Cast and Leave It

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

One of the most powerful gifts we have as believers is the ability to lay our burdens at the feet of Jesus. We are often weighed down by the stresses, worries, and anxieties of life. The responsibilities we carry can feel overwhelming, and it may seem as though there is no end in sight. But God’s Word offers us a comforting truth: we do not have to carry these burdens alone.

When we take our worries and anxieties to the Lord, He invites us to leave them there. It means believing that He is both willing and able to take care of the things that we cannot handle. Yet, how often do we find ourselves taking those very same burdens back, allowing them to dominate our thoughts and hearts over and over again?

When we pray and lay our concerns before Him, we are acknowledging His sovereignty and love. But true peace comes when we don’t pick those concerns back up but instead trust God’s timing and provision.

Just like the old hymn says, “Take your burdens to the Lord and leave them there.” This is a daily practice, a moment-by-moment decision to trust in His care for us.

Mindful Moment of Reflection:

What burdens are you carrying today that you need to leave at the feet of Jesus? Are you willing to fully trust Him with your concerns, or are you still holding on to them in your own strength?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for the invitation to bring my burdens to You. I confess that I often struggle to leave them in Your hands and instead try to take control of things that only You can handle. Help me to release my worries, fears, and stresses to You fully, trusting in Your goodness and provision. Fill me with Your peace as I choose to trust You. Teach me to rely on Your strength and not my own, knowing that You care for me deeply. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

May this devotion be a reminder that we can walk in peace when we take our burdens to the Lord—and leave them there.

The Closest Friend

No matter how close or strong your relationships may seem, there will inevitably come a time when someone you care about disappoints you. It could be unintentional—maybe your best friend, who’s always been there for you, is suddenly going through their own struggles and isn’t emotionally available when you need them the most. Or perhaps your spouse is overwhelmed with work or responsibilities, and even though they love you, they just don’t have the energy or focus to offer the support you need in that moment. These situations can leave you feeling hurt, frustrated, and maybe even a little isolated.

It's natural to feel let down when people close to you aren't able to meet your expectations. You might even start to question the strength of your relationships or wonder if you’re going through this alone. But take heart—there is One who never fails. Jesus, our ultimate friend and Savior, is closer than anyone on earth could ever be. He understands every burden you carry, every tear you shed, and every moment when you feel let down by others. In His love, there is no emotional distance, no lack of time, and no failure to show up.

Unlike human relationships, which can be imperfect and messy, Jesus’s love is constant. He is always near, ready to listen, comfort, and strengthen you in ways that no one else can. When others unintentionally fall short, Jesus steps in with open arms and an unfailing promise that He will never leave or forsake you. He is the one friend who is truly dependable, never too busy or distracted to care for your heart.

In those moments when you feel alone or disappointed, hold on to this truth. While human relationships have their limitations, God’s love knows no bounds. You can always trust that Jesus will be there, carrying you through the storm, filling the gaps that others cannot fill, and providing peace and comfort when you need it most.

So, when your friends or loved ones can’t be there for you, don’t lose hope. Lift your eyes to the One who never disappoints. Draw near to Him, and let His presence sustain you through the ups and downs of life. He is the friend who stays closer than a brother, a faithful refuge in times of trouble. You are never alone.

Mindful Moment of Reflection: 

When was the last time you felt disappointed by someone close to you? How did you handle that situation emotionally and spiritually? 

Do you find it easy or difficult to turn to Jesus in moments of disappointment? What are some ways you can invite Him into those difficult moments more intentionally?

Prayer: 

Lord, help me to trust in You above all. When others let me down or I feel alone, remind me of Your constant presence and faithfulness. Guide me in my relationships and give me the wisdom to discern who to trust and how to navigate emotional challenges with grace and integrity. Amen.