By: Guest Blogger, Shairon Taylor

When I think of the word “yoke,” I think about bondage (physical, mental, emotional). However, the word “yoke” is also used in the tense of “joining” two or more parties for a particular purpose, season, etc. In the latter sense, Encarta defines “yoke” as “bond keeping people close.”

In Matthew 11:29, Jesus said, Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart:  and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

This is a yoke worth taking! Being yoked with Christ is the best relationship, or yoke of marriage that one can embrace. Just like in any relationship, there will be seasons of disappointment and turbulent trials. But if you stick it out prayerfully, totally relying on God’s Word, the reward will be great! Your latter will be greater than the former! The Hebrew boys in Daniel 3 faced a great trial being yoked to the God of Israel. Their dedication meant their lives. But the God we serve showed up and showed out on their behalf. Their lives were spared and God got the glory!

One of the greatest things about being yoked to Christ is that this is not a slavery type of yoke. A slave doesn’t know what the master does, but we are His friends! (John 15:15)

We will be faced with things that will challenge our faith and maybe make us want to snatch that yoke off. But if we stick with the Lord, He’ll continually stick close to you, sticking closer than any brother!  (Proverbs 18:24)