A Caregiver’s Prayer
By Cherise Selley
Oh Lord…
Forgive me when I try to carry what is not mine.
Each soul has their own cross to bear,
Their own journey with You through suffering into life.
I cannot take their cross upon myself.
Only Christ can carry it all.
When the weight feels too heavy,
When their pain presses into my heart,
I lay it down at Your feet.
This is too much for me-
But never too much for You.
In Jesus’ name,
Put the cross between me and what is not mine to carry.
Help them with their cross, Lord.
Help me with mine.
Their confusion, their sadness, their anxiety,
Belong to them.
Still, they spill over onto me.
Remind me, Lord, I cannot take them.
I can love, but I cannot save.
Thank you for other helpers, Lord,
to surround them with care.
Do not leave them in their pit-be with them.
Do not leave me in mine.
There are paths they must walk without me.
And paths I must walk without them.
Teach me not to confuse the roles.
Teach me to release what You never asked me to hold.
Help me to smile again.
To see life in the midst of disease.
To find Your presence even in the shadows.
Give me strength to carry only the cross You give me,
And no other.
Let me rest in You, Lord.
Grant me the gift of deep sleep in Your presence,
That I may rise renewed to love again tomorrow.
Amen.
Matthew 11:28-30 (TPT)
“Are you weary, carrying a heavy burden? Then come to me. I will refresh your life, for I am your oasis.”