The Burdens We(He) Carry(Carries)

    “Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not just please ourselves. 2 Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification. 3 For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, ‘THE REPROACHES OF THOSE WHO REPROACHED YOU FELL ON ME.’ 4 For whatever was in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” -Romans 15:1-4 (NASB)

    This passage overall is a description of how we should not only carry ourselves, but carry those around us who can’t carry themselves. This doesn’t mean to be overbearing and assume people can’t handle themselves, but that if you see a need, fill it. It means to be there for someone who is struggling with something and approaches you; to stand by our friends through anything, but to also be a friend to all. 


    But this must be accompanied by the right attitude. We must remember to always give the glory for anything in our lives to God. God sustains us, so through Him, we must work with His spirit to help sustain others. We know this because “whatever was in earlier times was written for our instruction”. 


    Another part of this passage that is interesting to me every time I read it is verse three, picking up where it reads, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” In this verse, Paul is writing words from Jesus. This message from Jesus is telling us that all of the struggles and criticisms we’ve had and will have experienced with people in life all fall on Him. Every single person in this world as an individual has there load shared by Jesus Christ. 


    There will always be those in this world who will make it difficult for us to live a life in Christ and serve others. But Jesus is making us the promise that all of these reproaches from others fall squarely on Him. We are called by Jesus to help those who need it, to spread the news and show His love. God tells us in the Bible to show His love to others; to go to need. That is our reason for doing so. He carried our burdens to the cross; He has called His believers to do the same.