Sharing burdens

I look around at the people surrounding me, those very close to me in my life, and see joy and happiness, but also a lot of hurt, sorrow and worries. Sure, you could say that I am worried and stressed, but my worry and stress comes from school or relationships, things that I tend to put on myself. Others around me are dealing with much greater pains, much greater sorrows, and much greater burdens. And because of this, I tend to ask God, “God, why didn't you even it out more? How come they have to carry all this burden when I really don’t have anything that excruciating?” It just isn't fair.

Then, I was reminded of this truth from Galatians 6:2 – “Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” It isn't about how many burdens you yourself are carrying, it is about sharing burdens, helping each other carry the hardships in our lives. We are called to “Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.” – Romans 12:15

Through these truths, God has made something very clear to me: He made me to bear other people’s burdens just as heavily as I bear my own. When the people in my life are calling for my attention and help, I want to give it to them, willingly, letting them know that I am available and I WANT to bear their burdens.

Some of us get to choose which burdens we bear, and some of us don’t have this privilege. If you are like me, choose to bear the burdens of those around you. Remind them that God created you to share their burdens. And if you are the one trying to carry all your burdens yourself, allow other people to help you carry them, since this is what God has intended for us.

Heavenly Father, help us to bear one another’s burdens in order to do good and obey You. Help us to understand why you place hardships in our lives. You are good, Lord, and we praise You forever and ever. Amen.