WWTW- Finding Strength In Sharing

Welcome to our first Wednesdays with The Word. In the coming weeks, I hope to share testimonials, stories and experiences about how God's word has comforted, strengthened and shaped me in my walk through life. I hope that in some small way, by sharing my stories I can share a small part of God's grace with you, that you might find your own strength and comfort in his word.

Yesterday I was reminded again how much strength we need to be able to share our experiences and be vulnerable with other people and ourselves. In Galatians, we are called to bear one another's burdens, and in Romans to rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. This all sounds familiar and we are so willing to share in the joys and sorrows of our loved ones and help to carry their burdens, but when it comes to our own we are often hesitant to share. Why do we think this is? is it for fear, shame or embarrassment? or perhaps we are unwilling to share our joys for fear it may sound like bragging or overshadow someone else's struggles. Maybe it is just simply that we feel we don't have the strength to share.

To be truly bearing one another's burdens, we must not only be sharing in the joys and struggles of others but share our own as well. By allowing others to pray and give thanks on our behalf, we are giving greater glory and honour to God. It can be difficult to let people into our personal struggles but in doing so, as you accept and overcome them it serves to highlight God's power and sustaining grace.

By sharing our struggles with others we are able to show forth God's goodness as well as the strength and grace that he gives to his people. We honour Him by admitting that this strength is not our own, but that we do all things through Christ. So not only can we find comfort and strength in sharing, it becomes our duty as it brings glory to God. So whatever it is you may be going through, reach out, and find comfort in sharing with others. Accept their prayers for you, and allow them to help ease the weight of your burdens. You are not alone.