We were created to bear one another’s burdens, BUT NOT TO CARRY THEM. Carrying burdens was the work of Jesus, not ours.
Gal 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
And in verse 5 we gain clarity, “Each one should carry His own load.” (Some translations understand the difference in the use of the word “carry” by translating it to “bearing” in verse 2, and leaving “carry” in verse 5 unchanged.)
In other words, we are to sacrificially do what we can to help one another… just as we would expect others to help us in our situations. If I can lighten the load of a friend, I should long to do that.
Yet, there is also this REALIZATION that there are certain things ONLY THE PERSON GOING THROUGH can do! And that’s the second part… of doing what is required of us. (Side Note: Some people never enter into their part… and as helpers, we must recognize the importance of getting out of the way.)
Recognizing Our Limitations
We cannot do THE PART OR PUT IN WORK that is ordained for someone else to obtain what they need inwardly or outwardly.
These kinds of truths make mentorship, parenting, pastoring, equipping, advising, and/or guiding others difficult.
Hello Theresa, who often stands on both sides of this truth. Not only do we find ourselves carrying burdens, but we find ourselves in need of being carried.
Other people can only do so much! The real effort will always be on my part!
TROUBLE COMES, WHEN WE TRY TO DO THE PART FOR OTHERS “THAT IS NOT ORDAINED FOR US” AND WHEN PEOPLE “WANT TO FORCE OTHERS TO DO MORE” THAN WHAT THEY ARE ORDAINED TO DO!
In leadership, mentoring or guidance situations, the one leading MUST RECOGNIZE when to let go and step back. It helps the one being led, step up and do the work.
Embrace The Real Work
Some relationships end here because the boundaries are misunderstood as the guidance is pulled back. But without the pulling back, growth can’t occur where it’s needed.
THE POINT: Outside of guidance, resources, love and friendship, there is only so much we can do to help others. The REAL WORK will always be in our own hands.
A person can take a thousand classes, have a hundred mentors, connect with all the successful people, obtain a gazillion degrees, get millions of prophetic words, and have a thousand dreams… and remain stuck IF THEY ARE NOT COMPLETING THEIR INNER WORK!
Looking Within
Have you acted on the advice you have been given?
Are you teachable?
Are you stewarding your realm?
Is that thought life changing?
Are you beating your flesh into submission?
Are you faithful, consistent in your efforts?
Are you free of offense, twisted thinking?
Are you limiting the voices of around you?
Are you accountable to those sent to guide?
Are you processing the world around you correctly – spiritually and naturally?
If you are ordained to help others, practice knowing when to let them go and not be pulled into a trap.
If you are receiving help, understand that the Lord has designated places for us to carry our own load.
