EGW WritingsMatthew 11
Ellen G. White · Page 3 of 8
Read Matthew 11 in the BibleMatthew 11:28-30
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 83, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 83, 1891, par. 5
Now, have we that inward faith? It rests with us. There are two classes to the end of time; a party to [be] separated on the left hand, He calls goats; and there is a party to be on the right hand, He calls sheep. Every soul of man may be saved if they believe in Christ as their personal Saviour. All will not be saved. Not because He does not want them to be saved, for He is drawing every soul, whatever may be their position, whatever may be their education, their nationality, or their training, he is drawing every soul to himself. Why? Because in Him is life and light and truth, and all of these are essential to us for our happiness daily in this present life, and all these things are going to help us bear the burdens and trials and perplexities of life with greater ease; and Christ says in His invitation, Come unto Me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [Matthew 11:28.]7LtMs, Ms 83, 1891, par. 7
How is it so natural for us to pour out all our soul troubles and perplexities upon finite beings as ourselves? I leave you to answer the question, why do we do this? [It might be excused] if we had not the promise, “Ask and receive” and, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [John 16:24; Matthew 11:28-30.] It is not “My yoke” that makes your work so hard, that makes your journey so difficult.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 45, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 45, 1893, par. 23
Should some move hastily and fly out of Battle Creek, and be brought into discouragement, they will not reflect upon themselves for moving unadvisedly, but upon others who, they will charge, brought a pressure to bear upon them. All the discomfiture and defeat is charged back upon those who should not be reflected upon, for the Lord has given to them reason; He has given His Holy Word full of counsel and cautions and warnings and entreaties, and, more, He has invited them, “Come unto me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.]8LtMs, Lt 45, 1893, par. 25
How shall this be done? “Take my yoke upon you,” saith Jesus Christ, who hath bought you with His own precious blood, whose servants and property you are, “and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls, for my yoke is easy and my burden light.” [Verses 29, 30.] If every one will come to Jesus in a teachable spirit, with contrition of heart, then they are in a condition of mind to be instructed and to learn of Jesus and obey His orders.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 4, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 4, 1893, par. 19
Here is where many are led into by-and-forbidden paths. The human is so mixed with the divine declarations that fables are taught as truth. Turn to God and to your Bibles, and learn the true standard of Christian character. “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39. Hear the words of the Great Teacher, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden.” Matthew 11:28. “Unto me”; bring everything to Jesus, make Him your dependence, make Him your trust.8LtMs, Lt 4, 1893, par. 20
He says, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. Go to Jesus as He has invited you. There is but one Mediator, one Intercessor, who can help wisely, and not make one indiscreet move. I point you to the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world. In Him is all sufficiency. Tell Him your failings, and receive instruction from His words. This is eating His flesh and drinking His blood, becoming partakers of the divine nature. Oh, let every one who nameth the name of Christ depart from all iniquity!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 88, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 88, 1893, par. 11
“Come,” is the invitation from our Saviour, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” [Matthew 11:28], when sick physically, sick mentally, because you have not placed yourself in the school of Christ to learn the precious lessons of the Great Teacher. Many go unhappy and distressed all through their lives, crippling their way along, making crooked paths, carrying their heavy burdens in fretful murmuring and complaining of the hardness of the way, discontented and grumbling, gloomy and desponding and generally miserable, poor and blind, wretched and naked, yet with all, self-conceited.8LtMs, Ms 88, 1893, par. 12
Do you not believe the words of Jesus? He has given you a full, free invitation, “Come unto me.” Go just as you are. No, no human being is capable of relieving your griefs, your burden, your load. “Come unto me,” saith Christ, “and ye shall find rest.” Take off from your neck that manufactured yoke of perplexities and care and burden. “Take ‘my’ yoke upon you, and learn of me ... and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Verses 28-30.] Praise the Lord, O my soul, praise His holy name! We have a Burden-bearer who is fully able to take the burdens and griefs and perplexities and worries of the whole world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 17, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 17, 1894, par. 13
“That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” [Verse 7.] Why? Because we have not let go our hold of the divine power. We are partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Here is an escape for us. We are not to fall under the trial because we have the invitation, “Come unto me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.]9LtMs, Ms 17, 1894, par. 14
Do not go to any human being to pour out your trials of mind and heart, but “Come to me.” Me, the precious Saviour. “Come unto me.” Do not go anywhere else. “I understand all your life and your temptation. I have weighed them.” He that balances the mountains in His hand knows the weight of every trial brought upon every soul, and how much we can endure of that trial that is brought upon us. He says, “Come unto me, for ye shall find rest unto your souls. Take my yoke upon you.” [Verses 28, 29.] And then He will lift our burdens. We may manufacture a yoke and put it upon our neck, and it galls wonderfully. But do not manufacture a yoke. Take the yoke of Christ.9LtMs, Ms 17, 1894, par. 15
Let us contemplate the things of God which are strength, and take the yoke of Christ. “Come unto me all ye that are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you.” And then what? “Learn of me.” “Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly of heart and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Verses 28, 29.] Anyone that is meek and lowly of heart is never looking for slights. They never want to be able to reprove this one’s course of action and that one’s course of action. That is not their business. This is the place where they are blind and deaf.9LtMs, Ms 17, 1894, par. 16
“Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly of heart.” [Verse 29.] Who will take the yoke of Christ and bear it daily and hourly? Every soul that consents to bear it will—there are no “ifs” about it—find rest to their souls. You need not go groaning up the road that is cast up for the ransomed, because somebody does not appreciate you. He says lifting the burden is meekness and lowliness and there is rest there. “For my yoke is easy.” [Verse 30.] Now if you are lifting the burden, throw it down. Just lay it off and exchange it for Christ’s yoke. Then He bears one end of the yoke and you bear the other. Shall we not let Him do it? Shall we wrestle ourselves along till we get the whole weight of the yoke? God forbid. There is a rest in Jesus. There is a peace in Him that passeth understanding. We cannot explain it any more than you can explain the wind that moves the leaves of the trees.9LtMs, Ms 17, 1894, par. 18
“I am the light of the world.” [John 8:12.] Now, He says, “Learn of me.” [Matthew 11:29.] Do not go to anybody else. Do not go to any human channel. If we have been drinking of the turbid streams of the valley, it is because we have left the living springs of Lebanon. You cannot afford to do this. Your experience will be just in accordance with what you give your thirsty soul to drink. We want to drink the water of life. We want to eat the bread of salvation. And then our experience will be bright because we have eaten of the Bread of life which is the flesh and blood of the Son of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 74, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 74, 1895, par. 11
I see in Jesus matchless charms. He died for you; he died for me. He came not to abolish the law, but to make it honorable. I want to see greater and greater light, but never will it be if I am trampling on his holy commandments. No profession can make us Christians. “It doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” [Verse 2.] We can have peace in God through Jesus Christ. Take his word and study it. Here are the roses and the lilies and the pinks. Jesus came to show you what heaven will be. “Take my yoke upon you.” Why do you put yokes on your oxen? Is it not to make the load draw easier? “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28, 30.] The more we bring of heaven into our lives here, the easier will be the yoke of Christ to us. He has been tempted in all points like as we are, yet without sin. When you have found Jesus precious to your own soul, you will feel like bringing all the happiness you can into the lives of others. You will bring rich clusters of fruit in Jesus’ name.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 169, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 169, 1897, par. 10
We shall have temptations as long as Satan lives, but the Lord Jesus has promised, “all that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37. All who will may come to Him for refuge, for strength and power. “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. How little we honor God in doing this! How readily we complain and murmur, as did the children of Israel. We appeal to human beings. Letters come clear across the continent to me and to others for our prayers and our advice and our counsel.12LtMs, Ms 169, 1897, par. 11
Christ says, “Come unto me.” He is close beside you. He wants you to ask Him. Many seek to every source but the true one. Here there is a great weakness, a great dishonoring of their God. The invitation comes from Him who has united humanity with His divinity, that He might save to the uttermost all who come unto Him. “Come,” is the invitation. “Come, ... all ye that labor and are heaven laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you (the yoke of obedience to all God’s commandments and of restraint from being Satan’s channel of sin, and a wrong example before other souls to perpetuate sin), and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 85, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, par. 7
We must have an abiding Christ. Then we shall choose to accept His invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden.” Many persons who are weary and heavy laden come to me, and to different ones, but they do not go to my Saviour, who has invited them. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] How precious is this invitation!16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, par. 8
The Saviour adds, “Take my yoke upon you.” Are there any here who have felt that it is disagreeable to comply with the conditions Christ has made, to “take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart”? [Verse 29.] While you are preparing to teach in harmony with Jesus Christ, are you learning to bear His yoke? Or have you fixed your eye upon something very exalted which “I” am going to do—“I,” “I,” the most exalted person in the world? God can work through those who lie the lowest at the feet of Christ, those who are the most humble. He can mold them, fashioning them after the divine similitude.16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, par. 14
“Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] You will continue to learn all the time. When you have been converted and can say, “I have received Christ,” when your name is put on the church-book, you have not learned your whole lesson. It is then that the life with Christ, the bearing of the yoke of Christ, the learning of Christ, commences. You are to go on from step to step; and by watchfulness, by working out your own salvation with fear and trembling, you are learning how to educate others. Your very words can educate them. But do not turn away from our precious Lord to some human agency who may have just as much difficulty in understanding as you have. Come to the Master, saying, “Now I take this yoke upon me; I will learn of Thee, the divine Teacher. I must have Thy strength and grace, or I cannot bear fruit. I must have the virtue which is in the Parent-stock, or I shall fail.”16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, par. 15
But what is Christ’s promise?—“Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” That is just what you desire. You will find it by learning of Him in your experience. He says, “Take my yoke upon you, and I will give you rest.” [Verses 28, 29.] Learn of Him His meekness and lowliness, and by a living experience you will find rest.16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, par. 17
Christ continues, “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:30.] Rejoice in this. It is the very life of your being. It will bring you into close relation with those out of Christ who need your help. You are to tell them how to find Him.16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, par. 20
“Learn of me.” [Matthew 11:29.] There is to be a learning. You are to study Christ’s words. Step by step you are to follow in His footsteps. But there is something else to do. “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and”—follow Me?—No; “let him deny himself,”—and what?—“and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] How many of us are willing to take up the cross—to be partakers with Christ of His suffering and follow Him through cloud as well as sunshine? How many of us will realize indeed that true rest is found in taking up the yoke of Christ? By yoking up with Christ, we shall find rest; for He has covenanted with us to give us rest. In this rest there is a blessedness of more value than gold and silver and precious stones. It will fit you for any position in life.16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, par. 26
Christ teaches humanity never to be self-sufficient. He says, “Learn of me: I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Learn of the One who was meek and lowly in heart—the One who has promised, “Ye shall find rest unto your souls.” This glorious experience will come, and you can say, “I know Him, I know Him; I have tested Him; I have proved Him, and He has never failed me.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 83, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 83, 1902, par. 28
“Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart; wait, I say, on the Lord.” [Psalm 27:14.] “It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.” [Lamentations 3:26.] There are those who work all day and far into the night to do what it seems to them needs to be done. The Lord looks pitifully upon these weary, heavily laden burden-bearers, and says to them, “Come unto me, ... and I will give you rest. ... For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 159, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 159, 1902, par. 11
Christ is your example. He came to this world and in humanity lived the life that He desires you to live. Look to Him. Study His plans and purposes and methods. His life is our lesson book. A divine-human Saviour, He stands before us with the invitation, “Come unto me, ... and I will give you rest. ... My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 153, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 153, 1904, par. 27
“Come unto Me,” He says, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden.” [Matthew 11:28.] Do not run to that dramshop. Do not try to get a glass of liquor which robs you of your senses, so that you do not know what you are doing. You cannot afford it. It is too expensive a business. If you want to live through eternal ages, you must begin now to take hold to deny self. Heaven is worth everything. What do you gain? An eternal weight of glory, and you cannot afford to run any risk in this matter.19LtMs, Ms 153, 1904, par. 30
What shall we do, says one, when the Sunday law is passed? Why, said I, devote that day to God. Take your students and go right into the bush, as they call it, go right into the woods, and from house to house carry your Bible, and there teach them the way of life. Kneel down and pray. Ask them to come to Jesus. Teach them the way. Then say to them, just as Christ has said, “Come unto Me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] “Now,” said I, “you teach them every Sunday; teach them on the Sabbath, of course, but every Sunday donate to God, and teach them how they can find the way to heaven.”19LtMs, Ms 153, 1904, par. 31
What will a man give in exchange for his soul? And what will it profit a man if he gains the world and loses his own soul? There are thousands doing it every day. Oh, I wish that there were a thousand teachers where there is one right here in this city. God wants workmen. He calls for them. He will accept those who come. “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you,” He invites you, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Now there is something that He gives them that they are to experience in doing just as He says. “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Verses 28-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 321, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 321, 1905, par. 15
Edson, you need to do a work with your own individual self. Refrain from every word of blame or of complaint against your brethren. Take yourself to task, and in humility seek to gain that strength that comes by beholding Christ. Hear His gracious invitation: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] Why should you wait? Why not come to Him now?20LtMs, Lt 321, 1905, par. 16
“Take My yoke upon you,” He continues, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Verses 29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 16, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 16, 1886, par. 16
I love Jesus. I see in Him matchless charms. I hold up before you the Man of Calvary. I want you to become acquainted with Him; and if you bring Him into your daily life, let me tell you, you will lose sight of the little perplexities here. Jesus says, “Come unto Me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] There is rest in Jesus. And if you see poor souls fretting and worrying, it is because they have not the yoke of Jesus on. Perhaps in that extra ruffle and that extra trimming they have neglected to let Jesus in. Says He, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” [Revelation 3:20.]4LtMs, Ms 16, 1886, par. 17
You can have a little heaven here below if you will only get your eye fixed upon God—not looking at Christ half the time and at the world the other half. When you live for God, He will put His everlasting arm beneath you, and then He says, “My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:30.] Do you believe it? I can testify this is so. By my past experience I can testify that I would not have one trial less, one sorrow less, for Paul says, “These light afflictions which are but for a moment, work for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but the things which are unseen.” [2 Corinthians 4:17, 18.] We want to look at the things of eternal interest, that we may think seriously in regard to what use we have made of our reasoning powers, whether we have tried to strengthen them with idle things that we cannot take with us when we shall be caught up to meet Christ in the air.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 13, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 13, 1888, par. 68
God forbid that you should perish. When He willeth that none of us should perish, but that all should have everlasting life, will you not have it? What more could Christ do for you that He has not done? He has given His life and come here, and with His divinity clothed with humanity He was in the world all seared and marred with the curse of sin, and here He lived our example of humility Himself, and He says, “Come unto me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] He did not say to take your troubles and your perplexities and your obstacles to some one man’s brain and let him bear the burden for you. That is why the ministers are weak as babes, because they do not feel that the same source of strength that men in authority can go to, they can go to. They do not feel that they can take right hold of the promises of God and bring His power right into their lives, and feel that God is working by them and through them and for them.5LtMs, Ms 13, 1888, par. 70
Many take their cares to human hearts and lay their burden on human shoulders when Christ has said to come to Him: Come unto Me all ye that are heaven laden, and perhaps I will give you rest?—No such thing. Will. There is no “perhaps” or “if” in it. “Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” What next? “For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Verses 28-30.] Do not we believe it? I do, and I believe that we can go singing all the way to Mount Zion. We can carry our end of the yoke, while Christ carries the other end—and that the heaviest end, too.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 33, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 33, 1889, par. 8
Christ is our Substitute as One who will fight our battles for us. The human arm of Christ encircles the fallen race and with His divinity He grasps the throne of the Infinite. He says, “Come unto Me for My yoke is easy.” [Matthew 11:28, 30.] We are to find the rest in bearing the yoke of Christ. Are we wearing the yoke of Christ or have we manufactured a yoke of our own? If you are groaning under your burdens you have not Christ’s yoke upon you, for He says, “My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Verse 30.] But if you wear a yoke of self-righteousness you will find it very heavy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 29, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 29, 1907, par. 9
Christ is our only hope. We may look to Him, for He is our Saviour. We may take Him at His word and make Him our dependence. He knows just the help we need, and we can safely put our trust in Him. If we depend on human wisdom to guide us, we shall find ourselves on the losing side. But we may come direct to the Lord Jesus; for He has said, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] It is our privilege to be taught of Him who said, “Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood, ye have no life in you.” [John 6:53.]22LtMs, Ms 29, 1907, par. 32
“All the works of men are under the Lord’s jurisdiction. It will be altogether safe to consider that there is knowledge with the Most High. Those who trust in God and His wisdom, and not in their own, are walking in safe paths. They will never feel that they are authorized to muzzle even the ox that treads out the grain; and how offensive it is for men to control the human agent who is in partnership with God, and whom the Lord Jesus has invited, ‘Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.’ [Matthew 11:28-30.] ‘We are laborers together with God; ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.’ [1 Corinthians 3:9.]22LtMs, Ms 29, 1907, par. 59
To every church I would bear the message that man is not to exalt his own judgment. Meekness and lowliness of heart will lead men to desire counsel at every step. And the Lord will say, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me.” [Matthew 11:29.] It is our privilege to learn of Jesus. But when men, full of self-confidence, think that it is their place to give counsel, instead of desiring to be counseled by their experienced brethren, they will listen to voices that will lead them in strange paths.22LtMs, Ms 29, 1907, par. 61
It is those who accept the warnings and cautions given them who will walk in safe paths. Let not men yield to the burning desire to become great leaders, or to the desire independently to devise and lay plans for themselves and for the work of God. It is easy for the enemy to work through some who, having themselves need of counsel at every step, undertake the guardianship of souls without having learned the lowliness of Christ. These need counsel from the One who says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden.” [Verse 28.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 43, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 43, 1894, par. 26
He says, “Learn of Me. Come unto Me.” Now let us every one hear it. It is the invitation not from the speaker, but it is the invitation from Jesus Christ Himself. “Come unto me, all ye that are weary in your worldly pursuits, your worldly transactions, and ye shall find rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Will you try it? It takes something besides a novice. You may say these people that claim to believe the binding claims of God’s law, they are novices, they do not know what they are talking about. But we claim something entirely different. We claim that we are wise in keeping the commandments of God, and we want that every soul should become wise.9LtMs, Ms 43, 1894, par. 27
Well, Christ says, “Take my yoke upon you. I have kept my Father’s commandments. 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.” [John 15:10; Matthew 11:29.] Then what? “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Verse 30.] Now, if you are complaining of the heavy load, and all you can hear from your lips is complaining and murmuring for the self-denying you have to make for Christ, you do not know anything about self-denial. Everything you can do for Jesus is such a pleasure and gratification. You never talk about the great sacrifices you are making, no, because you are one with Christ, and you feel it is very, very little you can do if you do your best, and you are doing all you can with your entrusted capital of money He has put into your hands, and with your influence.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 151a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 151a, 1897, par. 3
The Lord has a work for you to do. Bear this in mind. Never, never unyoke from Christ. “Take my yoke,” He says to every son and daughter; “learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. The Lord will pardon our transgressions and will put a new song into our mouths. “I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God: for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness.” Isaiah 61:10.12LtMs, Lt 151a, 1897, par. 19
You are not to gauge your course of action by what others may think or say of you, but work faithfully with an eye single to the glory of God. To every man He has given his work. “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Do not turn away from Jesus and go to human, broken cisterns that can hold no water. All I ask of you, Edson and Emma, is to walk with God in all humility of mind. Trust in Him who is true and faithful, and then you will be found of Him and He will put His Spirit upon you. Say, Be strong, yea, be strong.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 79, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 79, 1897, par. 5
A miserable evil spirit is upon you. You do not have any sense of how offensive your words <and conduct> are to God, and of what an influence you are exerting over others. But if you will seek Him, the Lord will help you out of this long cultivated habit of frivolity and disregard of order and discipline in Christ’s lines. His voice in His Word has called to you, He has pleaded with you. It is that voice that has said, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden; and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]12LtMs, Lt 79, 1897, par. 14
Those who are really Christians will realize that this life is not to be one long holiday, to see how much pleasure they can get out of it. Christ lived not to please Himself. And it is Christ who gave His life for the saving of your soul, that you might appreciate the gift and come unto Him, that you might have power to overcome your natural temperament, co-operate with Him in cutting loose from the companionship of Satan, and become wise in Jesus Christ. You must consent to wear Christ’s yoke, the yoke of restraint; and to lift Christ’s burdens of perfect, entire obedience. You have His testimony, “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 66, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 66, 1898, par. 10
Our lives in this country are like a voyage. We have storm and sunshine, but we bear in mind that we are nearing the desired haven. We shall soon be beyond the storms and tempests. Our present duty is to hearken to the voice that says, “Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] We must accept this invitation daily. The past is contained in the book where all things are written down. We cannot blot out the record, but we can learn many things if we choose. The past should teach us its lessons. As we make the past our monitor, we may also make it our friend. As we call to mind that which in the past has been disagreeable, let it teach us not to repeat it. In the future let nothing be traced which will cause regret in the bye and bye. We may now avoid a bad showing. Every day we live we are making our past history. Today is ours, yesterday is beyond our amendment or control. Then let us not grieve the Spirit of God today, for tomorrow we shall not be able to recall this day; it will be yesterday to us.13LtMs, Lt 66, 1898, par. 11
Today the invitation is given; “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Verses 28, 29.] Christ has rest for all who will wear His yoke and learn His meekness and lowliness of heart. Here we are taught restraint and obedience, and in this we shall find rest. Thank God that in this we shall find rest. Thank God that in humility and obedience we shall find just that which we all need so much—the rest that is found in faith and confidence and perfect trust. We must not manufacture an oppressive yoke for [our] own necks. Let us take the yoke of Christ and in entire obedience draw with Him; then He can give us rest. In obedience to Him peace and grace and assurance will be ours. We shall find rest in Jesus.13LtMs, Lt 66, 1898, par. 14
“As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” [John 15:9, 10.] This is the yoke which Christ invites us to wear—the yoke of obedience. “Learn of me,” He says, “and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] “These things have I spoken unto you, that [through your perfect obedience] my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:11, 12.] The conscience bears its testimony of approval to the sincerity and simplicity of true godliness. We will walk not in the sparks of human devising, in human wisdom, but in the footsteps of Christ.In Heavenly Places
Under Christ’s Yoke, February 16
HP 53.1
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. Matthew 11:28, 29.HP 53.2
Our Saviour purchased the human race by humiliation of the very severest kind.... He points us to the only path that will lead to the strait gate, opening into the narrow way, beyond which lie broad and pleasant pastures. He has marked out every step of the way; and that no one may make a mistake, He tells us just what to do. “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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30). This is the only way in which sinners can be saved. Knowing that no one can obey this command in his own strength, Christ tells us not to be worried nor afraid, but to remember what He can do if we come to Him, trusting in His strength. He says, If you yoke up with Me, your Redeemer, I will be your strength, your efficiency.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 70, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 70, 1898, par. 3
The invitation to old and young is, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]13LtMs, Lt 70, 1898, par. 4
Thank the Lord, with heart and soul and voice, that there is a haven of rest, sweet rest. It is your privilege, and it is my privilege to accept the invitation, and rest. We want now that our remnant of life should be as free as possible from every perplexity and care, that we shall have repose in the life of Christ. “My yoke,” He says, “is easy, and my burden is light.” [Verse 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 100, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 100, 1899, par. 27
Brother Wessels is a little diffident in taking hold in a new place. But though he is in a new country, he has not a new God. He has the same God that he had in Africa, and he can put himself under his teaching here. Christ says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Let us lay hold in order that we can lift. Let us behold the grace and glory in the face of Jesus Christ.14LtMs, Ms 100, 1899, par. 28
The Lord God of Israel wants to work with every man who will be worked, and I believe, Brother Wessels, that you are the very man who wants to be worked. May the Spirit come upon you in rich measure, that you may find rest in learning of Jesus Christ. He says, “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Verse 30.] I have always found it so. Christ’s yoke is easy because He bears the heavy end. His burden is light because He lifts with us. He says, “Learn of me, and ye shall find rest.” [Verse 29.] We need this rest. We need to find it by living experience, and then go right to work, as though we knew that the God of Israel was at our right hand to help us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 229, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 229, 1902, par. 9
“Well,” you say, “I have seen a great many church members, and I see that you cannot cross their track; and even if you do not mean to cross their track, yet they think you are doing it, and then they get in a passion at once. What shall we do with them?” We shall invite them to come to Christ and learn of Him, as Christ has said, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden.” Are there any here of that class? “And I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you”—My yoke, not anybody else’s yoke. “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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]17LtMs, Ms 229, 1902, par. 11
Well, then what? Christ says to them, “Ye shall find rest unto your souls.” He told them, Come, and take My yoke, and I will give you rest. He says, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find.” How? In just that submissive learning of the lessons of Christ, you will find His meekness, His lowliness. Your life is hid with Christ in God, and then what? “Ye shall find.” Why, the yoke of Christ is easy. “My yoke is easy,” He says, “and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 291, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 291, 1903, par. 10
Now, my brother, will you work to a purpose to prepare yourself for the inheritance of the saints in light? You never yet have felt the sinfulness of your own past course. Life is short. A life is presented to you to obtain that is as enduring as the life of God. Will you consider and think and have the true heavenly manliness to do the work that Christ invites you to do now? It is fructifying with Christ. He laid aside His royal crown and His kingly robe and came to meet the powers of darkness in humanity just as you are required to meet the satanic influences. Will you accept the invitation of Christ: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart”? [Matthew 11:28, 29.] This is the very lesson every one of the human family will have to learn, else they can never become sons and daughters of God and be numbered with the royal family. It rests with every one. Will you take His yoke? Will you give up every inducement and attraction of the world? Will you fully come to your Saviour and say, “I accept the terms; I take the yoke of Christ”?18LtMs, Lt 291, 1903, par. 12
I am so sorry that, in your association in Battle Creek, you have been passing over the same ground that many have passed over, trusting to their own individual selves. You need to make a decided change in yourself, answering to conversion. Your Saviour invites you, “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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Verses 29, 30.] Here is your work, and will you grieve the Holy Spirit of God?A Solemn Appeal
Chapter 1—Appeal to Mothers
SA 78.1
All are accountable for their actions while upon probation in this world. All have power to control their actions. If they are weak in virtue and purity of thoughts and acts, they can obtain help from the Friend of the helpless. Jesus is acquainted with all the weaknesses of human nature, and, if entreated, will give strength to overcome the most powerful temptations. All can obtain this strength if they seek for it in humility. Jesus gives all a blessed invitation who are burdened, and laden with sin, to come to him, the sinner’s friend. “Come unto me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest to your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.Manual for Canvassers
Chapter 2—Qualifications of the Canvasser
MC 11.2
The knowledge of the most learned man, if he has not learned in Christ’s school, is foolishness so far as leading souls to Christ is concerned. God can work with those only who will accept the invitation: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.The General Conference Bulletin
April 14, 1901
GCB April 14, 1901, par. 22
“Those who engage in this work should first give themselves unreservedly to God. They should place themselves where they can learn of Christ and follow his example. He has invited them: ‘Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ Matthew 11:28-30. Angels are commissioned to go forth with those who take up this work in true humility.”The Southern Watchman
May 29, 1902
SW May 29, 1902, par. 1
Those who engage in this work should first give themselves unreservedly to God. They should place themselves where they can learn of Christ and follow his example. He has invited them: “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. Angels are commissioned to go forth with those who take up this work in true humility.Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887
Intrusions of Miles Grant
EGWE 143.5
On Friday night she spoke at seven o’clock on Matthew 11:28-30,“Come unto me all ye that labour.” Half an hour later Grant opened his meeting in the room above, speaking on sanctification, but making little mention of Mrs. White. He did tell his audience that she was among them in the crowd, but later corrected himself. Instead, Mary K. White and A. C. Bourdeau attended, Mary K. taking down Grant’s sermon in shorthand. At Grant’s side to do the translating was a Mr. O. Corcorda whom Mary described as a “smooth voiced, age-to-come no-Sabbath man.”Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887
Two weeks of public evangelism at Nimes, France
EGWE 239.2
Sabbath, October 16, “If Thou Wilt Enter Into Life,” Matthew 19:16-20 Sunday, October 17, “Come Unto Me,” Matthew 11:28-30 Monday, October 18, “Walk in the Light,” John 14:21 Wednesday, October 20, “The Ladder to Heaven,” 2 Peter 1:1 Thursday, October 21, “Search the Scriptures,” 2 Peter 1:19-21 Friday, October 22, “The Cross Before the Crown,” Matthew 16:24-27 Sabbath, October 23, “God’s Law the Standard of Character,” John 7:14-17. Sunday, October 24, “The Hope Set Before Us,” 1 John 3:1 Sabbath, October 30, “Two Standards,” 1 Corinthians 2:12-14 Sunday, October 31, “Gaining a Fitness for Heaven,” Luke 12:34.The Colporteur Evangelist
To Those Attending School
CEv 11.2
The knowledge of the most learned man, if he has not learned in Christ’s school, is foolishness so far as leading souls to Christ is concerned. God can work with those only who will accept the invitation: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.The Review and Herald
August 2, 1881
RH August 2, 1881, par. 1
Jesus invites the weary to come to him for rest: “Come unto me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.The Review and Herald
May 6, 1902
RH May 6, 1902, par. 1
Those who engage in this work should first give themselves unreservedly to God. They should place themselves where they can learn of Christ and follow his example. He has invited them: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. Angels are commissioned to go forth with those who take up this work in true humility.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Qualifications of the Colporteur
2TT 537.2
The knowledge of the most learned man, if he has not learned in Christ’s school, is foolishness so far as leading souls to Christ is concerned. God can work with those only who will accept the invitation: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
The Word of God Our Safeguard
3TT 277.3
Men may still learn the things that belong to their peace. Mercy’s voice may still be heard calling: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. It is only when spiritual life is given that rest is found and lasting good secured. We must be able to say, in storm and tempest: “My anchor holds.”From Heaven With Love
Chapter 34—His Yoke Is Easy and His Burden Light
HLv 219.1
“Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” The Saviour left none to feel shut out from His care and love. He looked upon the distressed and heart-burdened, those whose hopes were blighted and who with earthly joys were seeking to quiet the longing of the soul, and He invited all to find rest in Him.HLv 219.2
Tenderly He told the toiling people, “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.”HLv 219.3
In these words Christ is speaking to every human being. Whether they know it or not, all are weighed down with burdens that only Christ can remove. The heaviest burden is the burden of sin. If we were left to bear this, it would crush us. But the Sinless One has taken our place. “The Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6. He has borne the burden of our guilt. The burden of care and sorrow also He will bear.HLv 219.4
The Elder Brother of our race is by the eternal throne. He knows by experience the weaknesses of humanity, our wants, and the strength of our temptations, for He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Are you tempted? He will deliver. Are you weak? He will strengthen. Are you ignorant? He will enlighten. Are you wounded? He will heal. “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3.HLv 219.5
Whatever your anxieties and trials, spread out your case before the Lord. Your spirit will be braced for endurance. The way will be opened to disentangle yourself from embarrassment and difficulty. The heavier your burdens, the more blessed the rest in casting them upon the Burden Bearer.HLv 220.1
The rest that Christ offers depends on conditions, but these are plainly specified. They are those with which all can comply.HLv 220.2
“Take My yoke upon you.” The yoke is an instrument of service. Cattle are yoked for labor, and the yoke is essential that they may labor effectually. By this illustration Jesus teaches that we are called to service. We are to take upon us His yoke.HLv 220.3
The yoke is the law of God, in the new covenant written in the heart. It binds the human worker to the will of God. If we were left to go just where our will would lead us, we should fall into Satan’s ranks. Therefore God confines us to His will.HLv 220.4
The yoke of service Christ Himself has borne in humanity. He said, “I came down from heaven, not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me.” John 6:38. Love for God, zeal for His glory, and love for fallen humanity brought Jesus to earth. This was the controlling power of His life. This principle He bids us adopt.HLv 220.5
Many whose hearts are aching under a load of care have chosen the world’s service, accepted its perplexities, adopted its customs. Thus their life is made a weariness. To gratify worldly desires, they wound the conscience and bring upon themselves an additional burden of remorse. Our Lord desires them to lay aside this yoke of bondage. He says, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” He bids them seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Worry is blind and cannot discern the future, but in every difficulty Jesus has His way prepared to bring relief. Our heavenly Father has a thousand ways to provide for us, of which we know nothing. Those who make the service and honor of God supreme will find perplexities vanish and a plain path before their feet.HLv 221.1
“Learn of Me,” says Jesus, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest.” We are to enter the school of Christ and learn from Him. Redemption is that process by which the soul is trained for heaven. This training means emancipation from ideas, habits, and practices gained in the school of the prince of darkness.HLv 221.2
In the heart of Christ there was perfect peace. He was never elated by applause nor dejected by censure or disappointment. Amid opposition and cruel treatment, He was still of good courage. But many of His followers have an anxious, troubled heart, because they are afraid to trust God. They shrink from the consequences of complete surrender to Him. But unless they make this surrender, they cannot find peace.HLv 221.3
When we are born from above, the same mind will be in us that was in Jesus. Then we shall not be seeking the highest place. We shall desire to sit at the feet of Jesus, and learn of Him. We shall understand that the value of our work is in proportion to the impartation of the Holy Spirit. Trust in God brings holier qualities of mind, so that in patience we may possess our souls.HLv 221.4
The yoke is placed on the oxen to aid in drawing the load, to lighten the burden. So with the yoke of Christ. When our will is swallowed up in the will of God, we shall find life’s burden light. He who walks in the way of God’s commandments walks with Christ, and in His love the heart is at rest. When Moses prayed, “Show me now Thy ways, that I may know Thee,” the Lord answered, “My presence will go with thee, and I will give thee rest.” Exodus 33:13.HLv 221.5
Those who take Christ at His word, and surrender their lives to His ordering, will find peace. Nothing of the world can make them sad when Jesus makes them glad by His presence. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee.” Isaiah 26:3.HLv 222.1
Our lives may seem a tangle, but as we submit to the wise Master Worker, He will bring out the pattern of life and character that will be to His own glory. And that character which expresses the glory—the character—of Christ will be received into the Paradise of God.HLv 222.2
As through Jesus we enter into rest, heaven begins here. We respond to His invitation, Come, learn of Me, and thus we begin the life eternal. Heaven is a ceaseless approaching to God through Christ. The more we know of God, the more intense will be our happiness. As we walk with Jesus in this life, we may be filled with His love, satisfied with His presence. All that human nature can bear, we may receive here.Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 595—Avondale College 1894-1900
8MR 260.5
“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; ... and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). This is the higher education, to learn the meekness and lowliness of Christ.—Manuscript 185, 1898, 6. (Diary, August 11, 1898).Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 603—Cautions Regarding Work Contracts
8MR 300.2
I call upon all to fasten themselves to Christ. He invites them, “Come unto me.... 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30.)From the Heart
The Christian’s Rest, February 11
FH 54.1
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30.With God at Dawn
Take My Yoke—It Is Easy, April 4
WGD 96.1
Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 20, 1867
1LtMs, Lt 20, 1867, par. 6
I saw, Brother Morrell, you must cast away your fears. Leave consequences with the Lord and let go. You try too hard to save yourself, to do some great thing yourself which will commend you to God. All God requires of you, dear brother, is entire submission of yourself to him with all the consequences that your acceptance of the whole truth involves. Satan says, what if it is error after all, can you afford to run the risk? Jesus loves you, and if you will consecrate yourself and all that you have to Him, He will accept you and will be your Burden-bearer, your never failing Friend. You have looked with terror and alarm at the cross of Christ. The yoke has appeared to you galling. Satan has made it appear thus. Jesus has invited you to come to Him. “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls, for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 36, 1875
2LtMs, Lt 36, 1875, par. 6
What evidence we have of the matchless love of Jesus in that He left heaven and came to the earth to help us. He has said, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 916—Make Christ Your Constant Counsellor
11MR 357.2
The invitation is to you, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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: for my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 2b, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 2b, 1874, par. 2
The invitation is to you, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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: for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 2, 1870
2LtMs, Lt 2, 1870, par. 14
You must learn of Him who has invited you, “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest to your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. The meek and lowly Saviour invites you to learn of Him, who, “when he was reviled, he reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously.” 1 Peter 2:23. “He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth.” Isaiah 53:7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 29, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 29, 1885, par. 19
We rode out for two hours. At seven o’clock we went to our hired hall to meeting, and there I spoke upon (Matthew 11:28-30), “Come unto me all ye that labor, etc.” We did not have a large congregation. I spoke about thirty minutes, making no reference whatever to Eld. Grant. I felt now was the time to trust God, when it seemed that the powers of darkness were combined against us. The Lord has not forsaken the earth, neither has He forsaken His people. Satan has exercised his power in these valleys for a long time. He is not ready to let go his hold upon the people here who have maintained the warfare against him. Eld. Grant spoke in the room above the hall where we were, and he made some reference to Mrs. White, professing to know me when he knows nothing of me. M. K. White took notes in shorthand. He thought I was present and therefore made his remarks, saying that Mrs. White was present, but I cared not to be present. He has followed me with falsehood and with his misrepresentations for so many years that I expect he will do anything and everything he can against us, and me in particular, but the Pharisees did the same to Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 43, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 43, 1886, par. 4
You could not make a greater mistake than to take the voice of man. Those who will not hear truth, when it crosses their pet theories, will often place themselves out of the reach of hearing when they should be the very ones to hear. The same thing is acted over today as it was in the days of Christ. The Pharisees then turned a deaf ear to the instructions of the divine Teacher. But it is our duty and privilege to be learners in the school of Christ. We want to learn of Him who is meek and lowly in heart, who said, “Come unto Me ... and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 9, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 9, 1885, par. 8
Jesus asks for our love and confidence. He knows that we need Him, that we need the peace which He alone can give, the rest which He alone can bestow. “Come unto Me,” He says, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 8, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 8, 1886, par. 3
The furnace fires are not to extinguish, but to refine, ennoble, sanctify. Without these trials we would not feel so much our need of God and His help. We would become proud and self-sufficient. In these trials I see evidence that the Lord’s eye is upon you, and that He means to draw your heart to Himself. It is not the whole but the wounded who need a physician: those who are pressed almost beyond the point of endurance need a helper. Turn unto the stronghold. Learn the precious lesson, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]4LtMs, Lt 8, 1886, par. 18
It hurts you when one for whom you have done much becomes your enemy, because of having been brought under an influence which was against you. But do you not do nearly the same thing to Jesus? He has been your best friend. He has done everything He could do to win your love. He has invited your confidence. He has invited you to come to Him with all your burdens and all your griefs and has pledged His word, that He would give you rest and peace if you wear His yoke and lift His burdens, which yoke He declares is easy and the burden light. [Matthew 11:28-30.] Show that you do believe. Take God at His word. You never could have stood where you are, bearing the responsibilities you have borne, unless Jesus had given you special help. Acknowledge this. Praise God for the help He has been to you, and trust Him still.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 7, 1885
4LtMs, Lt 7, 1885, par. 16
Do not either of you feel that the whole weight and burden of the cause rests upon your souls. Jesus is the great burden-bearer. He is your helper. He says, “Come unto Me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 40, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 40, 1886, par. 1
Text: Matthew 11:28-30. “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”4LtMs, Ms 40, 1886, par. 6
This duty cannot be performed in our own strength, but our help is in Christ, and we hear the invitation, “Come unto Me.” [Verse 28.] Now the condition is to come and submit to the conditions laid down in His Word. We are not to contend for our own ways, but to conform to the will of God. We are here as probationers, to perfect character for eternal life. We must realize the merits of Jesus and seek to be like Him, for He is our perfect pattern.4LtMs, Ms 40, 1886, par. 8
Again Christ says, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me.” [Verse 29.] We are students in the school of Christ, to learn our duty, and this involves a duty to diligently search the Scriptures. In them God, through His prophets, has given instruction as to how to secure eternal life. Shall we be indifferent to this instruction? To understand the truth will require effort on our part, but we can gain that necessary knowledge with the help of Christ. He has died for us, He appreciates all our efforts, and He ever stands ready to assist those who are striving to gain the necessary knowledge.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 2, 1883
4LtMs, Ms 2, 1883, par. 10
“Come unto me,” Christ said, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Lean not on the best man who lives. He is not wise enough or strong enough to hold you up. Take all your perplexities to Jesus. You may lean with your whole weight upon Him, and He will uphold you, for He is strong. He will not sink under the burdens you place on Him.Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]
MR No. 1169—Instruction to Believers
15MR 255.3
The hard, cruel spirit which judges and condemns has left the trace of the enemy upon everything. But mercy is to come in and lay her broad impress upon every plan. The world is to see principles different from those which have hitherto been presented. Christ has erected the cross. He does not call upon any man to manufacture tests and crosses for His people. He presents His requirements before them, and gives them the invitation, “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and my burden is light” [Matthew 11:28-30]. Wear My yoke, and in your daily experience you will find the rest which comes only to the obedient.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 24, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 24, 1888, par. 18
I felt very much pained at heart over the condition of things. I made most earnest appeals to my brethren and sisters when assembled in the morning meetings and entreated that we should make this occasion a season of profit, searching the Scriptures together with humility of heart. I entreated that there should not be such freedom in talking in regard to things of which they knew but little. All needed to learn lessons in the school of Christ. Jesus has invited, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. If we daily learn the lessons of humility and lowliness of heart, there will not be the feelings which exist at this meeting.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 11, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 11, 1887, par. 14
Now we have the pattern presented which we are to copy. “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” [Verse 5.] We are not in favor with God, unless we obey His Word. We must bear the resemblance to Christ. If we are branches of the living Vine, we shall bear the same qualities of fruit as the parent stalk. If we have not the Spirit of Christ, we are none of His, and will be engaged in difference and strife, rather than in unity and peace. What was the Spirit of Christ? He was meek and lowly, pure and undefiled. “Come,” says Christ, “unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] The special lessons that we are to learn of Jesus are His meekness, His lowliness, His humility. We must walk in the same spirit, in the same steps with the Lord Jesus who humbled Himself on our account, that we might be exalted to become sons and daughters of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 39, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 39, 1887, par. 16
Do not either of you feel that the whole weight and burden of the cause rests on your souls. Jesus is the great burden-bearer, and He is your helper. He says: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Talk less about yourselves and more of Jesus and His sufferings. The less you talk about yourselves, the better will be your influence. Meekness and lowliness are daily lessons to learn in the school of Christ. You need to lie low at the feet of Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 8a, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 8a, 1888, par. 39
Piety must be practiced in the home. Interested personal efforts must be made for those around you. Seek the Lord in private prayer. Ask Christ to do for you what you need to have done. He has been tempted in all points like as we are, and He knows now to succor those that are tempted. God calls upon you to leave the atmosphere of unbelief in which you have been dwelling and place yourselves in an atmosphere of faith and confidence. Do your best. Do not seek wisdom from finite men, who may be bewildered by the temptations of Satan, who may plant the seeds of doubt rather than the seeds of faith. Go to Jesus, “who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not.” [James 1:5.] Has not His invitation reached your ears and touched your heart? He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 12, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 12, 1889, par. 3
The promise is to be claimed by faith. Jesus invites you to come to Him and learn of Him, and “I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:29. This rest is not found in inattention and idleness, but in yielding the will to the will of Jesus, for, says Christ, “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:30. Therefore your will must become God’s will. Your peace, your rest, comes in wearing Christ’s yoke; you have the peace of Christ, and your conscience is not continually scourging you because you have not committed yourself to do the will of God. When you love to do the requirements of God, there is sweet enjoyment, not in idleness, but enjoyment identified with, and realized through, the exercise of all your powers on the Lord’s side.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 27, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 27, 1890, par. 14
Confess your sins to one another and to God. Arthur, covenant before God and angels that the past of your life shall suffice to have wrought the will of Satan. May the Lord bring you both to a position where you will humbly seek Him with the whole heart, is my earnest desire and prayer. If you do seek Him with all the heart, might, mind, and strength, He will be found of you. The invitation is, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” [Isaiah 1:18.] Confess and forsake your sins, and appropriate to yourselves the promises of pardon, and of Christ’s righteousness. This alone will be accepted of God. The proclamation is made to you who are sinners in His sight, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] Strive, for the grasp of the destroyer is upon you, and if you do not make determined effort, he will put his own seal upon you. Strive, for the foe is on the right hand and on the left, before you, behind you, and he must be resisted and overcome or he will overcome you. Strive, for there is a crown of immortality to win. Strive, in the strength of Christ, not in your own strength. Put away your avariciousness. It is a terrible thing to cling to your own ways, to your own will, and risk the consequences. Arthur, I call upon you to be reconciled to God. Your only hope is to fall upon the Rock and to be broken.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 25, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 25, 1890, par. 6
He was seeking to give knowledge to the ignorant and hope to the despairing. He was working to give that wisdom to the world which would make them wise unto salvation. He was seeking to lighten the self-imposed burdens of worldly anxiety and care by inviting the people to come to Him and find rest and peace, to exchange their self-made, cumberous, galling yoke for His yoke, which was easy, and their worldly burdens, which were heavy, for His burdens, which were light. His voice has been coming down along the line to our time with the gracious words of invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] We read that the common people heard Him gladly. [Mark 12:37.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 8a, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 8a, 1890, par. 9
Christ did not seek to be thought great, and yet He was the Majesty of heaven, equal in dignity and glory with the infinite God. He was God manifested in the flesh. What a rebuke is the life of Christ to everything like self-conceit, self-exaltation, seeking to be great among men! He was a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. Wonder, O heaven, and be astonished, O earth! The divine nature in the person of Christ was not transformed in human nature and the human nature of the Son of man was not changed into the divine nature, but they were mysteriously blended in the Saviour of men. He was not the Father but in Him dwelt all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and yet He calls to a suffering world, “Come unto me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 33, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 33, 1891, par. 6
Ambition for the highest position excluded Satan from heaven, and he means to work upon every human being to lead them to sin as he has sinned. But ambition to do large things wears away the life with a great many perplexities. The invitation of Christ is, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. Ambition in the disciples of Christ, and thirst to be highest, make them represent the men of the world. They are sure to lose Christ out of their hearts, and they find disappointment following disappointment. Many in this world who are first in privileges and count themselves in many respects talented above others, will in the future great test find themselves far below the humble, meek, and lowly ones. God’s estimate is accurate. Man’s measurement is deceiving. Humility and the disposition to serve God by serving others are the true marks of Christlikeness, and they will be truly honored in the kingdom of God.Manuscript Releases, vol. 4 [Nos. 210-259]
MR No. 224—Ellen G. White Letters to Young Christians
4MR 164.3
The promise is to be claimed by faith. Jesus invites you to come to Him and learn of Him, and “I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29). This rest is not found in inattention and idleness, but in yielding the will to the will of Jesus; for, says Christ, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30). Therefore your will must become God’s will. Your peace, your rest, comes in wearing Christ’s yoke; you have the peace of Christ, and your conscience is not continually scourging you because you have not committed yourself to do the will of God. When you love to do the requirements of God, there is sweet enjoyment, not in idleness, but enjoyment identified with, and realized through, the exercise of all your powers on the Lord’s side. Christ’s service means work. You can be a dutiful, obedient child of God. A soldier of Jesus Christ does not mean pleasure but hard work. You may say, “What can I do?” By coming out fully on the Lord’s side, you can exert an influence over your young companions; by refusing to do a wrong action, you can place yourself thus far on Christ’s side.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Matthew 11:28-29
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
A Personal Appeal
6T 159.3
The Great Teacher who came down from heaven has not directed teachers to study any of the reputedly great authors. He says: “Come unto Me.... Learn of Me; ... and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:28, 29. Christ has promised, and in learning lessons of Him we shall find rest. All the treasures of heaven were committed to Him that He might give these gifts to the diligent, persevering seeker. He is of God made unto us “wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.” 1 Corinthians 1:30.That I May Know Him
Evidence of Our Allegiance, October 14
TMK 293.3
Today the invitation is given: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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” (Matthew 11:28, 29). Christ has rest for all who will wear His yoke and learn His meekness and lowliness of heart. Here we are taught restraint and obedience, and in this we shall find rest. Thank God that in humility and obedience we shall find just that which we all need so much—the rest that is found in faith and confidence and perfect trust. We must not manufacture an oppressive yoke for our necks. Let us take the yoke of Christ and in entire obedience draw with Him....The Faith I Live By
His Gentle, Loving Care, February 26
FLB 63.5
Do we well to be thus unbelieving? Why should we be ungrateful and distrustful? Jesus is our friend; all heaven is interested in our welfare; and our anxiety and fear grieve the Holy Spirit of God. We should not indulge in a solicitude that only frets and wears us, but does not help us to bear trials.... He invites the weary and care-laden, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Lay off the yoke of anxiety and worldly care that you have placed on your own neck, and “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.” Matthew 11:28, 29. We may find rest and peace in God.124Patriarchs and Prophets, 293, 294.The Upward Look
Who Is the Greatest? May 2
UL 136.3
We are ever to be learners of Christ. He has invited us, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and [in your own experience, as you partake of My spirit and principles] ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:28, 29). Christ’s yoke is a yoke of submission and obedience....The Upward Look
Two Spirits in the World, September 28
UL 285.5
But He who came to our world to seek and to save that which was lost has pledged His own life that men might have a second probation. He has pity, and compassion, and love that are without a parallel; and He has made every provision in behalf of men that none need perish. The divine Son of God came into our world, its Light and Life, to encompass the whole world and to attract and unite to Himself every human being who is under Satan’s discipline and rule. He invites them, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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” (Matthew 11:28, 29). Thus He unites with Himself by a new inspiration of grace all who will come unto Him. He puts upon them His seal, His sign of obedience and loyalty to His holy Sabbath.—Manuscript 104, September 28, 1897, “Condemned by the Jews.”This Day With God
More Privileged Than Angels, September 3
TDG 255.5
“Come unto me,” says Jesus, “all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and [in learning and practicing these lessons] ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:28, 29). If we would live a Christian life, we must constantly cooperate with God, losing self in dependence upon Jesus Christ. Every day we should work as for eternity.Christian Education
Chapter 9—The Treasure with Which to Store the Mind
CE 81.1
In the days of Christ the established teachers instructed men in the traditions of the fathers, in childish fables, mingled with the opinions of those who they thought were high authorities. Yet neither high nor low could discern any ray of light in their teaching. What wonder was it that crowds followed in the footsteps of the Lord, and gave him homage as they listened to his words! He revealed truths that had been buried under the rubbish of error, and he freed them from the exactions and traditions of men, and bade them stand fast forever. He rescued truth from its obscurity, and set it in its proper framework, to shine in its original luster. He addressed men in his own name; for authority was vested in himself, and why should men, professing to be his followers, not speak with authority concerning subjects on which he has given light? Why take inferior sources of instruction when Christ is the great Teacher who knows all things? Why present inferior authors to the attention of students, when he whose words are spirit and life invites, “Come, ... and learn of me”? [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Ye Shall Receive Power
Christlikeness, March 31
YRP 99.2
Christ is soon coming in the clouds of heaven, and we must be prepared to meet Him, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing. We are now to accept the invitation of Christ. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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” (Matthew 11:28, 29). The words of Christ to Nicodemus are of practical value to us today: “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit” (John 3:5-8).Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 144, 1901
2SAT 164.1
If when you ask you do not immediately feel any special exercise of feeling, do not think that your prayer is not answered. The One who says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened” [Matthew 7:7, 8], will hear and answer you. Let then His Word be your trust; ask and seek and have the privilege of finding. Christ has encouraged you. He says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you”—the yoke of restraint and obedience—“and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” [Matthew 11:28, 29].From Eternity Past
Chapter 26—Israel Meets With Difficulties
EP 202.3
Our Lord does not tell us there are no dangers in our path, but He points us to a never-failing refuge. He invites the weary and care-laden, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Lay off the yoke of anxiety and care that you have placed on your own neck, and “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.” Matthew 11:28, 29. Instead of murmuring and complaining, the language of our hearts should be, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” Psalm 103:2.Homeward Bound
Your Very First Work, May 6
HB 147.5
Jesus says, “Abide in Me.” These words convey the idea of rest, stability, confidence. Again He invites, “Come unto Me, . . . and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28.) The words of the psalmist express the same thought: “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him.” . . . (Psalm 37:7.) This rest is not found in inactivity; for in the Saviour’s invitation the promise of rest is united with the call to labor: “Take My yoke upon you: . . . and ye shall find rest.” (Matthew 11:29.) The heart that rests most fully upon Christ will be most earnest and active in labor for Him.—Steps to Christ, 70, 71.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 8, 1874
2LtMs, Ms 8, 1874, par. 3
The provision was made, but they would not receive it. The Father Himself provided a ransom, even a sacrifice. His own dear Son submitted Himself to His Father’s requirements, came into this sinful world, became a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief. He went about doing good, speaking in tones of tenderness, saying in the deepest and most fervent and sweetest accents ever uttered, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart;” and He assures us we shall find rest to our souls. [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 30, 1870
2LtMs, Lt 30, 1870, par. 25
You have not felt your whole dependence upon God and your inefficiency and weakness and foolishness without His especial wisdom, grace, and power. You have too much worrying and fearing and doubting. You have worked too much in your own strength and labored too hard to preserve your dignity. In God can you prosper. In humility and lowliness of mind will you find great peace and especial strength. The Majesty of heaven has invited all that feel weary and heavy laden, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ... Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Why the burden seems so heavy, and the yoke so galling at times, is because you have got above the meekness and lowliness possessed by our divine Lord. You are too anxious to be somebody. In Christ you will find all the qualifications which would make your work, your burdens, very light. You should cease to try to save self, to exalt self, to honor self, but let self be hid in Jesus, and learn of the One who has invited you, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest to your soul.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 24a, 1882
3LtMs, Lt 24a, 1882, par. 13
Jesus has invited, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:28, 29.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 9, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 9, 1886, par. 11
God wants us to go through the mill. Here this man’s sharp character must be burnished off, and here is one who has taken hold of the truth who has always been coarse in his conversation, and he must overcome that. This is the very thing the apostle means when he says, You must overcome in order to have a home in heaven. Jesus must be in my whole work to transform my character. We must accept the truth as it is in Jesus, and then how kind will we be to one another, how courteous, for this was the work of my Master. We shall see the precious mold of Jesus upon the character; and when we learn the precious lessons He has for us to learn, we will be like Jesus. “Come unto Me,” says He, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 30, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 30, 1886, par. 2
Bro. Daniel, I have so wished that I could see in your letters a somewhat different spirit. In some things I am pleased, but not altogether. You write that you want the notices published just as you have written them, without a word of change. Then you have to repeat so often, “I am sore on some points.” I want to tell you in love, it is your pride that is irritated and sore. When you have less of self and more of Jesus you will find rest in Him. But you think you must carry your own self or you will be crowded and hurt, and yet you continually place yourself where you are hurt. I like not your spirit of talk of your own individual independence, a spirit the Lord has been seeking to separate from you for years, and yet you cling to it with a vise-like grasp. Jesus’ words are to you, “Come unto Me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] This lesson of meekness and lowliness you have daily to learn of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 36, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 36, 1885, par. 28
Christ says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] And then He says, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me.” [Verse 29.] What are the conditions?—We have to bear the cross. Every morning we are to inquire, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Wherever we are, our prayers should each day ascend to God for light. We are to go to Him for our orders. Thus we learn daily precious lessons in the school of Christ.Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene
Chapter 7—Overburdened Housekeepers
CTBH 74.4
Self-love, self-worship, idolatry of self, have bound upon the necks of women a yoke grievous to be borne. They are weighed down with burdens heavy to carry. And this wearisome labor in the interest of fashion is repaid only by suffering and oppression. Christ, looking down the ages, saw the state of things which now exists, and to these overladen ones he gives the blessed invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 28, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 28, 1888, par. 32
Jesus says, “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Jesus took such a position of humility that in order for man to come into union with Him he also must become meek and lowly of heart. All ambition for supremacy in His disciples Jesus rebuked and gave lessons in humility to His disciples that are written for our admonition and warning. Jesus asked His followers, “What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? But they held their peace; for by the way they had disputed among themselves who should be the greatest. And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.” [Mark 9:33-37.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 23a, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 23a, 1890, par. 13
I beseech of you, let the work go deep, make thorough work. In the place of carrying your supposed grievances to Ira Abbey, a poor, erring, sinful mortal, to obtain sympathy, take your grievance to Jesus. He has invited you, “Come unto Me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest; 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, for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 9, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 9, 1892, par. 73
Jesus bids you, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] You are foolishly weak in some things; but when you learn the lessons which Christ has invited you to learn, you will obtain an experience of the highest value to you both.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 53, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 53, 1892, par. 2
Edson, I shall plead with you to seek the Lord most earnestly. What will this life be to us if we lose the life which is to come? I know that you are in danger, and the Lord loves you and He wants to save you, but He cannot do this without the consent of your will. Just as long as you withhold yourself from Him, He cannot help you. He calls for you, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] Not a mere nominal coming, but come with heart and soul, just as you are, fully decided. The only way for you is to renounce self, give up your ways, and take what? “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Verse 29.] Make no terms with God, but take His yoke, lift His burdens, place every ability on the Lord’s side. Die to self, and let your life be hid with Christ in God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 36, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 36, 1891, par. 13
“Come,” says Jesus. “Come,” says Christ your Saviour, “learn of me, for I am meek and lowly of heart.” His arm is extended, “Come unto me, all ye that are weary and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] He has told you where to go. “Come unto me” every one of you, “and I will give you rest.” Do you believe it? Do we believe the Word of God today? Do we believe just what He tells us? What is the matter with us, that we do not have more freedom, and that Christ is not glorified in us? It is because we don’t believe Him. Every soul will act out all the faith that he has.7LtMs, Ms 36, 1891, par. 23
I want to tell you that you have every reason to rejoice today. Christ says, Come, come unto me, and I will give you rest. [Matthew 11:28.] What have we to rejoice in? That Christ is not in Joseph’s new tomb, and a great stone rolled before it. Where is He? Where is Jesus? He has arisen; He has risen from the dead; He has ascended on high. He is our Advocate, and He pleads in our behalf before the Father. We have a Friend at court. Thank God, we have a Friend at court! Then offer up your petitions. The righteousness of Christ is there. The perfection of Christ is there.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 38, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 38, 1892, par. 10
I feel so sad that the professed children of God should bring so little glory to our Redeemer. We need to behold Him more steadfastly, that we may be changed into His image. “As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” [John 15:4.] How He longs to help every soul. He bids them, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] Are any burdened? He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” How is the rest found? “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Do we believe this? Will we draw near and repose in His love?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 18a, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 18a, 1891, par. 20
Open the door of your heart, and let Jesus come in and abide with you. Then you will be a blessing indeed to all around you. Now you are a shadow, a cloud. May the Lord work for you, and may you see that you have manufactured for your neck a galling yoke that is not the yoke of Christ. Christ asks you to change this yoke. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 92, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 92, 1891, par. 5
“Come unto me all ye that are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you,” which is a yoke of restraint from evil and is obedience in all righteousness. “Learn of me for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Learning of Christ we understand His warnings are given against the specious working of the enemy, for Satan is always vigilant, watching to catch souls. His words are spirit and life which are to be brought into our minds and hearts and into our character building.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 6, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 6, 1893, par. 16
Dear sister in Christ Jesus, in order to have the love of Christ in our hearts, we must cultivate the precious plant. We will long for the dew of heaven, for the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, to soften and subdue the soil of the heart, and watch zealously to pluck up the weeds that would crowd out the precious plant of love and leave it cold, hard, and unlovely. Oh what an example we have in Jesus! His lips never uttered a harsh word. Unholy temper never spoiled His character. He has invited, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]8LtMs, Lt 6, 1893, par. 18
Now Jesus loves you and He wants your love. He would have you remember that He gave His precious life that you should not perish; and He will be unto you a present help in every time of need. Only look to Jesus and tell Him every perplexity and trial. You must learn of Jesus, and ask Him to help and strengthen and bless you, and believe that He hears your prayers. Jesus invites you, “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden.” You feel this decidedly at times. Well, come to Jesus when you feel tired and over weary, “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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Seek to imitate the life and character of Jesus. All heaven is looking upon you with deep interest.8LtMs, Lt 6, 1893, par. 20
“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. 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.” [Verses 28, 29.] There will be peace, constant peace, flowing into the soul, for the rest is found in perfect submission to Jesus Christ. Obedience to God’s will finds the rest. The disciple that treads in the meek and lowly steps of the Redeemer finds rest which the world cannot give, and the world cannot take away. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” [Isaiah 26:3.] Constant peace flowing into the soul reveals a living wellspring to refresh other souls.Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
A True Representation
CT 30.3
Shall we bring into our schools the sower of tares? Shall we permit men who have been taught by the enemy of all truth, to have the education of our youth? Or shall we take the word of God as our guide? Why take the unstable words of men as exalted wisdom, when a greater and certain wisdom is at your command? Why present inferior authors to the attention of students, when He whose words are spirit and life invites, “Come, ... and learn of Me”? Matthew 11:28, 29.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 78, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 78, 1893, par. 8
“Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation; and thy gentleness hath made me great.” [2 Samuel 22:36.] The influence of grace is to soften the heart, to refine and purify the feelings, giving a heaven-born delicacy and sense of propriety. A Christian cannot be self-exalted, for this is not Christlike. The world’s Redeemer, the sinner’s substitute and surety, says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest ... Learn of Me.” What lessons in particular, Lord? “For I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 99, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 99, 1894, par. 10
“A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory and in his name shall the gentiles trust.” [Matthew 12:20, 21.] The entire life of Christ was in fulfillment of inspired prophecy. His lowly life had been predicted by Isaiah, and every step in the history of Jesus revealed the accuracy of the inspired Word. Christ was ever touched with human woe and was ready to relieve those who were suffering and in need. How truly Jesus could say to the multitude, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Christ chose solitude rather than the praise and honor of men. Meek and lowly Lamb of God, we would learn of Thee, that we may reflect in deeper lines thine own image, and represent thy work of love, compassion, and grace.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 11b, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 11b, 1894, par. 6
When our life and character is hid with Christ in God, we cannot afford to let impulse or passion control our words or actions. We must keep the Saviour’s example ever before us. We must do as we believe Jesus would have done under similar circumstances. If trials come, we are not to manifest a rebellious spirit. When we are oppressed, and burdens [are] placed upon us which we think others should bear, we are not to let self rule. In such experiences we are to learn to take the burdens to the right one. “Come unto me,” Christ says, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give your rest.” “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Whatever of conflict or trial we are called to pass through, if we accept this truth of heavenly origin, meekness and lowliness of heart will be revealed in all our actions.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 38, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 38, 1894, par. 12
The Lord would have every human intelligence in His service withhold all severe accusations and railings. We are instructed to walk with wisdom toward them that are without. Leave with God the work of condemning and judging. Christ invites us, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Every one who heeds this invitation will yoke up with Christ. We are to manifest at all times and in all places the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Then the Lord will stand by His messengers and will make them His mouthpieces, and he who is a mouthpiece for God will never put into the lips of human beings words which the Majesty of heaven would not utter when contending with the devil.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 11, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 11, 1894, par. 5
Christ says to everyone that is weary and heavy laden, “Come to Me.” And what? “Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] And notwithstanding the crush of conflict that we shall have to pass through if we accept the truth of heavenly origin, there is meekness and lowliness in <every move.> Hide in Jesus Christ. Our life and character is hid with Christ in God, so we cannot afford to let any impulse of passion control our words or control our actions, but we must keep the Saviour’s example ever before us, and we must do just as Jesus would have done under similar circumstances, and we are not to be revengeful.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 39, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 39, 1894, par. 4
In the character of Christ majesty and humility were blended. Temperance and self-denial were seen in every act of His life. But there was no taint of bigotry, no cold austerity manifested in His manner to lessen His influence over those with whom He came in contact. The world’s Redeemer had a greater-than-angelic nature, yet united with His divine majesty was meekness and humility that attracted all to Himself. He speaks to all saying, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 37, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 37, 1895, par. 4
The Lord would have men of intellectual capacity connected with Him in the great work; but if this class do not appreciate their God-given abilities to study how to exercise their talents in the right way, they may make a decided failure. Therefore Jesus gives the invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” “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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Some may think it a curious method of finding rest, to take a yoke and wear it. This is the spiritual yoking up with Jesus. Some always refuse to wear Christ’s yoke and to be learners of Christ [and] laborers together with God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 91, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 91, 1895, par. 10
God has a work for you to do for him in being a blessing to others, but Satan has tried to entangle your feet in his net. The invitation I am commissioned to give to you from Jesus is, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] That rest you will now appreciate as never before. Only come to Jesus now, while it is called today. The experience you have been passing through will prove of highest value to you when yoked up with Christ, to be a laborer together with God. You have delighted in the truth, you have believed the truth, and you believe it still, and hope against hope because the Holy Spirit is striving with you.Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Are We in the Faith?
GW92 432.3
Jesus invites, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Have you found this rest? If not, there is something for you to do. Do not rely on an experience that you had years in the past, it is your privilege to have a living connection with Christ now. Come to him with brokenness of heart and contrition of spirit, praying for his grace. The melting power of God can do wonders in subduing the heart, and making it tender and impressible. You may come with full assurance of faith, and he will fill your heart with rest, and peace, and love.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 114, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 114, 1895, par. 6
God expects everyone to do his best, to improve every God-given ability, by the union of soul with Christ through faith. This union with Christ through faith produces a Christlike character. Christ’s invitation is, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me.” To do great things? No, to be “meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] False religion may have a manufactured humility, a pretension, an outside showing, which may be termed humility on stilts.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 17, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, par. 27
How many petty grievances the men traces upon paper, and pours into the soul of his fellow men. How unwise it is to perpetuate and communicate to others those things you had better have kept to yourself. Never trace a line of discouragement. If you do just as Jesus has told you to do, you will find help. “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 109, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 109, 1896, par. 28
God would have you come into close relation with Him. He rejoices more over one sinner that repenteth than over the ninety-and-nine that never went astray. The heart of infinite love rejoices when one lost sheep returns to the fold. Christ desires that you shall be a diligent learner in His school, and in a voice full of love and tenderness, He calls, “Come unto me, ... and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] Drop the yoke others have manufactured for you; break in pieces the yoke you have invented for yourself. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your soul.” [Verse 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 125, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 125, 1896, par. 1
I have received a letter from your mother, in which she speaks of your having a hard time in the office. I feel a deep earnest sympathy for all the youth. Satan presents to them peculiar temptations. But in Christ, the Source of all strength, they can find a refuge from his power. The Saviour says to them, “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] I ask you, young man, Why have you not given your heart to Jesus? Why do you not heed this invitation? He says to you, “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.” [Verse 29.] Bear in mind that you are the purchased possession of Jesus Christ. “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Jesus gave His life for you. He desires that you shall take to Him all your perplexities and trials. You do yourself great injustice in refusing the blessings He so freely offers you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 100, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 100, 1896, par. 13
Those working in places far off from Battle Creek have made a mistake by depending on a few minds in that place. These men do not know the situation of the cause and work in different localities. Let those who are on the ground in these countries remember that God has given them brains and intelligence to use their talents. If they err in some things as they work in their own borders, they are not to be blamed. Those who would blame them have perhaps committed greater errors. Let these men put their trust in God, asking of Him who has promised to give to all who ask Him, and upbraid not. God is a God at hand, not afar off. “Come unto me,” said Christ, “all ye who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] O, how differently from this have the men in Battle Creek felt and acted when consulted. They did not show the meekness and lowliness of heart manifested by the great Teacher and Saviour of men, but have shown instead a selfish superiority, an over-bearing spirit. By this they showed that Jesus did not abide in their hearts. Thank the Lord, all are not of this spirit; but the conferences are fast being leavened with this self-righteous sense of superiority.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 104, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 104, 1897, par. 14
But He who came to our world to seek and to save that which was lost has pledged His own life that men might have a second probation. He has pity and compassion and love that are without a parallel; and He has made every provision in behalf of men that none need perish. The divine Son of God came into our world, its Light and Life, to encompass the whole world and to attract and unite to Himself every human being who is under Satan’s discipline and rule. He invites them, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden; and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Thus He unites with Himself by a new inspiration of grace all who will come unto Him. He puts upon them His seal, His sign of obedience and loyalty to His holy Sabbath.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 118, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 118, 1897, par. 1
I am constrained to write to you this morning. You are often tempted and tried, but the word given to me for you is, “Come unto me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” This rest you will find nowhere else but in Christ. “Take my yoke upon you,” Christ says, “and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] You are in no case to suppose that if you yoke up with the enemy, to do his will and ways, this peace and rest will be yours to enjoy. Jesus is acquainted with you. He knows every temptation with which every soul is beset. Your eye must be constantly fixed upon Jesus, “the Author and Finisher” of your faith. [Hebrews 12:2.] The Lord is your Helper. He is at your right hand to strengthen you as you walk in companionship with Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 131, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 131, 1898, par. 17
Truth is omnipotent, but it does not work in the human agent in opposition to human will. Here is the turning point of freedom and responsibility. The heart can be closed to truth. It can refuse to submit. The Lord calls, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” How are they to come? “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Precious promise!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 210, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 210, 1899, par. 2
Let all seek to understand the meaning of the words, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] There is the giving and there is the finding of the rest that Jesus longs to have every one of His children find.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 48, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 48, 1899, par. 32
I often present before the workers of every class the truth that Christ honored labor. He understands how to encourage the worker. Our Saviour is touched by human woe, whatever it may be. He is our Burden-bearer. He gives to the weary ones the invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] We must each come to this precious Saviour for counsel.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 18, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 18, 1899, par. 4
Christ is calling you just now, my sister. Hear His voice, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] In your children God has placed upon you a great responsibility. Will you separate these dear ones from the influences which would lead them to their Saviour? You will do this just as surely as you do not realize your accountability to God. You need to awaken to your solemn responsibilities. Satan will exult if he can manage you according to his hellish purpose, and through you he will manage your children.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 150, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 56
Whatever in thought, word, or deed; in temper, affection, habit, or disposition is not in perfect harmony with the law of God, the Holy Spirit instantly detects. It then presents the gospel looking glass, that the sinner may see himself in his sinfulness. Sin and the Holy Spirit cannot dwell in the same heart. As the Spirit works upon the heart, the divine virtues of truth are implanted. There is seen that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Man accepts the invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest;” and he finds rest because there is perfect conformity between his will and the will of God. [Matthew 11:28, 29.] He is made a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 73, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 73, 1899, par. 8
Christ can redeem only those who will come under His control. He speaks to every needy soul, saying, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke”—the yoke of submission and obedience—“upon you, and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] No coming to Christ in genuine or complete which does not bring the soul out of self, out of its Christless state, to find Christ its chief good. When we are one with Christ in everything, He enters into the life and soul, directing, pervading, and giving character to all.14LtMs, Ms 73, 1899, par. 11
Christ’s object in presenting before His disciples the parable of the vine was to impress upon their minds the necessity of their having the moral excellence revealed in His own character. “Learn of Me,” He said. [Matthew 11:29.] He desired to create in them a desire for the Holy Spirit. He reproached them for their dullness of comprehension, for many of the truths He sought to teach them were lost to them because of their lack of spiritual intuition.14LtMs, Ms 73, 1899, par. 18
The true union with Christ is represented by the words, “Abide in me.” [John 15:4.] Christ has provided means whereby your whole life may be an unbroken communion with Himself. He invites you, “Come unto me ... and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] How full of compassion is the invitation. This sense of Christ’s abiding presence can only come through living faith, through connection with the vine. There must be a personal consecration to Him. Self must be hid with Christ in God, and Christ declares, “He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit.” [John 15:5.] The grace received will be constantly imparted, as a gratitude offering to God.Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
MR No. 1387—The Lot of God’s People in a World of Sin; Peter’s Denial and Jesus’ Trial; Satan’s Confederacy of Evil Angels and Evil Men
19MR 165.3
But He who came to our world to seek and to save that which was lost has pledged His own life that men might have a second probation. He has pity, and compassion, and love that are without a parallel; and He has made every provision in behalf of men that none need perish. The divine Son of God came into our world, its Light and Life, to encompass the whole world and to attract and unite to Himself every human being who is under Satan’s discipline and rule. He invites them, “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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” [Matthew 11:28, 29]. Thus He unites with Himself by a new inspiration of grace all who will come unto Him. He puts upon them His seal, His sign of obedience and loyalty to His holy Sabbath.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 26, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 26, 1899, par. 25
I want it understood: Those who have been connected with the work of largest importance in our world have been terribly blinded. The Word does not set the boundary to man’s activity and his progress, but the right way is put before him in distinction from the wrong. The prevailing iniquities surrounding the Christian are to be shunned. There is God’s call and the devil’s call, he professing to be as God. Will the still, small voice calling, attracting, inviting, “Come unto me, take my yoke upon you,” be heard? [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Will the many exciting enterprises and selfish, ambitious pursuits in every branch of business lead us to run after the evil in the place of choosing the good? All who have received the endowment of God from on high will have their eyes fixed on the Captain of their salvation, and will advance. As Christ walks, they will walk. Confidence placed in man will prove a snare. He who sets the Lord ever before him will be sustained by Him who hath said, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” [Matthew 28:18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 29, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 29, 1899, par. 4
God requires now, just now, that His people divest themselves of all selfishness, all covetousness, and all impurity. “Come unto me ... Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] We are to become the scholars of Jesus Christ. He says, Yield heart, mind, soul, and strength to My training. Submit in all things to My will. Let your whole life be one with My life. Then not only will I assure you, but I will give, and ye shall find rest to your souls.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 4, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 4, 1899, par. 92
Christ invites us, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 17, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 17, 1899, par. 4
In this wicked and perverse generation, where wickedness and sin are deep and widespread, God calls, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Why did Christ humble Himself to become meek and lowly? Because it was the only way that any of the human family could be saved. God wants men and women to have rest.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 173, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 173, 1901, par. 5
You are not a proper judge of your own merits. Are you a true missionary? Are you carrying forward Christ’s work intelligently? Do you appreciate the privilege of studying in His school? “Come unto me,” Christ says, “and I will give you rest.” Take upon you My yoke of submission and obedience. Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly of heart: and you will find rest unto your soul. [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Then you will not worry for fear that you are not appreciated. Trust your case with Me, saith the Lord, and rest will come to you. He who tries to carry himself has a very heavy burden. Supposing himself to be sufficient for all things, he walks in strange paths, forgetting the precious invitation that brings life and light and peace to those who accept it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 57, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, par. 10
Is not the divine Messenger knocking at the door of the heart for entrance? Is not the Spirit striving with sinners? Has not Christ invited sin-sick souls to sit at His feet and learn of Him, to wear His yoke of submission and obedience? Has He not traversed the length and breadth of the land, scattering blessings in His path? How many who claim to believe on Him have learned His lessons of kindness, of tender pity, of unselfish love? Hear His voice speaking to the weak, the weary, the helpless, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Will you not let grace soften the heart of stone? There is no wearying of His patience, no repressing of His love.16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, par. 11
Christ calls upon us to labor patiently and perseveringly for the thousands perishing in their sins, scattered in all lands like wrecks on a desert shore. Those who share in Christ’s glory must share also in His ministry. Help the weak, the wretched, the desponding. Over and over again repeat the gracious invitation, “Come unto me, ... and I will give you rest.” [Verse 28.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 144, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, par. 5
If when you ask you do not immediately feel any special exercise of feeling, do not think that your prayer is not answered. The One who says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened,” will hear and answer you. [Matthew 7:7, 8.] Let then His Word be your trust, ask and seek, and have the privilege of finding. Christ has encouraged you. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you”—the yoke of restraint and obedience—“and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] We are to find rest by wearing His yoke and bearing His burdens. In being co-workers with Christ in the great work for which He gave His life, we shall find true rest. When we were sinners, He gave His life for us. He wants us to come to Him and learn of Him. Thus we are to find rest. He says He will give you rest. Then do not lay your burdens upon any human being. “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” In doing this you will find in your own experience the rest that Christ gives, the rest that comes from wearing His yoke and lifting His burdens.Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 947—Letter to Emma Weber
12MR 106.2
Jesus’ voice of invitation is heard, Come unto Me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest; take My yoke (not a yoke that you have manufactured) and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. [See Matthew 11:28, 29.] Take all your temporal concerns to Jesus. Prayer in regard to temporal things is an expression of confidence and trust in God. As a child has confidence and trust in its earthly parents, you acknowledge God as your Father; as His child you tell Him your needs—and how sweet to the Christian is this trusting faith. You can say, I have laid down all my burdens at the feet of Jesus. I have committed myself without reserve into His care. He has me in charge; I am not my own; I am bought with a price. He is infallible in wisdom, omnipotent in power, and infinite in knowledge. He must and will give me His wisdom. May the Lord help and strengthen you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 49, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 49, 1902, par. 14
The man who follows on to know the Lord is a student of the Scriptures. Carefully and critically he examines what Christ has been to godly men in all ages and what He has done for them. By faith he garners up these precious evidences of Christ’s care for His followers. He brings Christ into his own experience, believing that He will be to him the same Saviour that He has been to patriarchs, prophets, and apostles. He hears the testimony that these men bear in regard to Christ, and his faith gathers strength. Studying Christ’s life and the lives of His followers, he becomes better acquainted with the excellency of the Majesty of heaven. Strengthened by all these assurances, he can say, with Paul: “Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day. Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.” [2 Timothy 1:11-13.] These words are of much import to every preacher of the gospel. Lightness in conversation is a sin; for by such words God is dishonored. God will acknowledge every work that is done in co-operation with Jesus Christ. And Christ has invited you, burdened though you may be with trials, to come to Him and yoke up with Him. His invitation is: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Many want to fashion a yoke that will fit their necks. Let those go to Jesus and allow Him to place His yoke on them. They will find rest unto their souls; for they will learn of Him who is meek and lowly in heart. By experience they will find that His yoke is easy and His burden light. The blessedness of serving Him will become a reality to them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 158, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 158, 1902, par. 33
The true Christian is a follower of Jesus. Following implies obedience. No soldier can follow his commander unless he obeys orders. Looking ever to Jesus, studying His life, practicing His virtues—this is Christianity. “Learn of Me,” He says. “Come unto Me, ... and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Will you come, believing that He has power to fulfil His Word? Learning Christ’s lessons, wearing the yoke of submission, you will find true rest. Satisfied to be like your Master, you will find that His yoke is indeed easy and His burden light.17LtMs, Ms 158, 1902, par. 63
In the work of God, success does not depend on numbers, on standing, and intellectual attainments, but on the fitness obtained by walking and working with Christ. “Come unto Me,” He says, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] You will find by actual experience that My yoke is easy and My burden light. O for consecrated Christians, for Christlike consistency, for the faith that works by love and purifies the soul!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 192, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 192, 1903, par. 19
Unless Dr. Kellogg shall come to the feet of Jesus as a little child, and receive instruction from Him, there will be continual friction so long as we endeavor to co-operate with him. The Lord desires us to make decided movements to bind up the work in a straight, intelligent manner. We are no longer to permit ourselves to be distressingly hindered. God calls upon His gospel medical missionaries to break every yoke. They are to comply with the conditions that Christ has outlined. He invited those who are bearing heavy burdens to come to Him. “Come unto Me,” He says, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] We need not be hindered by binding contracts, or bonds, or lawyer-framed documents. Everything of this order is dishonoring to the One who owns us. “Ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 177, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 177, 1903, par. 11
I awoke this morning and my heart is drawn out to my heavenly Father that He would—for the sake of His Son, whom I receive and whom I believe to be my Saviour and my Redeemer—relieve my burdened heart. I have carried this burden day after day, night after night, unable to sleep after one o’clock and often awake at twelve and sometimes at ten o’clock, because of the things presented to me. I repeat the words of Christ’s invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 94, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 94, 1903, par. 47
To all Christ says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy leaden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest (in the daily experience) unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Rest will come to all who follow the example given them in the life of Christ. The one whose life practice shows that he has savingly embraced the gospel of Christ will gain access to many souls. This is true of both men and women, and especially of the youth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 167, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 167, 1904, par. 22
Now His invitation: “Come unto Me ... upon you.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] My yoke. You have a yoke of your own, and you will have the biggest difficulty, because you do not give any room in your heart. He wants heavenly favor to come into every heart that is here today.Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 52—Depression
2MCP 493.3
Morning after morning I spoke to the patients about faith and urged them to believe the words of God. Yet this poor man seemed unable to admit that he had faith. I talked with him alone. I presented the truth to him in every way possible, then I asked him if he could not believe that Christ was his individual Saviour and would help him. Our Saviour has said to all who are weary and heavy laden, “Take My yoke upon you.” Do not wear a yoke of your own framing. “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” (Matthew 11:28, 29).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 255, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 255, 1905, par. 9
I am deeply impressed that new habits are to be formed, natural tendencies are to be carefully restrained, and indulged inclination must be brought under control to the law of God. Christ is to rule in the heart by faith, through sanctification of the truth. Through the power of Christ, every soul may stand securely. He is our strength and efficiency. “Come unto Me,” He says, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ... Learn of Me: for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 84, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 84, 1905, par. 10
When we are weary and heavy laden, we are to come to Jesus just as we are for support and sympathy. The Lord will graciously reward His faithful burden-bearers and will help them. “I will give you rest,” He says. “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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Praise the Lord for this assurance, and take from it comfort and strength. Praise God that you have found Christ’s yoke easy and His burden light. Thanksgiving and praise are due to our heavenly Father from human beings for all His favors. Look to Him, and praise Him for His many favors.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 174, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 174, 1905, par. 15
Heaven is full of blessings. The Lord Jesus is inviting every soul: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] A threefold assurance if you will be in earnest to ask, to seek, and to knock. Will you do this?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 216, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 216, 1906, par. 3
“Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] All who humble their hearts, confessing their sins, will find mercy and grace and assurance.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 174, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 174, 1906, par. 7
How long will this deception and opposition to the work of God continue? How long shall it be permitted? Will those who have light and evidence link up with Christ and carry forward His work intelligently? Oh, that all who claim to believe the truth would look away from human devisings and plannings and follow in the footsteps of the meek and lowly Jesus! “Come unto Me,” the Saviour pleads, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 242, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 242, 1906, par. 11
“The Lord would have every human intelligence in His service withhold all severe accusations and railings. We are instructed to walk with wisdom toward them that are without. Leave with God the work of condemning and judging. Christ invites us, ‘Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.’ [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Every one who heeds this invitation will yoke up with Christ. We are to manifest at all times and in all places the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Then the Lord will stand by His messengers and will make them His mouthpieces, and he who is a mouthpiece for God will never put into the lips of human beings words which the majesty of heaven would not utter when contending with the devil.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 151, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 151, 1906, par. 22
Let me tell you, an acknowledged Christ is your instrumentality in all your work. Never magnify self. Christ is your Head. He sends you the Comforter, who should abide with you forever. We need in simple faith to claim the promise, and often and in every perplexity and emergency to claim the agency unseen yet visibly felt. What [is] your part? “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me for I am meek and lowly of heart and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Do not fret at anything. Take all your perplexities to the Lord in prayer and do not burden any soul with your griefs or your sorrows. They have enough of their own. You have an unseen witness to consult, an unseen agency ever ready to receive you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 194, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 194, 1907, par. 2
Now, Christ has furnished us with all encouragement. He says, “Come unto me ... my yoke.” Be sure what yoke you have got, whether it is Christ’s yoke or one you have formed for your own neck. “Take my yoke upon you ... unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]22LtMs, Ms 194, 1907, par. 4
Our minds are susceptible of influences, and other minds all around us are susceptible of influences. Our actions will testify that we are obeying the words of Christ, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden.” [Verse 28.]22LtMs, Ms 194, 1907, par. 5
Then He says, “Take My yoke upon you. You have got a yoke that I have not put upon you, now take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me, for ... of heart,” and then the positive promise is, “Ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Verse 29.] That is what we want. Let every one of us seek to have an experience of his own and of her own, that we can realize that we have a helper in Jesus Christ, that He does not want us to live in an atmosphere of unbelief, He does not want us to live in an atmosphere of doubt and questioning. He wants that every soul of us should come to Him as little children, that we shall ask of Him as little children ask of their parents, and that we shall believe that we shall find relief and not talk darkness. Let us not talk unbelief when we see things that do not just exactly please us. Let us be sure and not do these things ourselves. Let us learn a lesson from the defects that may be seen in others, that we will not create a thread of unhappiness or any thread of thoughts that shall cause disturbance to the minds of any one. Now, we can be missionaries in this way, every one of us. We can keep our tongues as with a bridle while the wicked are before us, those that cannot anticipate what we are doing.22LtMs, Ms 194, 1907, par. 11
The Lord can let His blessing rest upon us, and we want that everyone who shall have anything to do in connection with the work here shall rise higher and higher in intelligence. There is a ladder to climb, a lowest round that we can begin to climb, and the highest round reaches to the throne of God. Therefore we want an education that shall be of that character that every day we shall learn something that will give us a correct impression of the character of God, of the character that we must have in order to become children of God. And we never can get to the top round of the ladder to step off in a unity with the royal family unless we heed the words of Christ, “Come unto Me,” ... I will, there is a positive, ... “I will give you rest. Take My yoke ... unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Now will we come? God help us that every one may come just as you are, feeling unworthy. But do not talk your doubts, because then you are sowing the seed of doubt.22LtMs, Ms 194, 1907, par. 12
Do not talk your unbelief, you are sowing the seeds of unbelief, and do not criticize, for then you are sowing the seeds of criticism. But just keep your eyes fastened upon the pure and lovely character of Christ, and His blessed promise, and you will find that you are gaining, gaining continually in strength and knowledge, and you are fitting for what? Co-laborers with Jesus Christ. We are taking His yoke. “Learn of Me,” He says, “For I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Verse 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 193, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 193, 1907, par. 4
We are Thy people, Lord. We claim Thy promise. We take right hold of Thee, and we want Thy presence above everything else. O Lord, Thou hast said, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest ... unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] We come, Lord, we come just as we are. We come in our weakness, and we want Thy strength, and we ask Thee to teach us in every line what we shall do, that Thy people may have a revealing of Thy Holy Spirit. We want the angels to be in our midst. We want the communion of the Holy Spirit of God. We want it just now, Lord. We want Thy stately steppings to be in this meeting. We want the angels of God, that their presence shall be here, and we want that every one of us shall lay hold of, and receive the power of Thy grace.