Struggling to model Christ when work stress is killing me

Apr 17·1 min read

Guys I need some real talk. I work long hours and come home irritable, snapping at the kids over small stuff. My wife pointed out last night that I'm not showing them what patience and grace look like. She's right and it stings. I pray in the morning but by 3pm I've basically checked out spiritually. How do you all keep your witness strong when life is beating you down? I want my kids to see Jesus in me, not just hear about Him.

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Comments(3)

RRyanRegularApr 19

This is hitting me hard because I've been there. Long hours at work, come home and lose it over dishes or homework. What helped was being honest with my kids about MY struggle, not blaming them for my mood. Kids are more forgiving than we think when they understand dad is dealing with stuff too.

PPhil M.RegularApr 18

Man I feel this in my soul. Night shift nursing plus being present for my kid during the day means I'm running on fumes by evening. Started taking 10 minutes before I walk in the door to just breathe and reset. Even just sitting in the car helps. The irritability is real but you're aware of it which is the first step.

DDaniel R.RegularApr 19

I'd suggest looking at your work situation if possible. Could you cut hours, change shifts, anything? Because modeling Christ also means modeling self care and boundaries. You can't pour from an empty cup and your kids feel that stress whether you snap or not.