Finding Purpose in the Tedious Tasks of Caregiving

Your labor is not in vain.

(Part of the Caregiver Devotional Series)

“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

1 Corinthinans 15:58

What are your least favorite caregiving tasks? I can think of several things I wish I could outsource! Sometimes the most tedious things can feel like a waste of my time. But this verse in Corinthians changes my perspective of even the most menial parts of caregiving.

Paul is telling believers that our labor is not in vain. It has significance and purpose in God’s kingdom. The reason Paul can say this is because of what he says before: that Christ rose from the dead. He finishes with the encouragement that if Christ truly rose from the dead (which he did), then all of your work (even the menial, the tedious, the exhausting, and the exacerbating) – has purpose! Nothing is wasted. None of your works “die” or “disintegrate”. Rather, every task done in love is resurrected, redeemed, and valued for eternity.

So what are you to do with this hope? Paul says to remain steadfast and immovable in the tasks the Lord has given you to do. Abound in the work of the Lord – go over and above what looks reasonable to the world. It might mean visiting mom even when dementia has made her mean and unpleasant. It might mean risking being disliked by advocating for better services for your child at school. Name your least favorite caregiver task: _____. Even that thing (maybe especially that thing) is what you are called to remain steadfast in doing, because it is not in vain!

Your salvation and reconciliation with God is not dependent on any of your good works – but the Lord does rejoice in your work that is done in faith and for his glory. And he will reward you in heaven for the ways you die to yourself and serve others. 1 Corinthians 15:58 is a reminder that persevering in caring for your loved one is a work of eternal value, and one which moves you toward hearing the wonderful words “well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23).

In the tedious and frustrating parts of caregiving, ask your friends to pray fervently for you. Invite the Holy Spirit to sustain you and change your attitude. Be steadfast in this calling that God has placed on your life, for this season, and trust that your labor is not in vain.