We had a girl's group in the church I grew up in and this verse about bearing one another's burdens was our theme. The need to bear the burdens of others is something important to remember, but, obviously, even more important to take action and to do. But, lately I've been thinking about the fact that you can't bear someone's burdens if they won't let you-if they refuse to share the load.
For many of us, reaching out for help when we need it is a struggle. This is especially true if you are raised in an atmosphere where self sufficiency was emphasized and weakness was discouraged. Pulling yourself up by your own bootstraps may have then become your default setting. But, what happens when that doesn't work-when you don't have the strength to pull yourself up-when you can't even find your dog gone boots, much less pull yourself up by the bootstraps?
For many of us, reaching out for help when we need it is a struggle. This is especially true if you are raised in an atmosphere where self sufficiency was emphasized and weakness was discouraged. Pulling yourself up by your own bootstraps may have then become your default setting. But, what happens when that doesn't work-when you don't have the strength to pull yourself up-when you can't even find your dog gone boots, much less pull yourself up by the bootstraps?
(Join me for the rest of this post on Sunday, May 20th, at Woman to Woman Ministries where each Sunday I share a bit of Sunday Soul Food!)
still following,
still following,
Elizabeth, this is truly something for us all to think on. We need to encourage and bear with one another. It is the means by which we all gain strength to make it through. I think you also raised an interesting point ... may we be the ones who keep a confidence, do not betray, and cause a wound. May we be trustworthy servants. Wonderful and wise word! Have a blessed Sunday!
ReplyDeleteYes! How important it is to be honorable and faithful with other’s burdens.
DeleteGood post, Elizabeth. When you said that about the girl's group in church, it drew me back long ago. Was that Missionettes? I attended such a group. What a wonderful intoduction to the Word they were. Faithful servants. Thanks for reminding me of that sweet time. It is a good reminder of the Lord's faithful work in my life. Now I work in a similar Bible Club at our church.
ReplyDeleteYes it was! Fun memories!
DeleteThis is great, thanks for sharing, I've started a blog with a similar goal to yours - to showcase real life with Jesus - I'm interested to read more of your posts!
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your thoughts, Elizabeth. These are so relevant to the real world. Worth following!
ReplyDeleteStephanie @ https://smiletutor.sg/