BIBLE READING: 2 Tim 2: 8 - 10 8 Always remember that Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead. This is the Good News I preach. 9 And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained. 10 So I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen.
What does this passage mean to you today?
BLOG: It's 3:18 on Monday afternoon, and I am still trying to get my brain to work. Food, sugar, caffeine, even a blast of cold air hasn't made a difference. I'm just tired.
But this is typical for most Mondays for me. After a big weekend of ministry, the body says, "That's it, I'm done."
Rest is a crucial part of our lives. It gives us strength, sharpens our minds and helps us to be healthy. I can tell the difference between 6 hours and 8 hours sleep.
Matthew 11:28-30 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Ever been spiritually exhausted? Paul tells us in Galatians to not become weary in doing good stuff. But Jesus was speaking to a people who were just exhausted from trying to do everything the religious leaders of the day were teaching. They were weary.
Jesus said that if they followed Him - His standards would be less stressful and more rewarding. The "yoke" that they would pull wouldn't be impossible. Everyone pulls a yoke. (A yoke is a wooden crosspiece that is fastened over the necks of animals so they can pull a plow or cart.) Some people pull the weight of the world. Others pull the weight of their family's needs. With all of this weight we pull, is it no wonder that people look at the church and say, "Nope, I can't do it."
But what Jesus was teaching is different. He doesn't want you to pull all that stuff. Just follow Him, and He will do all the heavy lifting for you.
He doesn't want you to see your faith in Him as being another "weight" to pull. He wants you to understand that He is right there with you. He is helping you every step of the way. Don't try to do it all on your own. Find rest for your soul
PRAY: Dear Jesus, I'm laying down my heave yoke and picking up yours instead. AMEN
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