I read this statement today in one of my devotionals: ”Jesus came to bring us blessings, not burdens.”
My heart feels so heavy when I meet God-loving people who are so weighed down with burdens – either from others or from themselves. They’ve become so discouraged that the mere thought of worshipping the Lord is just another “thing to do” on their list. Sometimes it causes a callousness to set in, or a heart to become critical. Sometimes it crushes and feels so heavy that worship is considered a lost cause. Worship is never meant to be a burden, but a release. As a worship leader, my prayer is that I am encouraging my church family to use songs as one expression of worship…to encourage them to cry out, never command. Worship isn’t for the perfect scenario. It’s for the mountain top and the valley. I’ve had days when I’ve worshipped out of a thankful and glad heart, rejoicing and celebrating. I’ve worshipped out of surrender, yielding my will to His. And I’ve worshipped out of release, letting go of frustrations, distractions, disappointments and my mistakes.
Jesus said something truly lovely in Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yolk upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yolk is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
We travel through life with way too much luggage…bags that are given to us (unrealistic expectations or condemnations) or bags that are of our own making (self-pity, feelings of worthlessness, unforgiveness, pride). The “yolk” that Jesus gives us replaces all our worldly baggage. His burden for us is just to follow after Him, love Him an live in His blessings of eternal life, love, joy, peace, etc. so we can then share it with others. Isn’t that the point? Love God. Love people (to quote IH’s recent album title). During the most trying times, I’ve found that worship is my way out. It connects me with God beyond what my flesh feels or what my mind thinks. Worship can bring encouragement and courage to stand. Worship can bring healing to a broken heart. Worship can remind you of who God is and of His promises. On Christ the Solid Rock I stand, all other other ground is sinking sand…
We can freely engage with God daily and find freedom and strength. So check all those other bags at the door. They aren’t for you anyway.
