Overflowing Grace: Devo 6

Day 6: Rest for the Soul

Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30 NLT "Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.’"

Observation and Reflection:
The word “rest” in Greek (anapauō) means to refresh or rejuvenate. Jesus invites those burdened by life’s struggles to exchange their heaviness for His light yoke. In ancient farming, a yoke was used to pair oxen together, distributing the load evenly. Jesus doesn’t remove our responsibilities but partners with us, making our burdens lighter through His strength. Are you trying to carry your burdens alone? Reflect on areas of your life where you need to accept Jesus’ invitation to rest.

Imagine a seesaw where one side is heavily weighted. Jesus steps in, balancing the weight, allowing you to find relief.

Mother Teresa often spoke of how her work was not burdensome because she leaned on Jesus to carry her load. She described prayer as the secret to her peace.

Application and Action: Identify one burden you’ve been carrying alone. Write it down and symbolically place it at the foot of a cross or altar. Reflect on this quote by St. Augustine: "Thou hast formed us for Thyself, and our hearts are restless till they find rest in Thee."

Prayer: Jesus, I come to You weary and burdened. I surrender my cares and accept Your rest. Teach me to trust in Your humility and gentleness, and to walk in the peace You provide. Amen.

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Overflowing Grace - A 21-day prayer and fasting devotional guide to live in God's abundance

Week 1: Pursuing the Shepherd (Abundant Life Begins with Jesus)
Key Focus: Understanding Jesus as our source of life, our guide, and our provider.

Daily Topics: 

Week 2: Cultivating the Heart (Living in God’s Abundance)
Key Focus: Developing a heart that aligns with God’s abundance and character.

Daily Topics: 

Week 3: Advancing His Kingdom (Sharing the Abundant Life)
Key Focus: Living out and sharing the abundant life with others.

Daily Topics: 

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