All You Want for ChristmasSample

O Come, All Ye Faithful

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” - Matthew 11:28-30

Think
My older brother and I had a great childhood growing up on a small farmette that provided space for lots of adventures. However, our longing for adventure often led us to push beyond the healthy boundaries our parents had established. Whenever possible, we tried to ensure they didn’t find out about our more dangerous escapades for fear of receiving correction. One incident involving a vehicle and a broken overhead garage door dangling from its cables was impossible to hide.

As a scared 6 or 7-year-old, I thought we should run for the woods to hide. Thankfully, my brother was more mature and took ownership. Since we were home alone, he insisted we go to our grandma’s house next door to tell her what had happened. In a moment, she discerned that we needed nurture and a safe place far more than we needed correction. In fact, she was our biggest advocate and pleaded our case that the traumatic experience was already enough punishment.

Apply
As I read through the Bible, I see God having the same heart. He desires that we draw near to Him to find refuge from life’s challenges. A dear friend once told me that “life is hard, and God is good” and “not to confuse the two.” There is a lot in that statement, for if we believe He is good, then His boundaries are for our safety, His correction for our benefit, and He becomes a place of refuge.

With this understanding, we are far more likely to draw near to Him in the midst of our biggest challenges and mistakes. As I ponder His desire to help us overcome, the song’s opening line begins to burst from my heart. “O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant,” and my heart's response truly is, “O come, let us adore Him” for what He has already done.

Pray
Lord, I am weary from trying to overcome challenges with my own strength. I ask you, Holy Spirit, to help me, and I surrender to your leadership. You have helped me so many times in the past, and I trust that it is going to be okay. Thank you for your grace, mercy, and love! Amen.

Author - Dave Smucker serves as the Executive Director for Branch Network. He loves to travel and spend time in nature, which is where he connects most deeply with his heavenly Father.