I was thinking of this verse today and thought of the encouragement it always brings me. This verse doesn't tell me to just bring certain cares - like the big earth shattering, life altering cares, it tells me to cast ALL my cares, anxieties, heartaches and pain on Him - because HE cares for me. Wow! This verse encourages me so much on those days, where things don't quite go as planned, when the outlook is a bit bleak and when I just can't keep the kitchen clean. I know that last one was just a personal testimony - anybody relate...why does the kitchen stay so dirty? But in the midst of my thoughts, this verse always brings comfort! As I typed this, I thought of this verse as well from Psalms 94:19:
In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul.
I remember also a hymn I used to sing as a child - it's words still ring true as I think about casting my burdens away from me and onto Him who loves me :
Leave It There - Charles Tindley 1916
- If the world from you withhold of its silver and its gold,
And you have to get along with meager fare,
Just remember, in His Word, how He feeds the little bird—
Take your burden to the Lord and leave it there.
- Refrain: Leave it there, leave it there, Take your burden to the Lord and leave it there; If you trust and never doubt, He will surely bring you out— Take your burden to the Lord and leave it there.
- If your body suffers pain and your health you can’t regain, And your soul is almost sinking in despair, Jesus knows the pain you feel, He can save and He can heal— Take your burden to the Lord and leave it there.
- When your enemies assail and your heart begins to fail, Don’t forget that God in Heaven answers prayer; He will make a way for you and will lead you safely through— Take your burden to the Lord and leave it there.
- When your youthful days are gone and old age is stealing on, And your body bends beneath the weight of care; He will never leave you then, He’ll go with you to the end— Take your burden to the Lord and leave it there.
Such good words - such timeless ideas. If you'd like to learn more about Charles Tindley you can check out this really interesting story here.
Whatever it is you are facing be encouraged! Cast your cares, not just the big ones, ALL of our cares on the only One who is able to bear them, and trust that He cares for you! What Joy and Peace and Comfort this thought brings!