We are not meant to do this walk of faith alone. We need each other. In fact, Paul wrote specifically to the Galatians that we are to help shoulder the burdens of others and that by doing so we will fulfill the law of Christ.
“Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” [Galatians 6:2 HCSB]
This is particularly difficult to do this year as 2020 is a year of isolation. Yet precisely because it is, we need to make the extra effort to check in on each other and keep the lines of communication open. But there is another side to this verse, and that is that the ones with burdens have a responsibility also.
When burdened we often draw away from others. We cease meeting with people, we back away from gatherings or routines that once marked our walk with Christ. Maybe we think no one will understand. Maybe it just takes too much effort.
As a pastor I have often seen people experiencing difficulties, and I have seen them stop coming to church and stop contacting others. It is a trick of the devil to get us alone, to make us shoulder our burdens by ourselves, to keep us from help.
So if you are burdened, reach out. Do not try to go it alone. And do not expect others to always seek you out. Make the effort to find the ones who will help you carry your burdens.
Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works, not staying away from our worship meetings, as some habitually do, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” [HCSB]
