Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor’s work, will become a cause for pride. For all must carry their own loads. — Galatians 6:2-5
This week we are looking at how to continually choose the good things of God so it becomes natural. It is deceptively easy to fill your plates with things of this world—there are always things out there to slowly lead you astray, things that are pleasing to the eye but just end up hurting you.
Yesterday I asked what changes you needed to make so you regularly choose things that truly satisfy and nourish you. I told you about the Father’s Love Letter, which is an excellent compilation of who you are in Christ according to scripture. Continually embracing who you are in Christ is an excellent way to let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, like we discussed last week.
Today we are talking about carrying your own load. In today’s passage, “burdens” means “boulders” in Greek, and “own load” means “military backpack.” When people have true burdens, God tells you to come alongside them. When you have things too heavy for you to carry yourself, you are supposed to reach out for help from others.
Carrying your own load means two things. First, you take responsibility for your thoughts, words, and actions rather than blaming other people when you sin. Second, you keep the focus on your life instead of taking too much responsibility for other people. You let them be responsible for their own thoughts, words, and actions as well.
Taking responsibility shows spiritual maturity. It takes maturity to live a life submitting to God and to embrace your identity in Christ. And it takes maturity not to try to control others’ lives. You can pray for them and journey with them, but each person is responsible for his or her own life before God.
To Think/Pray About Today
Are there sins you commit that you blame on other people? “You made me do it!” Are there ways you are trying to control others’ relationships with God. “All you need to do is _____.” Ultimately, the only life of faith you are responsible for is yours.
Prayer Focus: Village Market
Cedarville United Presbyterian Church 