A Worthwhile Exchange

Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30

This passage is not only an extravagant invitation, it is also full of promise! It is not intended to simply be a nice saying on a plaque or inscribed in a card, it is meant to be a life line for our daily lives. God desires for us to take Him up on His invitation and become the recipients of the rest that He offers. And yet, many of us live out our days without experiencing such a profound transaction of coming with burdens and leaving with rest.

I have often had the tendency to seek help, healing, and rest in other sources. Difficulties and problems frequently led me to call or email a friend. I wanted them to give me answers, make me feel better, cheer me up, give me assurance, and fix my life. They were not only my life line but my safety net. And through the years God has graciously allowed me to have such friends. But as long as I continued to turn to them with my tears, questions, and hurts I was stunting my own growth and relationship with my heavenly Father. I was better equipped to hear their voice rather than God’s voice. At the moment it felt better but over time it left me handicapped. This falls short of God’s intent for me!

I am presently facing a battle that involves other people’s hearts. I know things will get harder before they get easier. Last night found me on my knees pleading for wisdom and discernment. Did I have the thought of emailing a wise counselor and asking advice? For a brief moment. But then like a ray of sunshine the thought occurred to me, “I don’t need __________, she really can’t help me. I need You, God.” And today’s passage came to life for me. God and I have work to do but we are finally doing it together! It is His way of maturing my faith, infusing me with confidence in Himself, and nurturing the deepest parts of me. I gladly exchange the burdens for rest!

Father, we were not meant to carry the things that weigh us down. As I slip into the yoke of Your presence this morning may the ramifications astound me! Amen.