Matthew 11:30 - "…My Yoke is Easy and My Burden is Light"
The Oxford English Dictionary says that the phrase "tug of war" originally meant "the decisive contest; the real struggle or tussle; a severe contest for supremacy". Only in the 19th century was it used for what we know today as a contest between two teams tugging on opposite sides of a rope, determined to pull the opposing team across a designated line.
Did you know that this contest dates back to the 8th century BC? That there are formal rules for this game, including the regulation size of the rope, weight requirements and not being able to lower your elbow below your knee? That there are actual tactics and technical strategies for winning? Tug of War even appeared in the Olympic Games from 1900 to 1920. Get this, the Tug of War International Federation (TWIF), organizes World Championships for nation teams biannually, for both indoor and outdoor contests, and a similar competition for club teams. Interesting, eh?
Many of us live our lives just like a game of tug of war, struggling to hold onto something, no matter how much energy and effort it takes. At one point in my life, I was fighting for my "right to be right", and I saw a mental picture of myself digging my heels in the sand trying to forcefully pull everything I wanted over a line. I became tired and worn out, and the Lord said to me, "Let go of the rope, don't worry, you won't lose". In other words, "Let Me be in control, not you". I finally let go and God began to move in my life in ways I could never accomplish on my own.
Today, if you are struggling in an area of your life, a relationship, a job situation, an important decision…let go of the rope! Let the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth lead, guide and direct you. Give up your right to be right and listen to what He is saying.
It’s your choice…go through life engaged in "the decisive contest; the real struggle or tussle; a severe contest for supremacy", OR yoked together with the One who knows all things, loves you, and has your best interest in mind. Here’s a hint…let go of the rope.