Listen to this devotion
Blisters
A devotion for Labor Day
In the Word
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28).
Of the Word
Labor Day was established as a national holiday in the United States on June 28, 1894, by President Grover Cleveland, with the intention of recognizing the contributions of American workers.
We think of laborers such as construction workers, farmers, sanitation workers, and others whose work results in blisters on their hands. They work long hours in all kinds of weather conditions. Their work does not seem glamorous, but it is so necessary.
While it is appropriate to acknowledge these workers as necessary parts of our communities, this is not the kind of labor Jesus is talking about in Matthew 11:28. The rest mentioned here is not an afternoon nap. This kind of rest is the peace of God we receive through faith. We are able to put aside our worries and doubts about daily needs because we know our sins are forgiven through Jesus’ death and His triumphant resurrection. We have been promised that He will be with us when it seems like our lives keep giving us burdensome “blisters.”
While afternoon naps and a day off work can be very restful, resting in the confidence of our forgiven sins is the best rest!
Walking with my Lord
Heavenly Father, thank You for those whose work is difficult or dangerous. Help us treat them with thankful respect. Thank You also for the reminders in Your plan for our salvation that give us grace, mercy, and peace, which is beyond our understanding. Amen.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible unless otherwise noted. (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version), Copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Mustard Seed: Labor Day — Blisters by Martha Hartwig, Robins, Iowa
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