Seeking Passionate Prayer in Spiritual Warfare

We’ve become a society of runners, particularly of those running on empty. We run from work to appointments and errands. We strive to accomplish many tasks, and to check things off of our proverbial lists. Is it any wonder that we’re tired? Today, I’m meditating on what has become my life verse: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matt 11:28)

These words were spoken by Jesus just after the 70 were sent out to harvest and returned (Luke 10:1-20). Both Luke and Matthew give the account of Jesus thanking the Father for His Sovereignty. “In that hour Jesus rejoiced in the Spirit and said, ‘I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.'” (Luke 10:21-22)

Those who deem themselves too wise for the gospel, cannot understand it (Rom 1:22) and it is hidden from their sight. “Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!” (Is 5:21) To understand, we must first know that we need be shown the truth (be humble), as a child knows they must learn about things from their parents. “Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” (Mark 10:15)

The rest Jesus gives is revealing the Father to us, because He is the only way to the Father (John 14:6). When He reveals Himself and we respond by repenting of our sin and giving Him the position of Lord in our life, He promises to carry our burdens. “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.” (Matt 11:29-30) We can only receive His rest, when we surrender our lives, our desires, our will–our all–to Him.

Lord, today I surrender all that I am, all that I have to You. Lord, I ask that when You see me grabbing for the reigns, please remind me that they are Yours and not mine. Thank You for Your yoke that You carry with me. Thank You for refreshing and watering my spirit with Your living water.