Wednesday, November 20, 2024
When we look back on past pain and hurt, it’s easy to see how deeply it impacts us. Often, we feel the need to hide our hurt, building walls to protect ourselves from further harm. But pretending to be okay only buries our suffering deeper, masking the pain and forcing us into survival mode. As we share our story, we find healing and a purpose we never anticipated: helping others break free from the weight of hidden burdens. God uses our victories to empower others to find their own strength and healing.
Psalm 55:22
Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.
Psalm 55:22 invites us to bring our burdens to the Lord. These powerful words remind us we don’t have to carry our pain alone. God never meant for us to walk through life pretending we’re okay or protecting ourselves with walls. When we release our burdens to him, we open our hearts to his healing touch and allow him to move us forward. We are an example to others of the transformation that happens when we are connected to him and other Christ followers.
The urge to hide our struggles can feel overwhelming. We fear others won’t understand our pain—or worse, that our vulnerabilities might be judged or dismissed. God assures us that he will sustain us when we entrust our burdens to him. He doesn’t require perfection, only an open heart, willing to seek his guidance. As we bring our cares to him, we learn to let go of the shame, the doubt, and the need to carry it all by ourselves.
In my journey, I have discovered that purpose rises from our deepest wounds. By sharing my story, I’ve found that God not only heals but uses my pain to help others. Each time I choose to speak up, I step further into the purpose he’s given me. My hope is in God. By releasing my burdens to him, I find the strength to turn my pain into purpose, inspiring others to do the same.
Let this be a reminder today: whatever weight you carry, you don’t have to face it alone. Give your worries and cares to God, trusting that he loves you and will lead you forward, even through the pain.
Questions:
What burdens or pains have you been carrying alone, and how can you invite God into those areas of your life to find healing and purpose?
In what ways might God be calling you to use your own story or experiences to help others who are struggling? How can you take a small step toward sharing or supporting others in a meaningful way?
Next Steps:
1 Peter 5:7
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
Using 1 Peter 5:7 as your guide, set aside 10 minutes each day this week to bring a specific worry, hurt, or burden to God in prayer. As you do, repeat this affirmation: “I release my worries and cares to God, knowing that he cares deeply for me.”
Write down what you shared with him in a journal, along with any thoughts or feelings that arise. At the end of the week, reflect on any changes you’ve noticed in your heart, mind, or perspective. This daily practice can help cultivate trust and the habit of surrendering your burdens to God.
Prayer:
Lord, I come to you with my burdens and lay them at your feet. I know I don’t have to carry these alone, and I trust that you care for me deeply. Help me to release my fears, hurts, and doubts to you. Guide me as I seek your healing and purpose in my life. Show me how to use my experiences to help others find strength and hope in you. Thank you for your endless love and faithfulness. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Romans 1:20
For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
This post was written by Monique Myers, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.