Devotion 3: Carrying Your Own Load with Faith
Scripture: Galatians 6:4-5 – “But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load.”
Reflection:
While we’re called to bear one another’s burdens, Paul also reminds us in Galatians 6:5 that each of us must carry our own load. This isn’t a contradiction at all. Everyone will be held accountable for the work that they do. But this also applies to carrying others burdens. Am I helping others? Am I doing what I am supposed to do to help those in need?
God gives each of us responsibilities—our faith, our choices, our daily walk with Him—that we must steward faithfully. We can’t expect others to live our Christian life for us or take credit for their faithfulness.
God also places people in our lives that we are to help. And we will be held accountable for neglecting this.
Let’s trust God to give us the strength to live faithfully for Him today.
Application:
Take a moment to “test your own work” as Paul suggests. Are you faithfully carrying the load God has given you—your responsibilities at home, work, or in your spiritual life? Are you seeking to carry the burdens of your brothers and sisters in Christ? Make a plan to take one step toward growth in that area this week, and ask God for strength to follow through.
Prayer:
Gracious God, thank You for the unique calling and responsibilities You’ve given me. Help me to carry my own load faithfully, not comparing myself to others but seeking to please You. And help me to see the burden that I need to carry for others. Strengthen me by Your Spirit to live out my faith with diligence and trust. May my life reflect Your glory and equip me to serve others in Your church. In Jesus’ name, Amen.