Traveling has truly slowed down in the recent months. Many of us have postponed vacations. Some have put off taking trips, holding conferences, going on retreats and all types of gatherings have been limited or placed on hold due to the recent pandemic. However, when we do travel - we tend to take so much with us; many things that we do not need. We pack for weeks and only plan to stay for days. We tend to try to take everything - hoping that we did not leave anything back. We pack several suitcases, a carry on bag, duffle bags, make- up case, computer bags (so much baggage) - we are weighed down on every side. We take everything except for the kitchen sink. Shoulders hurting, back pain, hands aching and knees buckling - but we have everything! All the baggage that we need and want.
Why do we pack so much stuff?
Why do we think that we need to take everything with us when vacationing?
Why carry so much baggage?
Unfortunately, as Christians we tend to do the same. We carry so much stuff (baggage; unnecessary things - those things that will weight us down. We care ANGER, PAIN, FEAR, DOUBT, BITTERNESS, WORRY, INSECURITIES, INADEQUACIES, UNFORGIVENESS, DISSAPPOINTMENT, ANXIETY and so much MORE.
Merriam Webster dictionary defines baggage as "intangible things" (feelings, circumstances, or beliefs) that get in the way.
Let's get rid of the baggage. Especially if it is weighing us down. Baggage will drain our energy, it will destroy relationships, it steals our joy & peace and hinders our relationship with God.
How to get rid of baggage.
Today I encourage you to cast your every care, no matter what it may be, no matter how difficult things may look and feel - I encourage you to cast your every care on the Lord - instead of worrying - meditate on Gods Word - Joshua 1:8. We cast our cares by prayer - praying without ceasing - 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18. Replace your doubt, fear and pain with the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of the Almighty God.
The MSG Bible tells us in Psalm 55:22 to "pile our troubles on God's shoulders - that He will carry our Lord, that He will help us out". We pile our troubles by "trusting in the Lord with our whole heart and leaning not to our own understanding - but in ALL our ways acknowledging Him - Proverbs 5:3-6. When afraid - put your trust in the Lord - Psalm 56:3. Keep your mind stayed on Jesus - Psalm 26:3. Fix your thoughts - Phil. 4:8. Be strong and courageous - don't be discouraged - Joshua 1:9.And by "encouraging one another and building each other up" - 1 Thessalonians 5:11. So, today I come standing in agreement with you and believing with and for you - that your heavy load (baggage)is getting lighter in the name of Jesus. It's too heavy for you. It's weighing you down. Give your baggage to the Lord.