Bills are due. Unfavorable medical diagnosis. Deadline is approaching. Political turmoil. Children making bad decisions. Strained family relationship. Overwhelmed at work. 

What has you stressed this morning? What is demanding your attention? What is causing your sleepless nights?

Jesus has given us a promise to not only relieve the stress but to give us rest. Bring your worries, your cares, your burdens, your sleepless nights to Him and He in exchange will give you rest. I don’t care who you are or what you believe, that’s a pretty sweet deal.

Even though I want to take advantage of this promise, how do I accomplish this? How do I make this exchange? 

Jesus gives us the image of being yoked together. A yoke is a wooden beam between two animals that allow them to carry a load together. So picture yourself yoked to Jesus. Whatever challenge is presented to you today, know that you are in this with Jesus. 

You are yoked with an overcomer, therefore you overcome. You are yoked with the one who has resurrection power, therefore you have resurrected power carrying the load. You are yoked with the one who conquered sin, death, and the grave, therefore you can conquer sin, death, the grave, overdue bills, unfavorable medical diagnosis, wayward children, a bad marriage, unemployment, looming deadlines.

Imagine yourself yoked with Jesus. Then allow him to be the strong one. Follow His lead. Allow Him to navigate this course for you. He will always lead you to victory. He will lead you to refreshing waters where you will find much needed rest.

““Are you weary, carrying a heavy burden? Then come to me. I will refresh your life, for I am your oasis. Simply join your life with mine. Learn my ways and you’ll discover that I’m gentle, humble, easy to please. You will find refreshment and rest in me. For all that I require of you will be pleasant and easy to bear.””

Matthew 11:28-30 TPT