When Burdens Get Heavy

 Marlene Custer

“…let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25 NIV)

Do you find yourself longing for some encouragement as you go throughout your day? 

The national and world news is discouraging enough, but there are burdens we all carry from time to time—financial, illnesses, marital tension, death of loved ones, and a myriad of others. 

It comes as no surprise that Christians are not immune.

Psalm 34:18-19 (NIV) declares, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. 

A righteous man may have many troubles but the Lord delivers him from them all.” 

If you are currently struggling with a heavy burden, search God’s Word for the comfort and direction you need. 

I find a good concordance helpful in finding the passages of Scripture that speak to a particular problem.

 
I would also encourage you to find at least one Christian friend you feel comfortable to share with. 

I recently read a devotional* that stressed, ‘we don’t need to tell everybody what is going on in our lives, but we need to tell someone.’ 

The first part of the verse in Hebrews at the top of this devotional says, “Let us not give up meeting together…” 

This is essential to getting to know like-minded friends.
When we care for others, we are working alongside God. 

What an awesome thought —and what an incredible responsibility.

“Father, I thank you that Your Word proclaims, ‘Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.’ 

(Psalm 68:19 NIV) As You reach out to me, please help me to reach out to someone else who is struggling, so that together we may be all that You created us to be. 

I give you thanks — Amen.”

*Untangle Your Emotions by Jennie Allen, WaterBrook 2024

Marlene is a retired teacher endeavoring to make Jesus known. Contact