Help For The Burdened

One day Napoleon and a lady friend were walking together down a winding path in the countryside. They encountered some workmen who were carefully carrying a large, heavy load of material. Arrogantly, the lady said, “Move from the path and make way for Napoleon!”

“No!” interrupted Napoleon. “Respect the burden. Always respect the man with the burden.”

God not only respects the man with the burden, but He willingly will relieve the burden and refresh the man or woman who has the burden. Listen to the experience of the Psalmist: “The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down.”

No matter the weight or size of our burden or burdens, the Lord extends an offer to us to grant us His relief. “Humble yourselves, therefore under God’s mighty hand that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your worries or cares or anxieties or problems or troubles or fears on Him because He cares for you!” (James 5:6-8)

I find it interesting that for me to accept the offer of God to “lift me up” I must first “let myself down.” Notice, if you will that He begins His offer with the conditional word, “humble.”

“I’d rather do it myself” is the way most of us try to “live life.” We want to do it in our own strength on our own time and in our own way. But that does not suit God. If we want His help, we must get out of His way and say, “I surrender. I can’t do anything without You, Lord.”

Beginning with our salvation, and ending with Him in heaven, we must live life “bowed down” before Him.

Prayer:  Lord, how foolish we are to try to live life on our terms rather than Yours. Help us to “give in and give up.” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down. Psalm 146:8