A Stocked Refrigerator

care - A Stocked Refrigerator

What is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him? Psalm 8:4

David’s counseling practice was booming. He was booked from 8 A.M. to 6 P.M. every day of the week. It was tough for him to take a rest-room break, much less go out for lunch. I (Teresa) became worried about David missing lunch every day.

I was so concerned about this that I bought him a small refrigerator for his office. I even went out of my way to keep it stocked. I’d fill it with his favorite snacks and quick-to-fix lunches. I was very proud of myself for thinking of my husband and caring for him in such an important way. But my pride turned to frustration when I realized that David still didn’t stop during the day to eat anything from the refrigerator.

I was about to rip the refrigerator out of the office, when the Lord impressed me with these thoughts: Teresa, I know it’s frustrating to see David passing by your generous provision. But just remember, I provide you with an equally generous opportunity each day. I offer you fellowship and a divine visit every moment of every day. Some days you take the time to visit with Me, but on other days you’re too busy to receive My provision. Why don’t you give David the freedom to receive your care?

I kept stocking that refrigerator, but I also tried something new. Every now and then, I’d call David and ask to meet him at the office for lunch. This touch of personal involvement gave David a feeling of being truly cared for, and we enjoyed some great lunches together. I had come to understand that David appreciated my efforts to provide for him, but what made him stop and receive what I had provided was my offer of personal involvement.

In what ways can you add some personal involvement to your acts of caring for your spouse today?