
I was taught that burdens (extra heavy situations) were not means to be carried alone, and as a Christian, we are to assist. Burden-bearing emulates the love that Jesus has shown to us when He said, “Come to me all ye who are heavy-laden and I will give you rest.” Matt 11:28
Each one should carry his own load. Galatians 6:5
Self-explanatory to most people. I guess, not to me. Throughout my life, I seem to meet more than my share of people who implore me to help them and I rush in full force, often at the expense of my own already depleted time and energy. And later, I realize, it was only a load—a backpack of issues that were theirs and theirs alone to work out. OMG! How old to I have to be to remember to tune into the wisdom God gave me and think before I act? To reflect and prioritize. I earnestly pray for God to give me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, i.e., other’s peoples lives and issues; the courage to change the things I can, i.e., when true assistance with burdens is needed, and the Wisdom to know the difference.
Anyone else out there struggling with this issue? Am I the only enabler or co-dependent? Please dear one, study the above pictures and contemplate your Christian outreach. You deserve self-care. “Love your neighbor as you love yourself” (Matt. 22:39). Yes, it is okay to say “no” at times. I give you permission.
Linda