We have all heard the saying, " Don't reinvent the wheel". Why recreate anything that has already been done and mastered? Would it not be of more benefit to simply reap the benefits of tasks already completed?
Then why do we insist on reinventing the cross?
It is true, we all have struggles. God assures us in His word that we can in fact expect difficulties in this life (James 1:2; 1 Peter 4:12; Psalm 34:19). But that does not mean we have to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders.
Why?
Because the weight of the world has already been conquered.
When Jesus hung on the cross, said "It is finished," hung his head and gave up his spirit (John 19:30) he meant IT IS FINISHED. Your depression is finished, your worry, your sorrow, your lonely nights, your broken relationships, your financial struggles are all finished. Every possible hardship we can ever face is already finished even when the struggle remains.
I recently heard a song on the radio that said, "I have been fighting a battle that has already been won". Everyday, when we make the choice to carry our situation as if it is a heavy cross on our back, we are fighting a battle that is finished. Yes, your body still may have cancer cells, but it is finished. Yes you may still be without a job, but it is finished. Yes you may still be alone, but it is finished. That cross has already been carried by the hands of Jesus Christ.
Before the inception of any difficulty we face, Gad has already won. All He asks is that we be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10). In quietness and trust is our strength (Isaiah 30:15) and He delights in those who trust Him even when it hurts.
So with whatever struggle you are facing, give it to Jesus. Our Savior says, "Come to me you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). Don't fight a battle that isn't yours. Lay all your worries, all your pain and sorrow at the feet of Jesus.
Don't recreate the cross. It is finished, and it has already been won.
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. - John 16:33
