I remember as a kid, my brother and I went rafting down a river by our house. We played this game where we would take turns going down this particular stretch of rapids in a raft. I would jump in the water, grab the rope, and navigate the raft through the rapids while my brother took a ride. I would then pull the raft back up to the top of the rapids and switch places. This would go on for hours until we were both exhausted. I distinctly remember that the trip down the river was certainly more exciting. It was also much easier because I was swimming with the current. The trip back up was so much more difficult because I was literally swimming upstream while pulling the raft and my brother.

The above story describes well our typical relationship with God. Unfortunately, we spend much of our time pushing back against His will. We want to do it our way and on our timeframe. This is like swimming upstream. It is very difficult and emotionally exhausting. When we follow God’s will, it doesn’t mean it is going to be easy. Like the rapids I had to navigate while pulling my brother, doing God’s will is often scary and uncertain. Yet, instead of fighting against the current of His will, we are carried along with it. God actually participates with us. This makes doing His will easier. Remember this as you hit various struggles in your life. If you find yourself overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted, chances are you are working against God’s will. Take your struggle into prayer and ask God to reveal His will. He is sure to guide you downstream to more peaceful waters.

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your selves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.” – Matthew 11:28-30

Originally posted 2014-05-26 06:00:28.