When the world gets a little bit too crazy we may want it to stop spinning so we can just get off. But that as we all know is not possible.
Today you may be facing hardship, sickness, lack, relationship problems, job difficulties, be unsure what to do, or just feel overwhelmed and saddened by the current state of the world. We all can feel like it’s too hard at times, and that it would perhaps easier to stay in bed and pull the covers over our heads.
But Jesus knew that we would face days and times like that, and in response He said, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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.” (Matthew 11:28-29)
Jesus knows that we will face trials, and that things will at times unsettle us, but He also promises that with Him we will be okay. He asks us to remain strong, to keep standing, and to continually come to Him when we are feeling overwhelmed and weary so that He can lift those burdens off our backs. He wants to teach us how to keep walking with Him regardless of our circumstances and the current state of the world, so that we can discover how to walk through and overcome every hurdle with Him.
There is a guy in the bible that understood how to come to Jesus, and also how to lean on Him. His name is John and he is referred to as the one whom Jesus loved because he is depicted as the one leaning against Jesus’ chest at the last supper. (John 13:23-25;20:2; 21:7; 21:20).
John knew how to lean on Jesus, and that close relationship no doubt helped him handle life’s challenges. He went on to write the gospel of John, 1, 2, and 3 John and the book of Revelation.
After the crucifixion, he became a “pillar” in the Jerusalem church (Galatians 2:9) ministered with Peter (Acts 3:1; 4:13; 8:14), and was exiled to the island of Patmos by the Romans, where he received from God the visions that are recorded in the book of Revelation.
Historical documents also record that previous to John’s exile to Patmos that the pro counsel of Ephesus tried to execute John by placing him in a vessel of boiling oil, from which he emerged unharmed.
John learnt how to enter God’s rest, and knew how to totally trust and rely upon His goodness and love. He chose to lean on Jesus and not his own strength for everything, even his own life.
Today, whatever you may be facing and regardless of the current events happening all around us, let’s take a “leaf out of John’s book” and allow ourselves to lean on Jesus for all we need. To lean back on Him for our comfort, our provision, our daily needs, our safety and our future. He promises He will be with us both in the fire and the flood, and that with Him we need not fear.
He says, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched. Nor will the flame burn you.”For I am the LORD your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Saviour ” (Isaiah 43:2)
“Have no fear, for I am with you; do not be looking about in trouble, for I am your God; I will give you strength, yes, I will be your helper; yes, my true right hand will be your support.” (Isaiah 41:10)
Prayer: Jesus please help me to lean back on you for all the support, confidence and help I need. I know you have my life in your hands, and that nothing can separate me from your love. Help me to trust you, and to hear your voice leading me in everything today. In Jesus name Amen.
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