Some have addictions that they are trying to break. Some are fighting cancer and other diseases. Many are living paycheck to paycheck and trying to figure out how to put the next meal on the table. Others have struggling businesses that are on the brink of failure. Several have marriages that are crumbling.
The one thing they have in common? They are way too often battles that people keep private. We have a tendency to fight alone. We don’t want to burden others. So, we keep it to ourselves. I know, because I have kept my own battles silent. You might share it with a couple of people that are closest to you, but share it beyond that? Most certainly not.
As I share this journal entry with you, I would encourage you to not carry burdens alone. Let Jesus help. Then, let others help.
Matthew 11:28-30 28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 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. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Galatians 6:2 NIV Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Saturday, February 13th [2021] 3:58pm My bedroom
Jesus,
Thank you for the wonderful date with Shannon last night. I really enjoyed the time with her and gaining perspective from her. Today, we ran into [a good friend and fellow entrepreneur] and hearing the challenges he has had to endure, to hear he was working with [friend and commercial realtor] too, and just receiving his encouragement and pat on the back and perspective was needed and I knew it was you at work.
[You ever run into friends you haven’t seen in a long while and then you hear about the incredible storm they’ve just been through and you think… “I had no idea”? This was one of those situations for me. I felt a little guilty because I hadn’t been there for him (though I’m not sure he told anyone, either). This friend had been through the wringer. Not only had he been battling cancer, but he was going through a tough trial in his business, too. God planned that meeting in the middle of the Ace Hardware that day. A much needed one. My friend encouraged me. He spoke life into me. He brought much needed perspective… Not only was he in a business battle, he was in a personal one, too. It was also a great reminder that everyone has their battles and I need to do a better job of being more aware, checking in on others, and being present to help carry the burdens of others. It was also a reminder that no matter how bad I think I’ve got it, someone is battling something worse.]
I believe that after meeting with [friendly competitor] from [friendly competing business] and hearing his story and where he is in life that it isn’t a good fit [for him to buy New Scooters 4 Less]. I believe that right now I need to do a call for offers [on the commercial property]. I’m going to meet with [a developer in Gainesville] Monday morning and I hope that will bring even more affirmation that this is the right thing to do. LORD, I pray that if we go that direction and do a call for offers, the amount will be significant enough to bless and set this family up for future success, will take care of all liabilities, will take care of your church, and allow us to take care of our team and give something back to them. I don’t want to be greedy. I want to by wise. I want to be your steward. Reassure me that this is the right move. I love you and thank you for this responsibility.
Sunday, February 14th, 2021 10:53a My bedroom
Jesus,
Since yesterday, [my friend and fellow entrepreneur] has been on my heart. I pray for him and his family and anything they may be going through. Sounds like it has been challenging times and I’m sure he has kept it to himself mostly. I just pray for your presence in his life and his family’s life. He’s a great guy with a huge heart. Thank you also for this morning’s message at church. May I be more bold in my faith. I’ve wanted to educate myself more so I could be more bold, but I need to remember that your power can be in me and speak through me. [I’m not an expert in Theology. I’ve read the Bible, but I’m not an expert. I think many of us (including me, though I have been quickly growing out of it) don’t share our faith, because we feel like we don’t have the “Biblical knowledge.” So, we refrain from sharing. If you’re like me, challenge yourself to share your testimony. Ask God for opportunities to share your testimony, then when the Holy Spirit presents the opportunity and taps your shoulder to remind you, be bold and have faith that you are exactly where you’re supposed to be for God’s intended purpose.] Bless this day with the family. I love you.
Collin
Today’s final thoughts…
Reflect. Pray. Engage. Who haven’t you talked to in a long time? Reflect on that. Pray and ask God to reveal those in your life to you that most need help carrying burdens. When that person(s) pops in your head, reach out to them and meet with them. Even if they still “don’t want to burden you,” you’d be surprised how far a “Hey friend, I know I haven’t seen you in a while, but God put you on my heart and I’ve been thinking about you and praying for you. I’d love to grab a cup of coffee and catch up!” will go.
I want to repeat this, because it’s important… If you are the one in a battle, I implore you… don’t fight alone. Please reach out to friends, family, counselors, etc. Battles are won when you have an army fighting by your side.
I love you guys. Thank you for reading and sharing this blog with others. I pray that it inspires, impacts, and brings people to Jesus’s Kingdom.
Wishing you a great week and a reflective Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday, today.
“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Blessings,
Collin
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