That Weight Is Unnecessary

As a toddler, my niece took great delight in carrying bags of every size and kind, regardless of their contents. Anyone returning home was greeted enthusiastically, not out of affection alone, but to ensure their bag was handed to her. Despite her small frame, she insisted on carrying as many bags as possible, often struggling under their weight. She stumbled frequently yet refused to let go. The burden slowed her movement and, at times, prevented her from moving at all. Still, she preferred to be carried with the bags rather than release them. She was affectionately nicknamed “ovu ngwongwo”—the carrier of baggage.

It may sound amusing, but how different are we? Many of us carry unnecessary burdens: talkativeness, busybody, idleness, temptations you fell for, self-pity, cares of this life, anxiety, worry, past mistakes, resentment, jealousy, unforgiveness, fear, unhealthy competition, misplaced priorities, craftiness, guile, backbiting, envy, hatred, malice, bitterness, excessive entanglement to the social media and the likes. These are the very weights that hinder spiritual growth.

Unhealthy competition is of no value. It does not foster growth, consistency, or meaningful achievement. Accomplishments driven by envy, resentment, or anxiety are ultimately hollow. Worry has never produced lasting change, nor has comparison strengthened purpose. Instead, our focus should remain fixed on Christ, pressing forward toward the higher calling and true reward found in Him (Philippians 3:14).

God is not concerned with the emotional burdens we choose to carry. Such weights hinder our walk with Him and do not reflect our worth. We are precious, intentionally created, and set apart. Scripture reminds us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, created in the image of God (Psalm 139:14; Genesis 1:27). This identity calls us to live with dignity, confidence, and spiritual clarity.

These burdens do not serve, but diminish us. Release them and choose a lighter way of living. Life is richer and more purposeful when we move unencumbered. Christ invites us to come to Him with our weariness, to exchange heavy loads for His yoke—one that is gentle and light (Matthew 11:28–30). He calls us not burdened, but free.