Being the strong friend doesn’t mean you have to carry everything alone, or to carry anything at all. Sometimes when we hold onto the mindset of being “strong” all the time, we neglect our mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. We’re carrying our problems, and people also lean onto us for theirs... which it is nothing wrong with being a shoulder to cry on, but sometimes it’s like “dang, do people not think I have things weighing me down either?”
Today, I want you to stop neglecting yourself and your needs. Take care of you at times, you need you. If you passed away or went away today, people are going to find someone else to lean on. Being strong is being able to handle what life throws your way and not throwing in the towel, but being strong doesn’t mean that others shouldn’t check in on you. God never intended for strength to just be about never needing help. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, this scripture reminds us that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness.
Being strong is handling what life throws at you without giving up, but it’s also recognizing that you are human—and that humans need care, support, and rest. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” This means you don’t have to be everything for everyone; you have a refuge in Him where you can rest, cry, and let go.
I want you to think on when is the last time someone GENUINELY checked in on you? Or to think about when was the last time you checked on a friend you think is strong enough to handle everything? Check on your strong friends, check on their mental health... ask how their life is going? Be a listening ear for them, and a shoulder to lean on for them. The strong friends need your help just like anyone else, they are going through life just like you.
God commanded us in Galatians 6:2, to bear one another’s burdens. He calls us to take care of the ones who handle their pain silently, he doesn’t want our brother or sister to go through it alone. Be a listening ear and a supportive shoulder. Pray with them, encourage them, and remind them that it’s okay to lean on God—and on others—without shame.
I challenge you today to take care of one another, just because on the outside they look strong doesn’t mean on the inside they aren’t breaking down. Be there for them, love them, cover them. To my strong people and friends, it is okay to be “soft”... it doesn’t make you weak. It is okay to ask for help, God placed these wonderful people in your life for a reason. I love you, and just know God loves you more. Stay encouraged!
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