It’s one thing to want to do God’s will and another to truly want what He does.
I spent some time recently reflecting on the heart’s posture in perseverance. Exhorting others as I do on here is an incredible blessing but has also felt like a burden during difficult times.
Last week, I had to intercede for and encourage several in the body of Christ and this was unexpectedly intense. Sleep was poor, energy was low, distractions abounded, and I felt so drained. I’m thankful for the burden bearers in my life who could lift me up and join me in this effort.
Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2
In taking my burdens to God, and asking others to do so on my behalf, God reminded me of joyful obedience. He wants me to joyfully do His will. For my desires to align with His. To genuinely want what He wants. It wasn’t until He made me see the blessings in my burdens that I was able to do that.
My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.
Matthew 26:39
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.
John 13:34-35
Process and products used:
These pages are in a basic, blank, A5 notebook that I use for faith journaling. I used a printable by @kristina.proffitt for Illustrated Faith which can be found here: Come Holy Spirit Come.
Some of my notes are from an article on the DesiringGod.org website called Lord, align my heart with yours.
Be encouraged
🎶 The Morning ~ Blessing Offor
Hold on, beloved, the sun will rise. This too will pass.
I encourage you to ask for prayer and don’t suffer alone. I know, from experience, that there are many believers who cannot be relied upon for prayer. In sharing our burden with those, they take it upon themselves to carry and become burdened as well. Then, there are some who have a poor understanding of scripture and will quote you a verse or two about not grumbling. The enemy will always attempt to divide and weaken us. Don’t be discouraged by those but, instead, pray for them and seek support from those who are strong in the Lord.
Choosing to keep your burdens to yourself goes contrary to scripture. It also hinders others and denies them the opportunity to practice this command.
Make it a habit to pray for others – those you meet in person, those you scroll by in virtual spaces, and especially those who lead. Some people will not ask for prayer for many reasons. However, if God brings them to mind or you become aware of their struggle, then just pray for them. Bear their burdens by going to God on their behalf. Lift them up with an encouraging word.
