Stephenson Family Ties

Dear Jesus...how foolish of me to have

called for human help when you are here.

from: The Hiding Place

by: Corrie ten Boom

Everyone we know is heavy laden.
I am, My Builder is, the world is, my kids, and other family members and friends. No one escapes. We all are dealing with matters that feel HEAVY and burdensome and often too much to bear.
And we all search for comfort and solace and answers.
Over and over again Im told that I can find answers and comfort in the scriptures.  That I must search them and ponder over them and feast on them...and pray for guidance.
So here begins my Sunday ramblings...
Here's what Im learning this week.
I know that Im not in this struggle alone. (see above list.)
I know that my Heavenly Father love me...and you.
I know if I but ask..my Savior will lend me a hand and He'll lend you a hand too.
Again...its the knocking thing.
But...sometimes we need more than just a hand.
And that is when the image of the yoke came to mind...and the scripture in Matt 11: 29 became vivid.


Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.





Thats what I need!!
I need the God of the world to be at my shoulder, tugging, pulling, groaning right along with me, and you, as we make our way through our troubles, our adversities and trials.
So...how can I encourage Him to want to help me you ask?
Well, the scripture says..."to learn of Him."
How I learn of Him is my own business, and your own business. There are numerous  ways to begin a relationship. But as with every relationship, it requires work, effort and a desire, a yearning.
What is our "reward" for our efforts to come unto Christ??
The scripture says, we will find rest.  Rest from our burdens, trails and adversities. A rest from the overwhelming and heavy feelings.
An early prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints once said:

"To my mind, (rest) means entering into the knowledge and love of God, having faith in his purpose and in His plan, to such an extent that  we know we are right, and that we are not hunting for something else, we are not disturbed by every wind of doctrine, or the cunning and craftiness of men who lie in wait to deceive...The man (or woman) who has reached that degree of faith in God that all doubt and fear have been cast from him, he has entered into "God's rest."

Finding this type of 'rest'  and feeling rested, will return our strength, and allow us to press forward with more heart and energy to carry our burdens.  Knowing we are yoked with our Savior, we can endure to the end!!
Remember- He promised to share a yoke with me and with you!!
Whew...what  a relief!!!


*artist-betsyboyleharperBetsy Boyle Harper