This is a summary of a part of chapter five of Dr. Kevin McGary’s book, Freed to Be Servant and Slave (available on Amazon).

The Concept of Being “Yoked”

When we hear the word “yoked,” two very different images might come to mind. For fitness enthusiasts, being “yolked” (with an ‘l’) means having impressive muscles and strength. But in the Bible, being “yoked” has a completely different meaning.

In biblical terms, being yoked is about a spiritual connection, specifically with Jesus. It’s not about physical strength but spiritual guidance and support. Let’s explore this idea and see how being yoked with Jesus offers us spiritual strength and direction in our lives.

Biblical Meaning of Being Yoked with Jesus

Jesus says in Matthew 11:29-30, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

This verse uses a farming metaphor that people back then would have understood easily. A yoke was a wooden bar that connected two oxen, helping them work together to pull heavy loads. Jesus uses this image to explain how He wants to guide and direct us in our lives.

When we’re yoked with Jesus, we’re not alone in our struggles. He’s right there with us, helping us carry our burdens and showing us the way forward.

Spiritual Transformation Through Yoking with Christ

Being yoked with Jesus isn’t just about getting help with our problems. It’s about aligning ourselves with His teachings and His way of life. When we do this, we start to experience a kind of peace and rest that we can’t find anywhere else.

A deeper understanding of this concept often comes during challenging times. In moments of stress and feeling overwhelmed at work, shifting focus toward aligning thoughts and actions with Jesus’ teachings can bring an unexpected sense of calm. While difficulties may not disappear, this alignment provides greater strength and resilience to navigate them.

This process of yielding ourselves to God’s will isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. We become vessels for God’s love and grace in the world.

Crucifixion of the Flesh: The Path to Spiritual Growth

The apostle Paul talks about “crucifying the flesh” in Galatians 2:20. This doesn’t mean physically hurting ourselves, but rather letting go of our selfish desires and worldly distractions.

It’s about learning to move beyond our emotions and the things that often distract us from God. Instead, we choose to live in a way that follows Christ’s example.

I’ve found that this is a daily choice. Some days, it’s easier than others to put aside my wants and focus on what God wants for me and from me.

Jesus’s Crucifixion as a Model for Believers

Jesus’ crucifixion is the ultimate example of trusting God completely. In His last moments on the cross, Jesus said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46).

This total trust in God, even in the face of suffering, is something we’re called to imitate in our own lives. It’s about letting go of our attachments to worldly things and trusting God with everything.

Carrying the Cross: The Cost of Discipleship

Following Jesus isn’t always easy. He talked about “carrying our cross,” which means being willing to face challenges and make sacrifices for our faith.

This process of spiritual transformation can be tough, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It’s through these trials that we often experience the most growth and abundance in our spiritual lives.

Dying to the World: Living by the Spirit

Paul writes in Romans 6:11 that we should consider ourselves “dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” This means breaking free from the deceptions and influences of the world around us.

It’s about recognizing that true freedom comes from following Jesus, not from doing whatever we want. This can be a hard truth to accept in our culture, which often promotes self-indulgence.

The Misconception of Partial Commitment to Christ

Sometimes, people think they can accept Jesus as their Savior without fully submitting to Him as the Lord of their lives. But true faith requires full submission in every area of life.

This doesn’t mean we’ll be perfect, but we’re continually striving to align every part of our lives with Christ’s teachings.

Conclusion: The Call to Be Fully Yoked with Christ

In today’s world, it’s easy to see evidence of spiritual disunity and distraction, even within the church. But when we truly submit ourselves to Jesus, we find a unity, purity, and righteousness that can’t be achieved any other way.

Being fully yoked with Christ isn’t always easy, but it’s the path to true peace, purpose, and spiritual growth. It’s an invitation to a deeper, more meaningful life with God.

“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – Matthew 11:29