When You Don’t Have The Mind

I recently read an article that encouraged people to focus on what they can do rather than give in to what they can’t do. That may sound reasonable, but the truth is, there are just some things we don’t even want to do. The first time I had to take care of my mother’s personal hygiene, it was not something I even wanted to do. But it required immediate attention, so I dealt with it. 

When I used to question my aging grandmother why she hadn’t completed what I (erroneously) thought was a simple task, she’d say, “Baby, I just ain’t got no mind to do that!” It was a strange answer to me, but time and experience have taught me what she meant. You have to have the mind (desire or will) to do something before you can even muster up the strength to do it.

I am reminded of the verse that says God works in us both “to will” and “to do.” The first part means He gives us the mind to want to do what is right; then He gives us the power to do it. As you face difficult tasks in your role as a caregiver – especially those you would rather not have to do – first ask God for the mind to complete those tasks willingly, then ask Him for the strength to do so.