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There are times when living life in our world can be expressed only by one word: a burden. Especially this is so in the lives of Christians.

Once one believes in Jesus Christ, and begins to change, it may seem that their life and the whole world has changed. Of course, the world is changing - faster that ever before, ever since God created it. The world - and it's inhabitants - have been changing ever since creation.

But for the Christian, their personal world may seem to have become completely out of time with what is going on in the world, the lives of those around them, their loved ones, and life in general. And this also is true. This is true first of all because the Christian begins to see everything through a different lense.The Christian begins to see everything differently.

Because of this, the Christian is beginning to view the world, especially their personal world, as though they have been born into another life. And, they have. Sometimes instantly, sometimes over a period of time. They are changing from the inside out. And this makes the world outside seem to be changing. In reality, it is they who are changing.

And this is good. This is God's will. Notice:

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (2 Corinthians 5:17)

In these "new things", one can become overwhelmed with the new state of existence the Christian now must function in. Whether on the job, or at home, or dealing with events that seem to clash against this new way of thinking, living, and relating to others.

As time goes by, a devout Christian becomes more and more like Jesus Christ. As this occurs, experiences, obligations, and especially relationships to others, also seem to change. Since the truly converted Christian strives to obey God, this new life can become a very heavy burden. The world around may not seem as easy to navigate in as before.

It may become hostile, and not as accepting of you as before.This can escalate, whether on the job, or with neighbors, friends. They begin to treat you differently. Eventually, your circumstances may begin to produce a very heavy burden. At times it may becomes heavy and almost impossible to live in and function as Christ would have you to function.

Eventually, you may ask yourself. how can I possibly continue living as Jesus Christ would have me live. Where can I turn...how can I get some relief?

There is an answer. It is so profound and yet so simple as to easily be overlooked through all our troubles. But it is the answer to all burdens - whether light or heavy. It is simple. But often overlooked because of the weight of our burdens. If you will combine two scriptures, you will have a formula for encouragement and relief:

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will [a]ease and relieve and [b]refresh [c]your souls.]" - Matthew 11:28
"Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." - 1 Peter 5:7

Go to Him and surrender in complete submission. When you do so, from the heart without reservation, your burdens will become lighter day after day.

"Voice of Inspiration" from Andy Castro

I See Dead People (Updated Version)