Three men were convicted of a crime in a certain semi-civilized country. Their punishment was, they were to be exiled from the country. A prison truck would take them to the desert at the country’s border and let them out. If they died in the desert, it would be considered as their just reward. If they made it across, their status would change from criminal to hero, and no one would harm them. No man had yet survived the journey. The men had to cross on foot, and they were each allowed only one provision.

The first man requested water, and was given as much as he could carry. The second man asked for fruit, and was given as many oranges and lemons as he could bear. The third man’s request was for a car door. It was also granted.

The guard drove the men to the desert’s edge and released them. “Wait,” said the guard. “I have to ask. Why the car door?”

The man replied, “Simple. In case I get hot, I can roll the window down.”

What a needless burden to carry. Instead of being a help to him, the energy wasted carrying that door around would surely bring that man’s ultimate death even quicker.

Did you know that carrying around burdens such as worry and fear are bad for our health? That’s the state the devil wants us to be in, but Jesus wants us to walk in perfect peace. If something is troubling you, turn it over to Jesus. He will remove the worries and anxieties, and replace them with perfect peace.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.