Good evening family of God,

This week we talked about faith, going deeper and how our story can help others. Today, because I am one to take on more than I can really shoulder, I want to search out what the scripture says about the yolk that fits. Have you taken on more than you should?

Just because we are seeing so many around us does not necessarily mean that God wants us involved in everybodies business. If I begin to worrry about things in my life, then it seems to grow where I worry about the things in others lives. After having a long discussion with my husband, I know this is true. I sure don't like being exposed. Especially when the implication is that I am worrying or discontent. I really don't like that in me. Confessing as it is revealed is healthy. Listening to what the Holy Spirit may speak through another is wise. Maturity is wealth in the Lord.

Galatians 5:1 says, "In this freedom Christ has made us free [and completely liberated us]; stand fast then, and do not be hampered and held ensnared and submit again to a yoke of slavery [which you have once put off]." We are made free in Christ and do not have to continue in worry like the unsaved. Trust conquers worry!

There is a different yoke for us to wear. It is only one side that we carry, Jesus bears up the other side. Two oxen share the load and the yoke is to keep them from straying off the desired path. If we think our burdens are for us to carry alone, we have been decieved. I forget this sometimes. I grew up being told that I had to pull my weight and do my part. For years that small part of being in a family began to transform into believing that part was never enough, it had to be more. To the point that the more became very lopsided and without Christ's direction.

I am returning to the freedom that allows Jesus to help me carry only what He intended for my shoulders. A yoke that fits properly and doesn't bruise or rub me raw. Does the world make that kind of yoke? No. It cannot because no one knows us better than our Father in heaven!

Are you ready to feel light hearted? Are you longing for a lesser burden? Jesus wants that for us too! Look at Matthew 11:28-30..."Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]" Does the Lord say, only some are eligible for this relief? He says, All.

"Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls. For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good--not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant) and My burden is light and easy to be borne."

As we learn of the Lord, we will find every blessing! I have spent so much wasted time trying to please others and make things work for my own reasons. I can't fix myself and I have no business trying to fix others! Strong words, I know. But, if I want to really experience the joyous freedom of walking with the Lord then, I must do things His way. Did He ask me to do anything to be forgiven of my sins? Like, go to a cross? No. He paid the full debt that I owed. So it is with my walk of faith. He wants our hands free, our shoulders upright and our feet heading on the path of His purpose. This is freedom to me!

You know, I had no idea what this day would bring. I didn't know I would be in a discussion for hours over my need to be in control. But, I am grateful because the core of my hurt is brought on by my own pride, to keep a handle on so many wheels. There is only one steering wheel on my car so it only requires one driver in that position. That should be the Lord Jesus Christ. Today, I moved to the passenger seat. Emotionally I am drained. It is a fight to kill the flesh! But, I am coming out a winner because of the Love of God.

Will you let Him take the other side of that yoke and allow Him to carry the load? I speak from personal experience and in no wise want to say more than what the Lord would say to you. You can hear His voice.

Father God, we thank you most of all for sending Your Son for us. We need You. We trust You and long to let You be Lord and Master of every step. Thank you for empowering us to let you do what needs to be done in our lives. Bless Your holy name. We give you honor and glory dear Lord. In the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

The Lord bless you and keep you as you walk hand in hand with Him. We will see you soon!

Abundance is...my burden is light!