Rock Out

Nº 265

weekly devotions to refresh your soul by Dr. Dan Bolin - August 29, 2023

“I would go to the deeps a hundred times to cheer a downcast spirit. It is good for me to have been afflicted, that I might know how to speak a word in season to one that is weary.” Charles Spurgeon

As a teenager, I went on a day hike with about a dozen friends in the Columbia River Gorge. We each carried a small rucksack with our lunch, rain gear, and who knows what else!

We hiked and laughed, sometimes racing to the top of a hill, and sometimes stopping to enjoy a magnificent view. My shoulders ached, but I would not admit to any discomfort or show any sign of weakness.

The sunny morning turned cold and rainy. We stopped, removed our packs, put on extra clothes, and donned our ponchos. That was when I found it! While the rest of the group laughed, I pulled a large rock out of my rucksack. Some of my ‘friends’ thought it would be funny to let me carry an extra load.

True friends are just the opposite. Paul reminded the Galatians and us, “...bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)

Too often, thoughtless words, harsh criticism, and unfounded gossip are the heavy loads others carry. This week, lift someone’s burdens with an encouraging word and an offer to help. Jesus said, “love one another.” (John 13:34) As we lift burdens, we fulfill the Law of Christ.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President

Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc