMPATHY GIFT http://lovedoesthat.org/shop   BIBLE VERSES + QUOTES: "But don't begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it?" (Luke 14:28) "When somebody is having a hard moment, I believe it can be especially important to reach out and show that person that his or her life is more important than any schedule…. These inconvenient minutes or hours are never given in bitterness or anger because they are tender, sweet moments, and the spirit of God has the opportunity to speak to you." (Michael Slater) RESOURCES: Episode 20: [Courageous Care Challenge] Day 2: Unavailable (http://lovedoesthat.org/20) Episode 22: [Courageous Care Challenge] Day 4: Uncomfortable (http://lovedoesthat.org/22) Episode 25: What is Spiritual Direction, Do I Need It, and Other Frequently Asked Questions (http://lovedoesthat.org/25)