Jesus Lifts the Bitter Yoke

Solomon's glory points to our Lord Jesus, in Whom all God's promises to David have and will be fulfilled.

Christ is far greater than Solomon in every way, but one of these is seldom mentioned.

The urgency of this matter was brought home by the story of a young lady who turned away from Christianity. She was raised in a strict, conservative Christian home, where she struggled to keep the law. Finally, in college, she found the excuse she needed to escape the heavy yoke of law and rules.

Too many believers believe that we are saved by Grace through faith, but we are sanctified by law-keeping and obeying a set of rules.

Solomon made a great error is ruling over his people. He placed a heavy burden of taxation and forced labor upon them, to build all his public works and the temple.

This was exactly what God had warned Israel would happen with a king when they foolishly demanded one.

Solomon's people sought for his son, Rehoboam, to lighten the heavy burden and remove the bitter yoke from them, but Rehoboam stubbornly refused, and the kingdom was rent in twain.

This was what our Lord Jesus was referring to when He promised His people that His yoke is easy and His burden light! He thereby offered Himself as the Son of David, their rightful King, and one far greater than Solomon!

Jesus came in meekness and lowliness of heart - characteristics that Solomon completely lacked.

The heavy burden that Jesus lifts off our backs is the impossible demand of keeping the law for Righteousness. He shifted that burden upon Himself, paid all our sin debts at Calvary, and clothes us with His righteousness.

Praise God, Jesus has given us rest from our burdens!