Be Not Overburdened
How following Jesus lightens our load
And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.
Luke 21:34 KJV
In the midst of our hectic lives, it’s all to easy to let ourselves become “overcharged.” This word, in 1611 when the King James Bible was published, was not an electrical metaphor, but rather referred to the overloading of a beast of burden. We are weighed down by worldy worries: our work and wealth, our households and health, our “cares of this life.”
When the burdens become unbearable, we sometimes seek relief in “surfeiting”: in the overconsumption of food, media, and other distractions. But such relief is fleeting, and chasing it becomes addictive and ultimately only exacerbates the overload and overwhelm.
Genuine relief can only come through Christ.
When we tend to the ephemeral for the sake of the eternal (Matthew 6:33);
when we take up our cross and follow Jesus (Matthew 16:24);
when, whatever we do, whether labor or leisure, we do it for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31, Colossians 3:17 and 3:23):
when we steward our earthly burdens to build up heavenly treasures (Matthew 6:19-21);
when we look at things sub specie aeternitatis — “under the aspect of eternity” (2 Corinthians 4:18);
…then the Lord makes all things bearable, and so many things joyful. And filled with fulfilling and lasting joy, He makes us immune to the temptations of pleasures that are fleeting and self-defeating.
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:28-30 KJV
Another great article, Daniel. Thank you for sharing this powerful reminder.