The Relationship pt 1

How do we live the life that God has called us to? This question is central to our faith journey. Being a Christian is not just about attending church once a week; it's about a deep, transformative relationship with God. This week, we delve into the concept of the ‘yoke’ that Jesus speaks about and how it symbolizes our relationship with Him. This is simply a 'study', to stir our hunger to know more about this great relationship we've been saved into through Christ. It won't give you all the answers, but it should help you to start asking the important questions. 

- What is the Yoke of Christ?

Understanding the Yoke
In biblical times, a yoke was a wooden frame placed on the necks of oxen to enable them to pull a load together. Jesus uses this imagery to invite us to take His yoke upon ourselves, promising that His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matthew 11:29-30). This signifies that we are not meant to carry the burdens of life alone but to walk in tandem with Christ.

The Power of Partnership
When oxen are yoked together, they can accomplish much more than they could individually. Similarly, when we are yoked with Christ, we are empowered by His strength and guided by His wisdom. This partnership ensures that we are not wandering aimlessly but are on a path directed by God.

- The Nature of Our Relationship with God

Christianity is Relational, Not Superficial
Our faith is not a checklist of do's and don'ts; it is a relationship with God. Coming to Christ means ceasing to do life on our own and beginning to walk with Him. This relationship is about knowing God intimately, not just knowing about Him.

Knowing God vs. Knowing About God
Salvation is about knowing God personally. While learning and studying theology are important, they are means to deepen our relationship with Him. If we only know about God, we might live in fear or misunderstanding. But knowing Him changes everything about how we live each day.

- The Privilege of Knowing God

Fellowship with God
Every religion seeks to understand God, but Christianity offers a unique relationship with the Creator. Worship and prayer are not just rituals; they are opportunities to encounter the living God. This fellowship transforms us and aligns our lives with His will.

God Calls Us Friends
Jesus calls us friends, not servants (John 15:15). This friendship means we can talk to Him, walk with Him, and share our lives with Him. It also means He reveals His plans and purposes to us, guiding us in our journey.

-Identity in Christ

Who Am I?
Many of us struggle with questions of identity and purpose. Psalm 139 beautifully illustrates that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by God. He knows us intimately and has a purpose for each of us.

Embracing Our Unique Design
God has crafted each of us with unique attributes and purposes. Even the things we might dislike about ourselves are part of His divine design. Understanding this helps us to see our lives from a kingdom perspective and to embrace our God-given identity.


How can I live ‘yoked’ with Christ?
This week, let's challenge ourselves to take off the yoke we've put on ourselves and embrace the yoke of Christ. This means relying on His strength, walking in His grace, and allowing Him to guide our path.

Questions for Reflection

1. Am I trying to live my Christian life on my own strength?
2. How can I deepen my relationship with God this week?
3. What unique attributes has God given me, and how can I use them for His glory?
4. Am I living out my identity in Christ, or am I conforming to the world's expectations?

By reflecting on these questions and applying the principles of being yoked with Christ, we can experience the fullness of the life God has called us to live. Let's walk this journey together, empowered by His strength and guided by His love.