I spent a few hours with my neighbor today, trying to be helpful and caring. She’s an older lady living alone, with little money and some health struggles. My mind immediately labeled her with all the signs that screamed she needed help. As a Christian, I feel a strong obligation to assist her.

This encounter made me reflect on one of my spiritual struggles. Whenever I spend time with someone who’s not in a good place, and I care about them, it creates a pressure within me—the sense that if I don’t do something, I’m a bad person. For example, when my neighbor mentioned needing a pet carrier, a new one cost  $45. I quickly responded, “Don’t spend that money. I can find one cheaper on Facebook Marketplace.” But as the week went by, I didn’t have time to do it, and that left me feeling guilty. So today, I gave her ours.

As we talked, she shared her daily challenges—dealing with insurance, Medicare, and overcharges on her cable bill. Before I knew it, I was making plans to help her lower her bill. And then, it all felt like another nagging task for me.

I realized this isn’t healthy, and I need to establish boundaries.

Lord, please guide me through this. You’ve given me a good heart, and I’m grateful, but help me use it wisely.