One way to define spiritual life is getting so tired and fed up with yourself you go on to something better, which is following Jesus.
– Eugene H. Peterson.
Are you familiar with Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan? All genuine Christians can relate to this allegorical story. Often we are swamped with all various trials coming to us in different directions. We tend to forget what is really at stake in our journey in this life, and that is our chance of eternal life with our Saviour and Heavenly Father. Let us reflect on what burden should be at the top of our priority
Bible Reading
Today’s devotional reading is from the Book of Matthew 11:28-30. Please, read our recent devotional from the Book of 1 Kings 15:4-5: God’s Patience And Impartiality To His People
Burdens Come In Different Forms
When I was in high school, achieving good grades was my burden, and in college, passing my subjects. After graduation, to pass the licensing exam and be employed. Once employed, to excel in my career. I bet all of us have burdens in the same areas, one way or another.
We face challenges more serious and severe than what I have stated above. And all these burdens are real and well-grounded. Moreover, calling Jesus’ name on these trials is what we do because we know we are dependent on Him for guidance and support. The verses today speak about how Jesus is willing to give us rest and reassurance that He is taking care of His sheep.
Burden Of Our Spiritual Poverty
The main message of the verses is not only on our worldly burdens. Furthermore, the verses talk about our constant turning away from God. Our burden is because of spiritual bankruptcy. You may not notice it, but we keep on trying to do good to try and earn our way to heaven. Although, that does not happen and will never likely occur.
Our spiritual poverty is the burden Jesus is talking about. Likewise, that is what the main character in the Pilgrim’s Progress was carrying. The knowledge of one’s sins and impending doom. Nevertheless, Jesus sacrificed His life for our sake. But only if we answer His call for repentance and following Him. Are you ready to make that decision? Accept Jesus Now.
Reflection
This is the time for your journaling. Reflect on these questions. Ask the Holy Spirit to test your faith and your walk with Christ.
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? — 2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV.
- What are the biggest burdens in your life?
- How do you deal with or manage them?
- Why do you think we have similar yet different burdens?
- Do you see others’ burdens?
- How do you help them with these?
- Do you point them to Jesus who can help them?
Related Posts
- The Law of Christ
- Cast Your Burdens To Him Who Can Sustain You
- How To Walk Rightly With Jesus Christ?
- Is The Work Of The Holy Spirit Evident In Your Life?
- Knowledge Is A Privilege And Also A Responsibility
Prayer
Almighty Father, we give praise and worship your name. Humbly, we ask for your forgiveness of our sins (mention your sins). O Lord, Jesus Christ, we are afflicted with many trials and burdens in our journey in this life. We lift up all our concerns to your Lord. For we know that our lives are in your hands and all you do is for our good.
Especially we ask for you to take on our burden of sins. Thank you, Lord, for sacrificing your precious life for us to have an eternal life with You and the Father. We accept that our good works do not grant us heaven, but rather an outward expression for others to see how we love you as our Saviour and Lord. Grant us, Holy Spirit, the strength and faith to cling on Jesus Christ who sustains us. We pray these in Jesus’ name. Amen.
