Doug and Michelle Hunt – MERCYWorldwide Coordinators for the Phoenix International Christian Church and Bible Talk leaders in the Chandler/Gilbert House Church
“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
Give Jesus Your Burden
The holiday season (Christmas and New Year’s) can be a stressful time of the year. While it remains true the world presents this time as festive and of good cheer, it also remains true that we oft-times allow the decadence of the holiday to consume and burden us. However, the real question is are we just now consumed – or have we been slowly digested throughout the year?
- Have you given Jesus your burden? (No really, have you?)
- No? Because you’re the tough one, right?
In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God. – Psalm 10:4
Furthermore, if we reflect on Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus specifically instructs us to trust him, lean against Him, and turn over the burden on our hearts and minds to Him. He not only wants us to put our confidence in Him, but he also wants to give us rest. He wants to give us peace of mind and even comfort us! (c.f. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5)
Rest With God
Rest. Take an opportunity to refresh your mind and body! After all, even God rested!
“By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.” – Genesis 2:2-3
As disciples we can have a pretty aggressive life tempo! This tempo can create a burden in our hearts and minds. We seek first the kingdom! (Matthew 6:33) We strive to be excellent for Christ at work and/or school! (Colossians 3:23-24) We strive to raise and build exemplary families! (1 Timothy 3:4-5)
Take a break during this holiday! It is ok! Do you need help relaxing? Cry out to GOD! He will give you rest! Psalm 34:17 says “…the righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.” (see also Matthew 11:28-30)
Additionally, Philippians 4:6-8 says “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Clear your calendar and start your day with uninterrupted time with your heavenly Father. Give God your burden and He will give you rest!
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