“He disliked emotion, not because he felt lightly, but because he felt deeply.” —John Buchan
Sometimes people refer to really great music as having a lot of "soul." There's a reason for that. No other word really communicates the depth of humanity as much as the word "soul". When music or any other form of art taps something deep within us, it's tapping something very soul-ish: the part of us that can't be seen.
The Greek word for "soul" is psuche, from which we get the word "psychology". The study of psychology is the study of our soul, and "psyche" is used a lot of different ways in Scripture, but it can be summarized this way: it is the combination of our mind, our emotions, and our will. It's our total personality. So when we make a decision, it is our mind and emotions informing our will. Our mind is the processor of information. Our emotions are the feelers. The will is the decision maker.
Your soul is going to be constantly tired because of the regular trials of life. Everything will tug at you. Some days it will be your mind harassing you, on others your emotions will rage out of control. Your will is tossed and turned like a ship in a storm. Jesus calls to us out of that storm offering a different way to live:
“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
Jesus wants you to rest your soul. He's got it. Only Jesus understands and tenderly loves your soul, so give it to Him today. He will take care of it!
Jesus, I want rest for my soul. I want to take Your yoke and toss off the one I now carry. You promise that Yours is light and easy to carry, and it seems like my soul is always exhausted. Thank You for Your promises. Amen.
