We carry a few types of loads:

1. The load that we were created to carry- this is connected to our gifts, abilities, callings and expertise we have developed. This is a load that only we may carry, the things only we can do. We were shaped uniquely for these responsibilities.

2. The loads that life places upon us- these are burdens presented to us by life situations. Things like loss, relationship difficulties, general life struggles and difficulties. Of these loads, Scripture says "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). This is empathy- "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep" (Romans 12:15). We must be willing both to help and be helped in this regard.

3. The loads that we are not intended to carry. Somewhere along the way all of us for some reason or circumstance of life pick up a load we either were only intended to carry for a season, or were never intended to carry at all. In his book Leading On Empty, Wayne Cordeiro gave this example: "When a concern about another’s performance or a lack of leadership at work arises, we begin tracking it as if it were a personal responsibility. As a result, we worry about it, gossip in the lunchroom, and make it the topic of our conversation. It may be a legitimate concern, but it is not our responsibility.” These loads need to be immediately cut loose.

So when considering willingness or unwillingness to ask for help, it may be wise to reflect on exactly what it is we need help with. Is this a load only meant for me, a load I am meant to share, or a load I need to release?