Taking Him Up on His Invitation

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Jesus has many commands and promises throughout Scripture and this is one of my favorites. His is a continual invitation for each of us. It is imperative that I understand His desire is that I find the things I need in Him. When I come He gives! I am asking myself this morning, what is it that causes me to hesitate in coming to Him? Many things.

Sometimes it has been a misunderstanding of what the Christian life is like. I had the idea that it was possible in this life to live above pain, sorrow, hurt, disappointment, grief, loneliness, emptiness, and failure. When I would experience any of those things I thought I must be doing something wrong. This would lead me to deny they existed or minimize the effects they had on me. My rule of thumb was “Don’t share it. Just grin and bear it! In time it will go away!” Not good! God has had to bring me to the place of admitting to Him how I am really feeling and allow Him to comfort, encourage, and heal me. I have had to learn I am not a disappointment to Him for having the struggles. In love, He is inviting me to tell Him the truth so He can help me. I no longer need to hide from Him, fear Him, or cower in His presence.

Other times it has been because I have looked for substitutes. It seemed easier to turn to a person, read a book, listen to a song, or watch a movie. Those things can be helpful and sometimes God uses them in the process. But I am missing out on the ultimate Source of help when I fail to go directly to Him. No one knows me better, understands me more clearly, and is able to minister to me so deeply as God. He knows every issue behind my feelings and emotions. My cobweb of thoughts do not repulse Him, intimidate Him, or exasperate Him. The needs are there on a daily basis so the necessity to go to Him is on a daily basis as well.

So today I once again admit life is hard! Each day has its own sets of trials, troubles, and difficulties as well as joys, laughter, and delight. At least now I know where to go with it all. I go with openness, honesty, and expectancy!

Father, it is early and I already have things to bring to You. Thank you for the invitation and welcome mat. I know You will help me. Amen.