Today’s Scripture
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me-watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly” (Matthew 11:28-30, The Message).
Today’s Devotion
Does your spouse struggle with mental health issues? They don’t just affect your spouse. They place a heavy weight on you too. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or a host of other issues, those struggles are just as real and life changing as cancer. They’re just harder to see.
If you’re in a difficult season – your spouse is adjusting to new medication, the counseling appointments feel long, or the light at the end of the tunnel looks a long way off – we understand. And we remind you of Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28-30: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me-watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly” (Matthew 11:28-30, The Message).
Practical Tips for Caretakers
If your spouse is struggling with a mental illness, there are some things you can do to keep your head above water. Maybe you’re already doing some of them:
- Learn all you can about the diagnosis. When a family member is diagnosed with a physical illness, you’ll research the problem, seek treatment, and ask questions. Do the same with your spouse’s mental illness.
- Seek professional help. Don’t do this alone! You and your spouse need support from doctors, therapists, small groups, and friends. They can also offer help and guidance if your spouse refuses to act.
- Stay connected with your spouse. Emotional and physical intimacy may ebb and flow; be flexible and intentional to nurture connection and friendship even when challenges arise.
- Set appropriate boundaries with your spouse. Boundaries are protection, not rejection. They all help you safeguard your emotional and spiritual well-being.
- Practice godly self-care. Supporting your spouse through a mental health issue doesn’t mean neglecting yourself. Be intentional about pursuing activities that give you rest and life. Build a personal support network so that you know where to safely turn during difficult times.
A Prayer of Hope and Peace
You are never alone. Jesus Christ gives a personal invitation to come to Him and find rest. He welcomes you to walk with Him and bring your burdens to Him. It doesn’t mean your spouse’s mental health struggles will go away, but that He is with you in even the worst of it.
As you support your spouse and keep moving forward, this is our prayer for you: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13, NIV).
Today’s Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are the God of peace and hope. Fill us with both as we travel this difficult path together. Amen.
