“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
We all know the struggles and emotions that come with experiencing hardship, but how do we respond to friends and relatives who are carrying burdens? What responsibility, if any, do we have when trials and difficulties befall our loved ones?
In situations like these, we can look to Galatians 6:2, which instructs us to “bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Seems straightforward, right?
Two verses later, however, Paul also says, “Let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load” (verses 4-5).
The Bible does not contradict itself (John 10:35). In some situations, we must “bear one another’s burdens,” while at other times, circumstances require that a person has to “bear his own load.”
Bearing others’ burdens isn’t always easy, but if we are going to fulfill Paul’s admonition, we must know when and how to do it.
How can we bear one another’s burdens?
We can gain insight to answer that question by examining three godly traits the Bible instructs us to exhibit.
Trait 1: Compassion
Compassion is what enables us to take note of those who may be under a heavy burden that they can’t carry alone (1 Peter 3:8). Christ was moved with compassion numerous times throughout His earthly ministry as He interacted with people (Matthew 14:14; 15:32; Luke 7:12-13). (To read more about Christ’s example of compassion, read “Jesus’ Compassion.”)
We should be attentive to those suffering and offer sympathy and treat their hurt as our own.
We should be attentive to those suffering and offer sympathy and treat their hurt as our own.
Paul draws attention to this in 1 Corinthians 12:25-26: “The members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it.”
While this specifically applies within a church congregation, it also applies to personal relationships. We should all be empathetic and affected by the well-being of those we know and love. When they suffer, we should suffer and desire to help.
Trait 2: Discernment
Exercising discernment will help us determine when someone truly needs help. We don’t want to overlook a genuine need, but sometimes people need to learn how to carry a particular burden or responsibility by themselves.
Difficulties in life can help people build righteous character and learn to rely on God. We may have good intentions, but if we overstep in our effort to bear others’ burdens, we could effectively rob them of the growth opportunities they need. We may think we’re being helpful, yet actually be a hindrance.
This is why discernment is crucial.
If we feel we lack discernment, we can follow James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” We can ask God to help us discern the appropriate action in any situation. He promises to help us.
While individuals may truly need to carry their own burdens, this does not automatically prohibit us from offering any assistance. We can and should provide appropriate emotional support and encouragement, following the instruction given in Hebrews 3:13 to “exhort one another daily.”
By exercising discernment, we’ll be better equipped to provide the appropriate level of aid and encouragement as we bear one another’s burdens.
Trait 3: Humility
Now we’re ready to jump in and help, right? Not necessarily.
When someone comes to us for help, we must discern not only the nature of the situation, but also whether we are the right one to help.
This requires humility.
There may be times when we do not have the expertise needed to effectively help someone. This is especially true when someone is dealing with a sensitive spiritual matter. While we can provide encouragement and support, issues pertaining to an individual’s faith or to abuse or addiction are very serious and may require the assistance of a pastor or other qualified professional.
As Paul emphasizes in 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, we all have different gifts. We should strive to use our gifts to benefit others to the best of our abilities, but we must also recognize that our gifts may not be suited to all situations. (To read more about spiritual gifts, read “The Fruits and Gifts of the Holy Spirit.”)
Applying compassion, discernment and humility will enable us to determine when and how we should bear another’s burdens.
In these instances, we must humbly recognize that we lack the necessary abilities and guide the individual to someone better suited to help. If we are not qualified to provide the support someone needs, we are not doing him or her any favors by trying to help anyway.
Instead, we should strive to emulate Paul’s instruction: “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or deceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians 2:3-4).
We must always prioritize what is in the best interests of the individual.
Applying compassion, discernment and humility will enable us to determine when and how we should bear another’s burdens.
Numerous sections of Scripture exhort us to care for those who are vulnerable. One example is Psalm 82:3: “Defend the poor and the fatherless; do justice to the afflicted and needy.”
Similarly, Matthew 25:34-40 emphasizes the importance God places on caring for those in need. “Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me” (verse 40).
God takes note of how we treat each other. We should not hesitate to act when we have an appropriate opportunity to help others bear their burdens.
Practical ways to help others bear their burdens
The specific actions we take to help others bear their burden will largely depend on the individual and the situation. However, we can take a few simple and meaningful actions to help others regardless of the specific burden they may be facing.
Send a card. A practical way we can help bear someone’s burden is by taking the time to write an encouraging card for them.
Understanding people and their needs is critical to finding the most effective way to bear their burdens. Take the opportunity to brainstorm some creative ways you can help and to look for areas where they may not be receiving much support.
If in doubt, simply be there with them. It’s far more meaningful than we often realize.
God is the ultimate bearer of our burdens
God expects us to comfort and strengthen each other, especially in times of trial and difficulty.
However, our best efforts, sincere as they may be, are limited. There is only so much we can do for each other.
Fortunately, God is not limited and does not withhold His help when we obey His Commandments and seek His intervention. No matter the situation, we can comfort each other with the knowledge that He will fulfill the promise in Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He is the God of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3).
Ultimately, it is God who truly bears our burdens.
Date Posted: February 5, 2024
About the Author
Monica Ebersole
Monica Ebersole is a member of the Sherman, Texas, congregation of the Church of God, a Worldwide Association.
