My Cross, Your Cross

I’ve Never Carried Your Cross, Nor Have You Carried Mine

Only God knows the weight of another’s cross.

Each of us is uniquely created in the image of our Father, God. And because of that, every person has walked a road unlike anyone else’s. I have never carried your cross, nor have you carried mine.

Yet how quickly we judge, assume, and even dishonor our brothers and sisters. We “think” we know what is best, and often those thoughts and opinions come not from God, but from our own pride. When we try to shape someone into what we believe they should be, we are stepping into a role that was never meant for us. That is God’s place alone.

Scripture reminds us plainly: “Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand.” (Romans 14:4)

Constructive encouragement is a blessing, but when we insist that others must see it our way, they have no space to hear from God Himself. Our calling is not to condemn but to encourage, to believe in one another, and to build each other up in love.

If what you share with someone doesn’t settle in their spirit, let it rest. Release it. Trust the Lord to do the work in their life. If they desire more, God will draw them deeper.

Instead of trying to change one another, let us pray: “Father, may Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven in their life.” That is enough.

When we go beyond this and attempt to control, manipulate, or force others into our will, we cross into dangerous territory. Scripture calls such control a form of witchcraft, because it replaces God’s authority with our own. The truth is sobering: whenever we try to bend someone to our will, we are no longer operating in love or faith, but in rebellion.

Reflection Questions

• Have I judged someone recently without truly understanding their journey?

• Am I offering encouragement from God’s heart, or trying to make others conform to mine?

• How can I practice letting go and trusting God to do the work in someone’s life?

Love, Blessings & Shalom,

Michael

Scripture for Reflection

“For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.” (1 Samuel 15:23)

Closing Prayer

Father, forgive me for the times I have judged others or tried to make them into my image instead of Yours. Help me to love without conditions, encourage without control, and trust You to do what only You can do in the lives of others. Teach me to let go and let You be God. In Jesus name, Amen