The spiritual weight chases me through the dark hours. Even my dreams are filled with prayer. Morning arrives too soon as the deep ache of fibromyalgia forces its way into my awareness. The narrow hollow at the base of neck throbs, reminding me of my frailty and this new way of living.

I think of Christ’s words, “Come to Me, all you 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.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

My heart heavy, I seek solace in the truth of my Savior. I know He is my place of refuge. My relief from the worries, costs, and overwhelm of a life full of too much other and in need of more Him.

I know I am called to pour my life out for the cause of Christ. Physically. Spiritually. Emotionally.

The word labor in this verse is the same word used in 1 Timothy 5:17 which reads, “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.”

Work in this phrase is also translated “straining”. Preaching, teaching, living, and loving–these are beautiful and worthwhile when done for His glory. But, oh, how they can deplete.

I’m learning to be satisfied with what He provides me the strength to accomplish. Honestly, I would like to be able to do more. To have the energy and productivity of the person I was a few years ago.

But when I linger there? I become no better than a Pharisee, piling useless and unattainable burdens upon myself. Do you do the same? Do you struggle with pleasing others, striving to meet their demands? Are you chasing after one goal and then another to prove to that one person–or perhaps even God–that you are worth being loved?

Oh, friend, Jesus invites us to unstrap the baggage and untie the burdens. In gentle compassion, He encourages us to join Him day-by-day where we can discover soul-rest and refreshment as He takes on the heaviness of each of our loads.

Action Step

Jesus tells us that we will find rest when we meet with Him. If you don’t already, hard schedule an appointment with Jesus each day this week at a time when you know you won’t be interrupted.

Start with just five minutes of prayer and reading a passage of the Bible or sign up for my free Bible study excerpt, The Persevering Believer: Holding Onto Hope in Every Season here.

Mondays   InstaEncouragements/ Mandy and Michele, Kingdom Bloggers

Tuesdays GraceFull Tuesday/Anchored Abode

Wednesdays  Recharge Wednesday / Tell His Story

Thursdays Heart Encouragement  /  Tune In Thursday  /Salt and Light

Friday Faith on Fire, Blogger Voices Network , Grace and Truth Linkup/ Five Minute Friday