The Burdens We Carry

Some days I feel weary. Weary of trying to accomplish tasks God has called me to; namely, writing, speaking, and blogging; counseling women and taking time for family and friends. Anxiety weighs me down and I wonder which way to turn. There are so many options it makes my head swim.

Decisions, decisions, decisions!

The load feels so heavy at times I want to check-out.

Ever been there? Perhaps you’re there right now. I’m an empty nester, but some of you have families to care for. Add a job to an already heavy responsibility and you’ve got overload.

Yikes!

What to do?

Jesus advises, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gently and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt. 11:28-30)

Most of us have seen a picture or on TV, a pair of oxen pulling a heavy load. But did you know that one of the oxen is more experienced, stronger? When a young ox is attached to a yoke with a mature ox, the young ox’s load is made lighter, easier. The lead ox does most of the work. In time the young ox learns from the older.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work.” (Eccles. 4:9) I fail when I attempt to complete projects in my own strength. The Lord is the only one who can truly lighten my load. But I have a responsibility to ask and receive His help. It means learning to trust Him in all things, and sometimes He wants us to reach out to others for help.

If we live life as “People pleasers” and “Yes people”, we are our own worst enemy. If God hasn’t called us to it—we shouldn’t do it.

Learning to recognize when our plate is full, and learning to say “No” frees us from added anxiety. Spending time with Jesus each day lessens stress as we look to Him for strength. He helps us remember to trust him and not worry about tomorrow. Each day if we do what we can, that’s enough. It’s all He expects.