2024 seems to be a challenge year for a lot of people.

Back in early January I asked a friend how things were going in her world and she answered, “Heavy.” Yesterday, I was visiting with a neighbor who is feeling the weight of several situations.

The burdens are all around us!

I think it is important to acknowledge the challenges we are facing. We don’t need to pretend things are all hippy skippy. But, when things are heavy, it weighs us down. And that makes slogging through the day more difficult.

Recognizing my limitations is so helpful during these times. God does not expect me to be a hero. He doesn’t expect me to “save” all the situations. But He does ask me to bring all these burdens and difficulties to him. He wants me to share my heart. He wants to share the load. And He wants us to trust that He is working things out.

Yes, we know people can make choices that will damage others and as we watch those decisions play out it is painful. We might be living with or ministering to the person who is left living with the challenging situation. How can we bind up the wounds of the brokenhearted?

We cannot. Only the Lord can.

He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3 NIV

There are many brokenhearted all around us. And sometimes we are the ones who are crushed in spirit. Ask God to refresh and renew your perspective today. Ask Him to send some respite and relief. Thank Him for anything you can muster up the energy to be thankful for.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
    and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 NIV

As you move through your day, keep an eye open for those who are struggling. Pray for them. Offer to pray with them. Consider lending a hand to help them move through their circumstance with a loving friend. We can only pour into others what has been poured into us. Ask Jesus to fill you so you can be available for others.