The Yoke that Heals

 "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me..."Matthew 11:29 NIV

This verse comes after one in which Jesus invites weary, burdened people to come to him for rest. When animals are trained to work with another animal yoked to them, usually an older, experienced animal is paired with the young one so that the older one can model the appropriate behaviour.  Being yoked with Jesus is not just about being attached to him, it means that we are actively looking to him to show us how to live our lives. We listen to his teaching and we move in the same direction as he does. When we don't struggle in our harness but follow his lead, the yoke is easy, not pulling against us and hurting us, and our problems and concerns are shared with our Lord.  Harmony between the yoked partners brings beauty to life.

Dear Lord, thank you for your offer to carry our burdens with us. Thank you for teaching us and leading us in your gentle way. May I always come to you with an open heart when I am feeling weary and overburdened.

Only From God

 "Remember the Lord your God...he who gives you the ability to produce wealth..." Deuteronomy 8:18 NIV

We are nothing without the abilities, health, personalities that God has given us. Some people have sharp minds and lots of energy and that enables them to become successful in the world, probably admired by those around them.  We pride ourselves on our talents, our good looks, our jobs, our wealth and yet it is only because of the way God made us that we have those things.  We need to be grateful, not proud, and ask God how we should be using the gifts he has given us so that we can further his kingdom and benefit others.  We need to remember the Lord, the Creator and Giver of all life. Then the love we have for God and other people will grow.

Lord, get rid of the pride I have about my gifts. When I am enjoying the blessings in my life, let me always remember that all good things come from you. Thank you, for being a generous provider. Help me to emulate your spirit.

A Good Land

"For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land... " Deuteronomy 8:6 NIV

Following this verse, the author describes a land with plenty of water, bountiful crops, and even iron and copper.  A perfect land is promised for those who follow the Lord. Sometimes this is indeed what happens in the earthly life of a nation, or person, that puts God at its centre.  They are blessed with good productive land and a peaceful life. But what about those situations where God's people end up in difficult circumstances? What about the apostles who were martyred? Paul who was abused and sent to jail? How does this promise apply? The eternal promise is what is important here. God's promises extend to the time after our physical bodies die. We may, in this life, experience hardship but for eternity, we are promised a joyful, abundant life.

Dear Father, thank you for the blessings you have given me in this life. Remind me, when difficulty comes my way, that this life on earth is just a speck in the vastness of eternity. Thank you for reassuring us that you are bringing us into a good land where your blessings are forever.