We are experiencing inflation led by the high oil prices (price of oil decreased recently though) and many of us are feeling the pressure from the rising cost of living. As such, we are forced to tighten our belts somewhat and be more careful about how we spend each dollar. Add to this the pressures of work, family, health and perhaps relationships, we must be feeling greatly burdened. But during such trying times, our Lord says to us “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).  Let us revisit this precious promise of receiving true rest in the Lord. 

Everyone can receive rest

Jesus says “all ye that labour and are heavy laden.” “All” refers to everyone, not just the rich, neither just the poor. Our Lord knows everyone faces their own sets of problems and burdens. In this fast paced world driven by technology, we face complex situations and ever increasing pressures to perform. Not only are we fatigued, we also begin to go further away from God. The psalmist says “For mine iniquities are gone over mine head: as an heavy burden they are too heavy for me” (Psalm 38:4). We are indeed people who labour and are heavy laden. Thank God for He knows we need rest, and whosoever believeth in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ who shed His precious blood for us on the Cross, shall receive salvation, peace, joy and true rest in Him. 

How can we receive rest?

Jesus says “Come unto me… and I will give you rest.” In other words, we have to take action. Just like the loving arms of our father and mother welcoming us to them, we are to come to our Lord Jesus Christ. “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). Come to the Lord! We are to receive rest when we come to Him. 

In church, we are one big family. We must love one another and share each other’s joy and burden. Pray for the needs of your brethren. Encourage one another. 

Dear friends, brothers and sisters, we have rest in the Lord if we give Him our burden. Let us enjoy this true peace, joy and rest that God has promised us.

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