Burden Bearing -- It's Great

Paul wrote, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). As with much of the Bible's commands, this one is rendered with a great sense of simplicity and pithiness. Yet, as is also true with much of the Bible's commands, a more complete appreciation of this inspired statement must lead all of God's servants to at least two important conclusions.

First, bearing each other's burdens is a great responsibility. In the last week, I've spoken to a lady just diagnosed with cancer, a mother whose daughter is in serious legal trouble, individuals whose hours at work keep getting cut, and the list goes on and on. This is an experience which, I am confident, is shared by each person who reads these words. Needless to point out, there are lots of burdens to bear and that makes for an incredible responsibility.

Sometimes, we'll be strong and confident. Other times, we'll be weak and afraid. No Christian is on fire 100% of the time or immune to difficult days. This makes burden bearing an even more serious thing to consider as we progress in our Christian walk. Paul also wrote, "We then who are strong out to bear with the scruples of the weak" (Romans 15:1). If, when we're strong, we don't meet this great responsibility, then those who are weaker and struggling will have no one to turn to. Indeed, our role in bearing other's burdens is a seriously important task.

Second, bearing other's burdens is a great opportunity to do good. Later, in Galatians 6:10, Paul urges us to seek and take advantage of any and all opportunities to do good and to help others. Perhaps the greatest help we'll ever give is when we "lend our hearts" to bear other's burdens.

Bearing other's burdens is not just an opportunity to help others, it also helps ourselves. Anyone who has taken the time to help others will certainly attest to that fact! God, who made us in His image, understands that our value as humans is not determined based on what others do for us but in what we do for others. In fact, in sending His Son Jesus Christ to this earth, our Father understood the importance of service to others. The account of Jesus' life on this earth is truly a testimony to the importance of selfless service wherein the Son of Man's objective was to take advantage of each and every opportunity to bear the burdens of His fellow man. It makes sense why our Savior said, "it is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35)

This week, if we can find one more person to help, to talk to, and to encourage, that person will be better off. We will be a better people. And, our God will be all the more pleased with our service to Him as we are serving each other, realizing the great responsibility and great opportunity of bearing the burdens of others and fulfilling His law.