Emotional Baggage

"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."

Matthew 11:29

Today, everyone you know is "poor" - or lacking - in spirit in some way. They may be brokenhearted over a trial or ruined relationship, captive to negative memories of the past, or disappointed by unfulfilled dreams. This emotional weight is not only a burden in their everyday lives, it's indicative that the enemy has a stronghold.

   Whether your heartaches, afflictions, and trials stem from external or internal causes, the pains are real. And unless you deal with them, they will keep on harming you. Those feelings, thought patterns, and past experiences will continue to traumatize you each time you recall them and will ultimately keep you from experiencing the freedom that Christ Jesus offers.

   Friend, do not be ashamed. All of us struggle. But you must turn your burdens over to Christ and allow Him to liberate you. He will teach you a different way to live. So do not be afraid or discouraged. Rather, trust Him and find rest for your soul.

Jesus, I am broken and poor in many ways.

Through Your Spirit, liberate me from my

emotional baggage so I may be truly free, amen.

In His presence . . . be free from your burdens.

Stanley, Charles F. "Emotional Baggage." Every Day in His Presence: 365 Devotions. Nashville: Thomas Nelson. p 313.