Together - Daily DevotionalSample

Carry Each Other’s Burdens

Reading: Gal.6:2-5

Key Verse: “Carry each other’s burdens and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ” v.2

We are continuing to understand how the EKKLESIA church of the called out ones functions well together.  At first glance this passage can appear contradictory especially in some translations which encourage us the bear another’s burden in verse 2 but state in verse 5 that everyone should bear their own burden. The NIV clearly distinguishes between a burden in verse 2 and a load in verse 5, but what’s the difference?

The original Greek helps us understand Paul’s meaning so the church may become all that Jesus is building it to be. The first burden that we are to help others carry is a heavy weight that would crush someone on their own. When my car was stuck on slippery mud I could not shift it by myself but others helped me move it to solid ground. The second load in verse 5 is the Greek “PHORTION” and was used of an individual soldier’s backpack. People have personal responsibility for their lives whether it’s cutting their own nails, washing their car, dieting or cleaning their home.

But when the weight of bereavement, redundancy, bankruptcy or sickness crushes their spirit we help them carry their burdens and fulfil Jesus command to love one another.

Prayer: Holy Spirit I ask that You may make me sensitive to show me people carrying heavy burdens that I can help carry