Casting our cares can be challenging. Let’s discuss an analogy to help us understand.
Have you ever gone backpacking? It is common for us to pack our backpacks with too much stuff we think we may need. It’s easy for our minds to wander to a scary situation we may find ourselves unprepared for when we think of the “what if’s.”
It’s not wrong to bring basic items on a backpacking trip. Personally, I have realized many times how much I overpacked and insisted on needing everything, but at the end, it was just more exhausting to carry, and I was tired. The backpacking scenario is a good way to explore how to cast your cares.
Taking a few minutes to answer some questions will help us realize we have been carrying too much on our own for too long.
- Do you worry for answers?
- Do you justify worrying by thinking this will prepare you for the worst?
- When you carry burdens do you see yourself as the only one able to do so?
I assure you, my friend, that you are not alone in this human condition. The pitfalls of worrying are well known to Jesus. So much so that He offered a way out; relief and freedom from a heavy weight that we do not have to bear alone. The Word of God tells us what we need to know.
Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Jesus is explicitly calling out to those who have heavy hearts, burdens and, struggling for answers. He provides relief, brings calmness and peace. He does so in a sweet humble manner. Jesus doesn’t shame or point out our weakness. He wants His children in a state of peace.
Luke 12:25
“And by which of you being anxious can add a single hour to his life span.”
This verse is my favorite and the one I am most guilty. I try to justify my cares and worrying to avoid emotional drain, thinking I am making my life easier. But this verse is exactly the opposite; we cannot add any more to our life by allowing worry and anxiety, they are limiting emotions and do not allow for peace to reign in our heart.
1 Peter 5:7
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
Stop and dwell on this verse; Jesus cares so much for the burden you have been dragging around. He wants to carry it for you, so you can be free and focused.
When we focus on the weight and our resolve to carry our own burdens, we miss out on God’s blessing.
When we say yes to Jesus, He will provide a way. There are times when He will take the burden off, other times when He will send helpers, and still other times when He may allow you to bear the burden, but as you deal with the outcome, the hard situation will feel lighter.
Make God’s Word your source of refreshment, restoration, and renewal. Cast your cares and burdens on Jesus as you read and meditate on these passages.
Putting your worries and concerns in Jesus’ care is an act of faith. In essence, you give up knowing the outcome, manipulating the results, or pursuing the answer you desire.
Take control of worrying today by turning to Jesus and trusting Him fully; you’ll be surprised at how much the Lord will help, provide, give peace, and answer your prayers. All of these insights will benefit you and strengthen you as a child of God.
Check out these Free Printable Scripture Cards – use them to keep your focus on Jesus.