Bear One Another’s Burdens

Daily Devotional – Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2 (NKJV)

I remember as a boy running to welcome my mother home and help carry her luggage. I craved for the loving hug of a mother as we all the goodies she was bringing home. Later in life, I came to realize she really appreciated when her children helped carry the bags.

Today, I am on the other side of the equation. Whenever my children help carry the stuff I am carrying, I feel relieved and happy. As the younger one explores the shopping bags for cookies, candy and other goodies, I slump into the couch, exhale and get a deserved rest.

Restore Backsliders in Gentleness

When you are tired and heavy-laden, nothing feels better than a helping hand. A person who takes the weight off your back, even if for a moment, is a friend indeed. This applies to all spheres of life – physical, mental, social and spiritual.

Apostle Paul counseled the believers in Galatia, “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1).

Bear One Another’s Burdens

Instead of condemning and eschewing backsliders, believers should restore these children of God into the faith with gentleness. If heavens celebrates when a sinner repents, how heavy is the sadness when a soul departs God’s presence?

In addition, Paul gives straightforward instruction to believers, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2). We demonstrate our love for God when we assist those in need.

How to Share Burdens

When we feed the hungry and clothe the naked, we share their burden. We also achieve this objective by giving shelter to a homeless person. Funding a needy child’s education or helping a jobless parent to find a new job is sharing a burden.

Praying with or for the sick and mourning with the bereaved is carrying those people’s burdens. We relieve other people’s loads when we counsel them or offer a listening ear. Some individuals simply want a shoulder to cry on for their burdens to fall.

What will you do today to carry or share another person’s burden?

Lord Jesus, lead me to a person whose burden You want me to relieve.