We all have them at one time or another—cares, problems, trials, or whatever you prefer calling them. But we must deal with them whether we like it or not. The Scriptures give us three ways to do this. One of the three will take care of some of them. Two of the three will suffice for others. However, all three avenues must be applied in many cases. And what are these three ways to deal with our burdens?
Take care of them yourself. “For each one shall bear his own load.” (Gal. 6:5) Everyone must grow to become responsible adults, rather than continuing to be dependent upon others. This is necessary as we advance toward maturity. We cannot expect others to provide for our family, raise our children, or serve our Lord for us. Each individual is under obligation to fulfill certain human and Christian responsibilities. When the house leaks, or the car will not run, or we get sick, or personal debt is growing faster than we can reduce it—we know what has to be done, and we do it, if it is worth the effort. When faith is weak, or we are tempted to sin, we know what has to be done, and we do it, if it is worth the effort. Nobody can take care of these things for me. They are my responsibility. But help is near and available when we cannot do it alone.
Seek help from others. “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Gal. 6:2) There are some burdens we just cannot bear alone, and there are some that we should not bear alone. We need help. Circumstances may require help with the family car, with sickness or grief, or with buying food for the family. You may need encouragement, advice, comfort, and support. We all need the prayers of others. When we follow Jesus, “who went about doing good” (Acts 10:38), we will be ready and willing to do whatever we can to help one another. In fact, we will “do good unto all men, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” (Gal. 6:10) We will “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” (Rom. 12:15) As members of Christ’s body we “should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it, or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.” (1 Cor. 12:25–26)
Give them to the Lord. “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you.” (Ps. 55:22) God is near to those who put their trust in Him. He has promised never to leave us, or forsake us. (Heb. 13:5–6) “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers…” (1 Pet. 3:12) Certainly, this does not imply that relying on God should be our last resort. We should always rely on Him from the beginning, as we often need strength, wisdom, and guidance.
Yet, we should not expect Him—or others—to do for us what we can do for ourselves. But isn’t it wonderful to know that, whatever we have to face, we are not alone. Someone else loves us and really cares.
0 Comments