Sharing the load

July 18, 2007

By Gary Rogers

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2, NIV).

Relationships are vitally important. We draw strength and encouragement from one another. In our interaction and relating we sharpen each other’s faith and uplift each other’s countenance. It is so easy to fall into discouragement. Pressures of everyday living can build until you feel so weighed down you think your daily load is about to crush you. What you need is someone to come alongside and help lift your load.

Years ago I was very involved in weightlifting competition. I managed health clubs and was a member of a weightlifting team. In a lifting contest there is individual competition and team competition. Individual points and placement are calculated and contribute to the success of the team. One of the key elements in having a competitive team is to have a good distribution of weight classes. The natural tendency is to believe the big heavyweight competitors determine the outcome of a meet.

But those weighing in at 123, 137, 148, and 165 pounds are often the ones making the difference in a team winning. The total amount the smaller guys lift compared to the heavyweights is no comparison, but when you have two or three of them gaining points for both their placement and total amount lifted they leave the big guys in the dust.

You can help lift life’s load for someone. You are needed in the family of God. If we were in this alone, the load would be unbearable. But we are not alone. We are a team! You may not be a heavyweight lifter. But any amount you can lift is needed.

When we add up the total each of us lifts we find in this spiritual competition our enemy is defeated. No one is overwhelmed. No one succumbs to the heavy burden they are bearing. When we unite as a team we all win.

Gary Rogers is senior pastor of First Assembly of God in Coweta, Okla.