“Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee.”1 Those words resonate in the hearts of all who worry, all who are burdened in some way, all who face challenges and disappointments—and that is each of us.
Life is difficult. Sometimes we make it more difficult by comparing ourselves with others who seem to have a perfect life. From the outside looking in, appearances can be deceptive. We see only snapshots of people’s lives, brief glimpses of best behavior. We need not despair when we hear others talk of their high-achieving children, their successful and exciting careers, their marvelous lives filled with adventure. Life—in all its aspects—is rarely like that for anyone. Some part of others’ lives may be wonderful. We can be glad for them. But let’s keep perspective. No one gets through life without experiencing heartache, pain, or discontent. Look in anyone’s heart and home, and you will find some cause for sorrow.
But life is not all sorrow. With anguish comes the promise of peace. With despair comes the hope of happiness. If we realize that life is the good and the bad, enjoyment and heartache, pleasure and pain, we will be less likely to feel disheartened when all is not ideal.
And remember, life is not a competition. Those who find real joy are not discouraged by the success of others but are more interested in how they can make the best of their given situations. We—our children, our families—are not competing against anyone else. Each life has a purpose. Each person has great potential. Let go of the comparisons and do the best you can each day to love, to be kind, to smile, and to continue on. The Psalmist assured us that the Lord slumbers not nor sleeps as He watches over us.2 He will sustain us.
Program #3922
1. Psalm 55:22.
2. See Psalm 121:4.