Heave, Ho, Let The Burden Go!
Wednesday, July 8
1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. “
Devotion
Today’s Scripture encourages us not just to “let go, and let God,” as a common saying goes. No, this Scripture encourages us to actively throw the weight of our cares and burdens on Jesus. What does that mean? It means we should train ourselves through practice to speak our concerns and the emotions they raise to Jesus in prayer, placing them under His authority and inviting His response.
While it is good to have a dedicated prayer time each day, we are also encouraged to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). When the challenge comes to mind – cast it along with any fear at the feet of Jesus for a solution. When the wave of anxiety or worry hits – confess it to Jesus and ask Him for direction and provision. In every situation, also give thanks for who God is, for what He has already done for you, and acknowledge that His understanding is greater than yours.
Jesus is the commander of the armies of heaven and also our Good Shepherd. When he was physically on earth, Jesus lamented that he longed to gather the people of Jerusalem under his protection, but they were unwilling at that time. Let us not miss out on blessings available to us because we were too proud to ask.
Cast ALL your cares honestly and humbly before Jesus. We are so commanded. We are invited. Because He cares for us.
Today's Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
The notion that You care for me is overwhelming because it means You also see me. I cannot live up to such a love, only offer You my heart, my mind, and my strength. Life is challenging, and I am anxious at times. I choose to obey You and accept Your invitation to carry my burdens. By Your Holy Spirit, remind me when I am anxious and train my spirit to cast all of my cares on You. Help me to demonstrate this for those around me, that they would see the goodness of God and trust in Jesus. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
If you wake up in the night because of worries or cares, pray right then on your bed. Remember the goodness of God to you, and praise Him as well. As you get up and prepare for each day, identify what you are worried about, and pray through those things. Think of each one like a heavy rock and heave it in Jesus’ direction as you pray. Then go in His grace.
Resources
- Heavy moments don’t have to stay hopeless. Watch “Turning Burdens into Blessings” and see how God can take what feels overwhelming and turn it into something that strengthens your walk with Him.
- Don’t just hear about it—be in it. Week Two of At The Movies is this Sunday. Get exclusive access and experience the series like never before at freechapel.org/movies.