Struggling With Feelings of Uselessness
Tiffany Donahoue asks...
I began a cancer support group early this year through my church. There is a member who is really struggling with feelings of uselessness, and feeling as though her "long good-bye," as she puts it, is getting to be too drawn out and wearing on her family members/caregivers/loved ones. On a recent questionairre regarding topics the members would like to see addressed in our group, she suggested that we discuss "how do we help those who are trying to help us." She is a woman of strong faith, endurance, and courage, but it is difficult for her to be so dependent on those family members whom she feels should be able to depend on her. Are there any specific verses from Scripture that could comfort her or possibly a specific prayer that you would use in this situation? I am just wondering if there is something else I can do or say to support her through this difficult time.
Dear Tiffany,
First, thank you for the work and ministry you’re providing to your community. It certainly sounds like this person is trying to work through some difficult dynamics at this time.
There are four Scriptures I would like to recommend to you for her:
- 2 Cor. 4:1-18: This Scripture will help to refocus her back to the place of understanding that she is the bearer of light in the midst of darkness that many are looking at and will ultimately be witnessed to by … and that God calls that light "treasure"!
- Matt. 6:25-34 : This will help her walk out her path "one day at a time," which hopefully will help her with the challenge of dealing with the highs and lows of her "long good-bye" and the effect that has on her family.
- Rom. 8:28, 35-37: This will help her not to feel useless or defeated, confirming from God’s perspective "nothing can separate her from the love of God," and that she is "more than a conqueror."
- Ephesians 1:1-9: This will reinforce her status with God the Father, affirming her place in His heart by declaring "before the foundations of the world she was chosen by God!"
In conclusion, she simply needs to be reminded that she can only do but so much to help her family members through their personal struggle; much and most of her energy is needed to push through her mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual challenges while fighting the good fight of faith!
I hope this is helpful for you!
God bless your efforts with your ministry,
Rev. Percy W. McCray, Jr.
Director, Pastoral Care
Midwestern Regional Medical Center
Cancer Treatment Centers of America