Sometimes, it’s hard to share the thoughts and feelings weighing most heavily on our hearts. Maybe we’re struggling with depression, bullying, a parent’s divorce, the death or illness of a loved one, or the sins we are most often tempted by. We might feel embarrassed or ashamed that we feel the way we do. We might worry how others might react. We might even feel like we’re a burden to them when we tell them how we’re feeling.
However, God doesn’t want us to suffer alone! He gave us friends, family, teachers, and our church families to help us—in good times and in bad. Aaron supported his brother Moses’ arm when he was too tired to hold his staff up (Exodus 17:10-13). Jonathan protected his friend David from King Saul, who wanted to kill David (1 Samuel 18:1-5; 20:1-42). As Christians, we are meant to support, challenge, and encourage each other no matter what we face— imitating the Savior we serve (Matthew 28:20; 1 John 4:19).
Maybe at church, you feel like you don’t belong. “Nobody knows or understands what I’m going through. I’d better just stay quiet.†But Christians aren’t a bunch of perfect people; they’re a bunch of people who are all in different places in their journeys to be more like Christ. Some might be at a high point in their lives, others at a low point, but everyone will face their own unique struggles sooner or later. You don’t have to be ashamed. In fact, being open about them may encourage someone else to share their burdens too!
We bless others when we let them help us. Purpose and special blessing are found in demonstrating the love of Christ as we “share each other’s burdens†(Galatians 6:2). Please don’t deny that privilege to those who care about you and want to help you!
When we are refreshed and encouraged by the body of Christ, we find new strength to give the same gift of encouragement to others. • Jessica Kleeberger
• Do you have any burdens on your heart? If so, list someone you could share them with (a parent or other family member, youth pastor, camp counselor, etc.).
• How can you help friends who are going through hard times but are reluctant to ask for help?
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NLT)
Read Verses:
Proverbs 27:9; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 1 John 4:19
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