"Rest"

When my heart has gotten heavy,

And my eyes are filled with tears,

And things get overwhelming,

Because of miles and years.

I know it’s not the whiskey,

Or the horses or the land,

That will make it better,

To get back up and stand.

So tell me what’s the answer,

‘Cause you’re discouraged, too,

And I can hear you asking,

What else can I do?

I am going to say it,

And I hope to make it clear,

I am not preaching,

Or playing off your fear.

Just telling you the lesson,

That I’ve learned the hardest way,

And that is turn to Jesus,

And hear what He will say.

Come to Me, He tells us,

To find in Him relief,

He says He will rest us,

And that’s my strong belief.

Rode hard by everybody,

And finally turned out wet,

If it becomes a habit,

We need all we can get.

Take His yoke upon us,

Learn His humble heart,

Easy yoke and lightest burden,

And if we do our part,

What has made us sadder,

And drained away our life,

Will give way to gladness,

And take away the strife,

Of trying to feel better,

But doubting if we can,

Let me tell you, brother,

You will with Jesus’ plan.

“Come to Me… and I will give you rest…” (Mt. 11:28, NLT)

I’m not against prescriptions for depression. I’m for counseling professionals who can help us sort things out. That said, the direct, personal relief that comes from Jesus is still the answer. He promises relief and rest from every heavy burden. He really does! And if we will let Him, it works every time, no exceptions. Come and lay it down, He says. Come and take my yoke and burden, because compared to the ones you carry, they are easy and light. We will never get a better offer from anyone or anything. I’ve been down. I’ve been suicidal. I’ve almost given up on everything that matters. But for Jesus, no doubt, I would no longer be here. But, in my worst, darkest valley He was there to lead me out. He will do that for anyone and everyone.

Lord, help us exchange our deepest, heaviest burden for Your light burden, in Jesus’ name.

Art by R.S. Riddick, rsriddick.com. Used by permission. Thanks, Mr. RIddick, and God bless you.