JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Key Element for Thriving Relationships is turning burdens into blessings.

One example of this is Nehemiah, who heard the report from Jerusalem, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.”

Nehemiah responded to this news with weeping. Then he prayed and fasted before God. After that, he took action by building a wall in Jerusalem. It was finished in just 52 days. His story is found in the book of Nehemiah in the Bible.

Sometimes, God puts burdens in our heart, which stir us to action when we see someone in trouble. An orphan or widow in distress, a marriage that is falling apart, the homeless, the sick, or a family who suffered loss from a storm. We can take those burdens to God and ask for opportunities to reach out with the love of Jesus.

Turning our burdens into blessings is a key element for thriving relationships that honor God.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com