In a world filled with chaos, anxiety, and worry, we will bear many burdens. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus makes a promise to us that if we come to Him with these burdens, He will give us rest. As children of the King, we have the privilege to come to Him and lay our burdens down at His feet. This is because Jesus desires for us to have peace in our lives. However, this peace is only attained through our surrender and continuous trust in Him. 

A yoke is a heavy wooden frame that is used to pull two oxen together. A single ox cannot handle a heavy load alone; therefore, farmer’s would yoke two to share the burden. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus uses the yoke as a metaphor to describe burdens or hardships that we may encounter. The yoke can also represent labor, service, and submission to authority. When the authority is harsh or cruel, the yoke can be oppressive. However, the yoke put in place by the Lord is freeing, as His commands are not burdensome.  

Jesus instructs us to obey the gospel, and thus submit to His higher will. When we abide under Christ’s yoke, we are aligned with him. This action balances many of the burdens we would otherwise bear alone. The peace Jesus desires for us comes once we chose to trust in Him, accept His authority and sovereignty, and ultimately surrender our lives to Him. Jesus’ yoke sets us free. He also invites us to learn from Him. He is gentle, humble, and submissive; we should follow His example. 

God’s lordship over our lives is not a burden, but a blessing. In addition to refreshing us and filling us with joy, God gives us rest, refuge, safety, and peace when we walk with Him. Despite the burdens we may inevitably face, walking with God provides refreshment and fellowship. There is no need to worry because Jesus is here for us and invites us to be yoked with Him. He wants to take away any feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and exhaustion we may be oppressed with. We all have a choice to do things our own way, or surrender them to Jesus. This is your personal invitation from Him. He can make the hard things easier. 

What burdens are you carrying that you can surrender to Jesus today? 

Can you reflect on a time when you may have endured difficult circumstances, yet still experienced indescribable peace and joy? 

Thank you, Lord, that I can come to you with my burdens. I trust you and believe that your will is best for my life. Though I may experience difficulties and challenges in my life, I am at peace because I know that you are in the yoke with me, and you promise never to leave me or forsake me. Help me to be gentle and humble like you. I surrender all my worries, fears, and anxieties to you in exchange for your peace and rest. Amen. 

Scripture References: 

John 14:27; 1 John 5:2-5; Psalm 116:7; John 7:37-38