You're Not Meant to Go Alone

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." – Galatians 6:2

Life feels lighter when we share the load. God designed us for community, and He never intended for us to carry our burdens alone. When we walk alongside others, or let them walk with us, our burdens become lighter.

Henry Cloud, a Christian psychologist, shared a fascinating study about stress. In this study, researchers subjected a monkey to various stressors, such as ringing bells, flashing lights, and loud noises. The researchers observed and recorded the monkey’s elevated stress levels.

Then, they introduced a second monkey into the same environment. The stressors—the bells, lights, and noise—remained unchanged, but the first monkey’s stress levels dropped dramatically by 50%.

The presence of a companion made the unbearable stress more manageable. The study concluded that sharing burdens with another drastically reduces the impact of stress. Cloud humorously commented, "If you’re stressed out, you need more monkeys in your life!"

This makes me think of Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, that says, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." 

This study reminds us of the power of community. When we let others into our lives, sharing our joys and struggles, life becomes more bearable. And when we turn to Jesus, the ultimate burden-bearer, we find strength and peace that surpasses understanding. You were never meant to face life’s challenges alone.

Reflection Question: Who in your life can you lean on during stressful times? How can you be a "monkey" for someone else?

Lord, thank You for the gift of community. Help me to share my burdens with others and be willing to carry theirs as well. Teach me to trust You as my ultimate burden-bearer. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

[see: https://www.facebook.com/DrHenryCloud/posts/hey-guys-one-of-my-favorite-studies-was-done-years-ago-with-monkeys-measuring-th/10152201971784571/]

Adapted from the sermon: "God's Answer for Stress": https://www.joshfranklin.org/media/series/vn9m7tk/taming-toxic-emotions