One of the constant discussions between Jesus and the religious leaders was about the traditions that are usually man made and become a burden for those trying to walk with God (Matthew 23:4). “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”” (Matthew 11:28–30, NLT)
How many people want to change? Why do you think you need to change? What if you cannot change yourself? What if only God can change you? What if God does not think you need to change? What if the burden we carry about something we want to change in ourselves is not necessarily the way that God thinks?
We cannot save ourselves and we cannot change the way that God created us. First, we need to accept ourselves and see ourselves the way that He sees us. God is not waiting for you to change to start loving you and to accept you. Even before we were born, He already knew us and loved us. Instead of carrying the heavy burden of trying to change yourself through human efforts, ask the Father to speak to you about the way that He sees you and why He loves you the way you are.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8–10, NASB95)
Matthew 23:1–12
Zephaniah 3:14–17
Psalm 139:12–17
Ephesians 1:3–6
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