Finding strength when life feels heavy is something we all need at times. The struggles we experience shape how we see the world and how we see ourselves. But we were never meant to carry those burdens alone.
Finding Strength Through Jesus’ Rest
Jesus spoke to the weary, the overwhelmed, and the brokenhearted, saying:
“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. … For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
-Matthew 11:28-30 NLT
A yoke is a wooden beam used to pair oxen together to share a heavy load. In Jewish tradition, the “yoke of the law” symbolized devotion to God’s law. But Jesus reframed the image, inviting His followers to take *His* yoke, promising that walking with Him would bring true rest and help in finding strength.
Sharing Burdens and Gaining Strength
When Jesus invites us to be yoked to Him, He offers more than relief, He offers divine strength. He bears the weight with us. And through this bond, we gain endurance, clarity, and renewed purpose.
The Apostle Paul reinforces this in Galatians:
“Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.”
-Galatians 6:2 NLT
How to Find Strength in Christ
The law of Christ, loving God and loving others can only be fulfilled by staying connected to Jesus (Matthew 22:37-40). When we’re bound to Him, He gives us strength to:
- Endure challenging seasons
- Make wise choices when tempted
- Show love to others when it’s hard
- Support fellow believers in their struggles
Finding Strength to Support Others
Just as Jesus carried our sorrows, He calls us to help carry each other’s burdens. When we do, we reflect His love and help guide people toward Him.
Take a few moments now. Talk to God about what’s weighing you down. Ask Him to fill you with His strength—and to show you someone in your life who needs encouragement today.
~This devotional is featured on the YouVersion Bible App.
Frequently Asked Questions
Being yoked with Jesus means walking in partnership with Him. Just like a yoke binds two oxen to share a load, Jesus invites us to share our burdens with Him so we don’t carry them alone.
You can find strength by turning to Jesus in prayer, trusting His promises, and leaning on fellow believers for support. Scripture encourages us to share each other’s burdens and walk together in faith.
The law of Christ refers to the command to love God and love others. When we help carry each other’s burdens, we are fulfilling this law by showing Christ-like love in action.
Ask God in prayer to reveal someone who may be struggling or in need of encouragement. Often, He places people in your path who need a listening ear, a kind word, or practical help.
