Introductory Thoughts
The implications of this passage may seem like an oxymoron to most readers! The Lord invited all that labour and are heavy laden to accept a yoke. (A yoke is to be placed upon a pair of animals to attach to a plow or cart in order to help them labour together.) Why would the Lord invite those weary from labour to wear a yoke? And then, why would the Lord promise rest by inviting people to labour? The answer lies in Matthew 11:30 where the Lord said, “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Rarely will one find labour in this world that can refresh the labourer, but the Lord promises to labour with those who labour for Him (1 Corinthians 3:9), therefore making His labour refreshing.
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): Our work should never be a burden because the Lord is always working with us (Exodus 33:14; Isaiah 41:13; Mark 16:20; 2 Corinthians 6:1a). Jesus knew this (John 16:32) and so did Paul (2 Timothy 4:16-17).
-
(For everyone): Are you weary from labouring for the things of this world? Are you weary from labouring for the Lord in your own strength? Are you willing to take the Lords yoke upon you and be His colabourer?
-
Are you tired? Are you on the verge of giving up on life? Will you take the Lords easy yoke and light burden?
Prayer Thoughts
- Thank the Lord for the rest He provides in labour.
- Ask God for the rest you so desperately need.
Song
COME UNTO ME (JONES)
