Not a Burden, by Edward

     One of the things that I have devoted a good bit of thought to over the past couple of years is that the Lord is not asking of me more than I am able to do.  In other words, He's not asking too much.  In 1 John 5:3 it says, "For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome."  

As I have thought about this, this question comes up- what has He commanded that is so unreasonable that I should shirk it or explain it away so as not to obey?  When He speaks of not lusting after a woman, turning the other cheek, loving your neighbor, dressing modestly, putting off coarse language, putting off lying and stealing, forgiving one another, sharing the gospel with a stranger or whatever else there may be, is He being unreasonable?  Is He putting something on me that is a burden?  Is He asking too much?  

On the contrary, He is seeking my good. He is seeking to create in me a pure heart, to be loving, to learn courage.  He is seeking my freedom because when I do the things that I should not, that is when I feel burdened.  It is sin that is burdensome, not the commandment.  I have never felt burdened after speaking to a stranger, or forgiving my brother a wrong, or confessing my own sins; I feel free.  He came to set the captives free and to destroy the works of the devil in our lives (1 John 3:8).  What a good God we have!  Consider Psalm 19:7-11 and ask yourself, "Are His commandments a burden?" 

The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul;
         The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.

The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;
         The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;
         The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether.

They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold;
         Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.

Moreover, by them Your servant is warned;
         In keeping them there is great reward.

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