Ounces into Pounds

Have you ever gone backpacking in the back country of the Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, or Appalachian Trail? If so, you no doubt realized nature’s beauty at its finest. Such an encounter compels you to stand in awe and attempt to take it all in. The sights, sounds and smells are simply breathtaking. 

Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.

– Psalm 55:22 ESV

As you prepare for a backpacking trip, you must create a preliminary list of things you will need. Knowing how many days you will be hiking is an essential first step. Before loading your backpack, lay your pack on the floor and place all the items on your list surrounding the pack. Remember, ounces turn into pounds. Then, ask yourself – Do I need all of these things?  Discard the unnecessary items and load the remaining items. Now, weigh your pack. 

Experienced packers say your pack should not weigh more than 20% of your body weight. 
Now let’s compare this to everyday life. Carrying unnecessary items on your shoulders or within your heart and mind is burdensome. Initially, it doesn’t seem so because you’re strong and capable. The first several hours, days or weeks may not seem bad, but sooner or later, those burdens begin to weigh you down and cause unnecessary problems simply because you chose to carry them. 

Casting your burdens upon the Lord humbles you, relieves you of unnecessary weight to carry and gives you more endurance to move forward.

When you give your burdens to the Lord, you acknowledge that you trust Him to handle your problems and concerns. The longer you carry your burdens, the more they will weigh you down and negatively impact you. 

The Lord wants you to live a vibrant life and express the fruits of the Spirit joyfully. Unpacking unnecessary weight allows you to live life to the fullest.

Today’s One Thing
Pray, “Father, you are the author and creator of joy, peace and fulfillment. I bow before you and give you all my troubles (name them). I know you love me and will provide me with strength and hope as I release these concerns to you and trust you. Thank you for watching over me and taking these burdens. I love you, Father.”

Go Deeper

Receive Devotionals like This in Your Email