Bearing Each Other's Burdens
We are called to walk alongside others on the journey of discipleship. We serve our brothers and sisters by helping them stay on or return to the path of faithfulness. And we also serve them by making sure we continue in faithfulness. Self-neglect and irresponsibility impose an unfair burden on your brother and sister in Christ, because they're responsible to help you. The body of Christ is not a place of self-sufficiency. It's time we quit believing those lies we've been listening to for so long. The Christian faith is not each person looking out for him or herself. Nor is it the survival of the fittest.
The body of Christ is a place of interdependency. When you share the troubles and problems of others, you're fulfilling the law of love. Our burdens bring us together! As you call on others to help you bear your burdens, you will find your love and appreciation growing. Your weaknesses call forth other's strengths. And when others call on you, you have the opportunity to be an agent of God's mercy and grace, looking for nothing in return.
Do you know someone who is under a heavy burden at this time? What practical way can you come alongside that person and help him or her bear it? Prayerfully consider what God may be calling you to do, then step forward and do it.
- Steve Arterburn
"No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another." - Charles Dickens (1812-1870)
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