Take a load off your mind

Jesus said, “I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly” (vv. 28-30 MSG). Note the words, “I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you.” It’s good to know we don’t have to worry about things, figure everything out, or carry the burdens in our lives. It can actually be quite refreshing to realize that we don’t need to know everything about everything! We need to get comfortable saying, “I don’t know the answer to this predicament, and I’m not going to worry about it because God’s in control, and I trust Him. I’m going to relax in Him and live freely and lightly!” When we’re overburdened with the cares of life—struggling, labouring, and worrying—we need a mental and emotional break. Our minds need to rest from thinking about resolving problems, and our emotions need to rest from being upset. Worry robs us of rest and its benefits. So the next time you find yourself worried and anxious, remember, you can “live freely and lightly.” All you have to do is rest in the assurance of God’s love, provision, and guidance. If someone asks you what you’re going to do about your problem, tell them you’re not thinking about it right now. If they ask you why, tell them you’ve turned it over to God and you’re trusting Him to work it out for you.