Our family loves hiking. With three young children, however, we must pack extra drinks and snacks for them to eat along the way, as well as extra first aid supplies because you never know what to expect! We fill two backpacks, so my husband and I each carry one. We always wondered why the way to our destination seemed so much longer than the way back to our car, but it is because the weight of the many drinks and snacks in our bags is practically gone on our way back! Without the extra weight, we the road seems much easier.

Life presents many different experiences for each of us. Some of these experiences may be painful, cause feelings of guilt, or our circumstances may cause extra worry and stress. When we choose to store these things in our hearts and minds, the weight becomes heavier and heavier to carry. These weights and worries were meant to crush you. They make you restless and cause you to lose sleep at night. The weight we carry distracts us and shifts our focus from God to our worries. This weight will slow you down and keep you from fulfilling God’s purpose for you.

Friends, if you are carrying unnecessary weight today, it is time to lay it aside. Shift your focus back to God and his assignment for your life. He tells us to cast all of our cares on Him because he cares for us. He wants to take those burdens you are carrying and give you rest. God is bigger than anything you may be facing. He wants to release you from the weight of the past, give you rest in the midst of present circumstances, and give you confidence, hope, and joy for the future. Give your heart to God. Surrender it all at His feet and let him free you to walk in peace.

Suggested prayer: Heavenly Father, You are good and only want good for your children. Thank you for your endless care for me. Help me lay my burdens at your feet today and leave them there. Help me embrace the freedom you have given me and walk confidently in Your Spirit. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1.    Hebrews 12:1 (KJV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.