When You’re Breaking Inside, But Don’t Want to Be a Burden

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found out that a close friend was suffering silently, not because they didn’t trust me enough to confide in me, but because they didn’t want to “bother” anyone with their pain. It’s heartbreaking.

Of course, we can’t open up to just anyone. We need wisdom and discernment to know who is trustworthy, based on their walk with God, their maturity, and whether they’re emotionally available. But that doesn’t mean you were meant to carry your burdens alone.

As believers, we’re called to build each other up, to comfort one another, and to sit with each other in love. Many of the most powerful lessons the Lord has taught me about love, forgiveness, and relationships, outside of my marriage, have come through my best friend. When we invite God into our friendships, they can become one of the most beautiful places for spiritual growth.

So if you’ve been afraid to open up lately, here’s why it might be time to reconsider:

Why You Should Confide in Godly Friends

1. It reveals who your real friends are.

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” — Proverbs 17:17

The ones who show up when it matters most are the ones you hold onto. Friends who are always MIA and only show up for the fun stuff? They might need to be in a different category.

2. It’s an opportunity to love your neighbor as yourself.

The Lord has used the hard situations my friends have shared with me to teach me how to be:

• Compassionate

• Confidential

• Present

• And to comfort others the way He has comforted me (2 Corinthians 1:4).

Whenever one of my friends tells me they feel like a burden, I ask, “Would you be okay if I went through something hard and didn’t tell you, just because I didn’t want to be a burden?”

The answer is usually “no, I would want to be there for you.”

Because when you truly love someone, their well-being matters to you.

3. It builds trust and real community.

When we open up, we create space for deeper connection. It makes it easier for others to also open up to us by letting them know that we are also a safe space for them. Vulnerability fosters trust, and trust strengthens relationships.

4. It’s Biblical.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2

You're not weak for needing someone; you're obeying God's design for community. And you're not alone in your struggle. All across the world, your brothers and sisters in Christ are facing things just like you are.

5. It breaks isolation.

The enemy thrives in darkness. The more we keep things to ourselves, the heavier they become—and the more likely we are to believe the lies:

• No one understands.

• No one cares.

• I'm alone.

• Everyone else has it all together.

  
  

Eventually, that lie convinces you that even God has forgotten you. But the truth is, He hasn’t, and neither have those He has assigned to your life.

“Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” — 1 Peter 5:9

6. It’s not about dumping, it’s about discernment.

If a friend has told you clearly that they aren't in a place to support you right now, honor that boundary. It doesn't mean they don't love you; it just means that this particular burden isn’t theirs to carry right now.

That’s why it’s so important to have God-fearing friends, people who will:

• Pray with you

• Walk with you

• And never betray your trust

But unless someone has clearly shown you that you're a burden, don't assume it.

Don't let the enemy isolate you with shame, silence, or fear.

Final Encouragement

Two are better than one.

God never meant for you to carry this weight alone. Don’t let fear, pride, or past disappointment keep you from the gift of godly friendship.

Let God lead you to the right people. And when He does, confide, connect, and grow together.

Feeling weighed down lately?

Let this be your reminder:

You’re not a burden to those who love you. You’re a blessing and an opportunity for them to also grow in their faith.

And you’re not meant to do life alone.

Let someone else be there for you today so you can also be there for them tomorrow.