Psalm 38:4, 6 For mine iniquities are gone over mine head; as an heavy burden they are too heavy for me….I am troubled; I am bowed down greatly, I go mourning all the day long.
In this life we become troubled and heavy burdened because we are sinners living in a sinful world. At times the burdens and troubles become very heavy and hard. What we don’t want to admit is that it is my sin (mine iniquities) that is the major cause of my problems. It is sin in the world and the sins of others also, but it is my own sin that is the biggest burden weighing on me. I am the problem. We could blame others or the world for our burdens, but that doesn’t take away the guilt or lift the burden.
Confession of my sins, repentance and faith lightens the burden and relieves the guilt. It is like the Pilgrim beginning his journey by kneeling at the cross and he feels the heavily burdened backpack rolling away. He is free. Matthew 11:28-29: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest….You will find rest for your souls.” A heart lightened by the Gospel is better than a heavy heart burdened by the Law. Therefore confess, repent, believe.