I recognize that the Bible teaches that Christians must “love one another” (1 Pet. 4:8), “care for one another” (1 Cor. 12:24), “serve one another” (Gal. 5:13) and have “compassion for one another” (1 Pet. 3:8). We have a responsibility to “do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Gal. 6:10). But, as brethren, we also have a responsibility to measure our actions and our motives, so as to not intentionally or avoidably be a burden on others.
Read these words that Paul spoke to his brethren and see if you have this kind of heart. “When I was present with you, and in need, I was a burden to no one…in everything I kept myself from being burdensome to you…” (2 Cor. 11:9). “You remember, brethren, our…laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you” (1 Thess. 2:9). “You yourselves know how you ought to follow us…we [did not] eat anyone’s bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil…that we might not be a burden to any of you…” Why, Paul? “To make ourselves an example of how you should follow us” (2 Thess. 3:7-9). I think this is interesting. Do you?