Read Matthew 11:28–30
Strange, isn’t it, how we tend toward extremes? What begins as self-improvement becomes self-enslavement...what starts as merely a mellow change of pace leads to borderline fanaticism. We’re nuts! Left to ourselves, we’ll opt for extremes virtually every time. Which explains why God’s Book so often stresses moderation, self-control, softening our sharp-cornered lives with more curves that necessitate a slower pace.
Jesus Himself found it essential to escape the press of people to get His bearings. On several occasions, He arose quite early just to be alone. Immediately after His Twelve returned hot and sweaty from ministry, it was His idea that they retreat and repair. And who can ever forget His gracious invitation? I often return to it just to let the words wash over me.
Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light. (Matthew 11:28–30)
In a high-tech day of high-level pressures, He offers us rest. Amid the rancour of politics, He’s gentle. While competition is rugged and being in partnership with hard-charging, bullish leaders is tough, being yoked with Him is easy. He said that—it’s easy. And instead of increasing our anxiety overload, He promises to make it lighter. Is it any wonder Jesus’ style and message created such a stir? While the religious establishment piled on more guilt and shame with their rigid lists of “dos and don’ts” Jesus quietly offered grace. He still does.
It’s quite possible you and your family are weighed down by life, pushing against the impossible odds of financial bondage or shuffling through the debris after a destructive family conflict. Perhaps you’re battling loneliness, grieving the death of your mate of many decades. No matter the burden, the answer to your need is a Person. His name is Jesus. He invites you to come to Him and simply lay your burdens at the foot of His cross. Why not do that now?
Devotional content taken from Good Morning, Lord...Can We Talk? by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2018. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries. All rights reserved.
The full devotional can be purchased at https://www.tyndale.com/p/good-morning-lord-can-we-talk/9781414380681.
