Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Mt 11:28

I pray that you had a wonderful worship and a great day of fellowship as you gathered with your local church on the Lord’s Day. It is always best to start a new chapter in life in the presence of the Lord. I pray that you walk with Him throughout the year. Where do you go or where do you turn whenever you face a difficult question, struggle with a hard issue, or walk into a difficult circumstance? Many times, a first response may be to call or text a friend, seek out a parent, or maybe go to a trusted advisor. While these actions may seem like viable options, Jesus tells us “Come unto Me.” In the scripture passage we hear the words of Jesus encourage us to come to Him before going to anyone else. Even when you are working your hardest, and have the sincerest intentions, Jesus says, “Come unto Me” as the first option. Before you seek guidance and counsel from anyone, turn aside to the word of God and prayerfully seek His guidance and direction from Him. Jesus knows your life and has a plan for whatever you will face. He invites us all to come to Him and as a first action, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Mt 6:33). He cares for us and “is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think” (Eph 3:20) through His power, His resources, His riches in glory, and His wisdom above all things. He gives His light in the darkest of times. He gives strength and courage to face our greatest challenges, conquer our greatest fears, and defeat our greatest foes. Hear Him say, “Come unto Me…I will give you rest.” Dear friend, no one else can give you the answers, comfort, or guidance that Jesus can. The word of God not only provides the perfect counsel, but it pours Spirit and life into your spirit and life (Jn 6:63). Yet we find ourselves in places where we seek answers, solutions, comfort, and guidance from others, and allow matters to become so complicated that we become confused, discouraged, or in despair, unsure about where to go or what to do, it is then that we cry out to God for help and expect a miracle. My friend, go to Jesus first, prayerfully seek Him on your knees that you “may obtain mercy and grace to help in time of need” (Heb 4:16) and He “will give you rest” for your soul. Hear Jesus say, “Come unto Me” and He will walk faithfully with you all the way. Father thank You for love and the counsel of Your word. Help me to diligently seek You first to know “Your word is a lamp to my feet and light to my path” (Ps 119:105) and full of spirit and life. In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.