“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 KJV)
Stress has a way of complicating one’s life. It raises doubts and fears. It creates anxiety. It brings on depression, which may incapacitate you. If it isn’t dealt with properly, it may create physical health problems.
As a pastoral leader, I do not have the luxury of “letting off steam” with just anyone. Wisdom dictates that my available “safety valves” should be highly selective and trustworthy. Naturally, I want someone experienced in pastoral ministry and able to easily identify with my struggles. Not so much experience with my specific issue but plenty of wisdom about tough, human circumstances.
My 20-month old grandson, Grant, spends his days at our house while his dad works. When he takes a nap, he curls up next to his G-G or Poppa and doodles with our hands. At times, Grant is more agitated than others. He will rub our hands, fiddle with a finger, or grasp a thumb. It is as if he needs the security and assures himself with this simple technique of touch.
That’s what stress does, it agitates you to the point of need for reassurance and security. That’s when I put my hand in the hand of the Lord. I need the comfort of knowing that He is near and in control. Just like a little child who needs the reassurance and protection of a parent, so I need the close fellowship of the Holy Spirit. And I have his assurance that He will give me rest from every stressful issue.
Dear Father, thank your for your abiding presence and comfort. Grant us rest from our stressful burdens. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged by the rest that Christ gives,