I hear that the pharmaceutical industry is doing extremely well these days. Helping it along are at least 15 million Americans who suffer from anxiety and weariness to the point of needing medicine. We are a worn-out people. Jesus tells us to not let our hearts be troubled (John 14:1) and that He is “gentle and humble in heart.” These words ought to bring us rest for our spirits. But do they?


In Jesus’ day Jewish legalism and the oppression of the Roman rule left people with great burdens of anxiety. The same sorts of concerns weigh on us today: governmental pressure, financial stress, heart-breaking illness, relational problems, etc. At this crossroads we have a choice: go our own way and battle it out, or accept the gentle invitation of Jesus to rest in Him.


So Jesus really is approachable! And in coming to Him, we have the promise of rest for our souls. Jesus promises us meaning, hope, assurance, peace and even joy in the times of inevitable trouble. He takes us as we are and bathes us in His love.