I have never been to the point of "shedding blood" to resist sin.  I believe, and am faithful, that I would do so if the situation came to me.  I have, however, had cause to "rid [myself] of every burden" while raising a family.  When a child is sick, we drop everything to help.  When the rain is coming into the house, we drop everything to repair it.  When we receive a call of a death in the family, we drop everything to be with our loved ones. 

These short-term life occurrences reflect who we are, show our compassion for others, and prepare us for the final "race that lies before us" to keep "our eyes fixed on Jesus."  These life occurrences will become less and less the more we focus on Jesus.

Yes, it is a struggle, but the reward is to be with the "leader and perfecter of faith."

"May your hearts be ever merry!"