Blessing Beyond The Burden

Is that not titled a great concept?

I heard it very recently, stated in just those words and what a powerful thought.

So often, the burden is overwhelming, frustrating and worrisome. Anxiety fills our hearts and stress fills the mind and we can't see past the burden not existing. Even the burdens that we understand that are ours to carry; that God has given us with a plan and purpose, whether they be ministry related or not... they can be hard to see past.

Not only seeing past them for the sake of moving on to "what's next" in life, but seeing the blessing that exists. The blessings that follow the burden and the opportunities that open up once the burden is lifted... we struggle to see both states of existence because the burden dominates so much of our energy, capacity and resources.

But the awesome state of being and state of mind that is possible after the burden is gone... well, we can imagine. In the meantime, hope must be maintained and the effort retained with the same resolve and intensity as though the process had just started.

Though the burden is disheartening, don't let it derail.
While it may do some damage; it must not destroy.

Past the burden, past the burnout.... there is blessing. In fact, if you watch for it, there is incredible opportunity to bless while in the midst of the burden.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for the burdens of pastors, especially for those whose burdens concern the next generation. Pray that God would strengthen their resolve and bless their efforts. Pray for opportunities to be a blessing, even in the midst of burdens that exist outside of their ministry. May the burden not derail them, nor discourage or destroy them. Pray they would rise above; renewed, encouraged and quickened to continue in the good work that God has prepared for them as they serve as faithfully stewards to the calling that God has placed upon their hearts and lives.

Blessed to be a blessing,
Regardless of the burden.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC