We all have bags, and we all have baggage. In our homes we have trash bags, lawn bags, zip lock bags, grocery bags, cooler bags, sleeping bags, duffle bags, and on and on it goes. Where would we be without bags? However, figuratively speaking, the baggage we carry inside is far weightier and more burdensome than any of the bags we physically carry.

As children we are essentially bag-free, no burden, unjaded by life, full of hope and optimism. But along the way someone hurts us, disappoints us, betrays us and we begin to collect personal baggage. Some baggage may remind you that you’re not good enough, some is a load of guilt or fear. It may be an addiction, anger, unforgiveness, or the weight of performance pressure. Some carry spiritual baggage: the weight of religion and religious rules has become a heavy burden to bear.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened.” Only by acknowledging your baggage and bringing it to Jesus can God do what only God can do. Next Jesus says, “Take my yoke upon you.” When you become yoked to Jesus and give him control you become a team. Jesus and you carrying the load together, but He is stronger, and He will carry your burdens if you walk in pace with him. This is like in olden times when two animals were yoked together to pull a load. Two are better than one, and with Jesus in control, you have strength for any and everything. Jesus also says, “learn from me.” When you’re yoked with Him, he sets the pace, guides you, teaches you His ways. You grow in spiritual maturity and in faith and trust in Him. The great reward in all this is “rest for your soul.”

Verses: (Mt 11:28-30 NIV) “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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Ph 4:13) I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me, I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency.

Scriptures: Job 7:11; Matthew 11:28-30; Philippians 4:13

Questions: What baggage are you carrying today? What causes you the greatest anxiety? What is your heaviest burden? How can Jesus provide rest when the baggage doesn’t change? How do you define “rest for your soul”?

Prayer: Close to Thee lyrics by Fannie Crosby: Thou my everlasting portion, more than friend or life to me. All along my pilgrim journey, Savior let me walk with Thee. Close to Thee, close to Thee, close to Thee, close to Thee. All along my pilgrim journey Savior let me walk with Thee. In Jesus’ Name I pray, amen.