Take the Easy Yoke

A prayer for today by Scotty Smith, based on Matthew 11:28-30 

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matt. 11:28-30

Dear Lord Jesus, how can we not respond to such a grand and grace-full invitation? Your gentle, lowly heart is irresistible to us; and your “easy yoke and light burden,” alone, provide the rest for which we long. Thank you for being so welcoming, understanding, and kind.

Some of us are paralyzed from the lingering pain of old relational wounds—seemingly unable to get unstuck and free. Some of us are reeling from the impact of fresh betrayals and knee-buckling hard news. Some of us are much more lonely in our marriages than we ever were in our singleness. Some of us are undone by the injustices and evil we see paraded throughout the world.

Some of us seem permanently allergic to your grace—so unable to really believe you love us as much as you say you do. Some of us are quietly suffering the destructive shame of embarrassing weaknesses and uncontrollable obsessions. Some of us are tired, spent, and disillusioned, from the unrealistic demands and unexpected sucker-punches of serving you. ALL of us need you, and ALL of us are objects of your affection.

Jesus, we need you in this moment. Flood our hearts with your presence and peace. Grant us the assurance that you are enough. Give us the daily mercies and sufficient grace you have pledged.

Be the great Warrior of our hearts as you rebuke the devil on our behalf. Don’t let the dark one seize our current situations for spewing his toxins and accusations, lies and condemnation.

Jesus, help us walk today as a people of faith, hope, and love. Give us the wisdom and power you promise. Bring much glory to yourself, as we bring our restless selves to you. Write stories of redemption, refreshment and renewal, by your hand of mercy and might. So very Amen we pray, with thankfulness, in your most worthy and gracious name.

HT: Liberate