Jesus had advice for those who wearied themselves trying to do things in their own strength: "Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30).
A yoke was an instrument built for two oxen to work together in tandem. Ofter farmers would pair up and experience animal with a younger ox. Thus the younger one could learn from the seasoned animal. Jesus' invitation is for you to join up with Him - to walk alongside Him and follow His lead. When you labor where He is already at work, He accomplishes His purposes through you. The experience is not meant to be exhausting or burdensome, but exhilarating and fulfilling. Sadly, the chronic ailment of Christians today is burnout, particularly among pastors and those in Christian ministry. They grom weary doing things for God in their own strength. Yet Jesus promised that those who walk alongside Him and work with Him will find rest for their souls. God has more than enough knowledge, power, and resources to accomplish whatever He desires. Our involvement - at His invitation - is a privilege that should invigorate us and keep us close to Him. If you are worn out or stressed by your "Christian duties," perhaps you are not properly yoked to your Master.
~ Inspiration from Experiencing God - Knowing and Doing the Will of God, by Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King
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