“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt. 11:29-30)
Life has a way of piling up pressures we never asked for. We juggle work, family, and expectations. We also deal with personal struggles. It sometimes feels like we’re carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders. I’ve been there too—feeling drained, stressed, and desperate for a sense of calm that lasts longer than a fleeting moment.
That’s why the words from Matthew 11:29-30 resonate so deeply with me. They’ve taught me about finding peace. This peace goes beyond just taking a break. It is more than merely having a day off. It’s about discovering true rest for your soul.
When Jesus talks about taking His “yoke,” He’s not adding one more thing to our already long to-do lists. Instead, He’s offering to share the load. Imagine trying to carry a heavy piece of furniture by yourself—now picture someone stronger coming along to help. That’s what His yoke feels like. It is a partnership where you don’t have to do it all. Suddenly, the weight doesn’t seem so unbearable.
What makes it even more comforting is Jesus’s attitude. He’s not this harsh, demanding figure expecting perfection. His words—”gentle and humble in heart”—remind me that He meets us where we are, without judgment or unrealistic expectations. It’s like talking to a friend who truly understands you. They listen without trying to fix everything, avoiding making you feel worse.
This rest isn’t just physical—it’s soul-deep. It’s the peace you find when you stop trying to prove yourself all the time. This applies at work, in relationships, and even to yourself. For me, it’s about trusting that I’m enough. It’s not because I’ve checked all the boxes. It’s because I’m loved and cared for by someone greater than me.
One of the most surprising parts is how “light” this life feels when I lean into His way. It’s not about avoiding difficulties—life will always have challenges. But it’s about not facing them alone. When I choose to trust instead of worry, I find that my emotional and spiritual energy starts to refill. By resting instead of overworking, my energy is restored.
So what do I do when life starts feeling like too much? I pause. I take a moment to talk to God, to tell Him what’s weighing me down. I remind myself of His love and lean on His promises. Sometimes, I also find peace in small, simple actions. I read a passage that inspires me. I spend time in quiet reflection. I even just step outside to reconnect with what truly matters.
Rest, for me, isn’t about escaping life—it’s about finding strength in the middle of it. Every time I accept Jesus’s invitation to rest, I’m reminded that I don’t have to carry every burden alone. That’s where I find peace. That’s where I find rest for my soul.
Blessings,
Ministers A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 