Matthew 7:3-5 (KJV) - And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.

So many times we look to solve the problems of our friends, family members, and beyond. Even though we may genuinely want to help, we often do so without considering our own lives. Without first dealing with the problems in our own lives, we're unable to properly assist someone else. As Jesus explains above, we must first extract the problems of our own lives before trying to do the same for someone else...we would be hypocrites if we don't. Then as we deal with the problems in our own lives, we would be in a better position to help someone else.

For some, it can seem easier to point out the problems of others while ignoring their own. They may do this to make themselves seem better and further place the other person beneath them.

Matthew 11:28-30 (KJV) - 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.

But some people feel their problems are too large and complex to handle. They would rather sweep them under the rug or throw them in the closet than to face them. Now, there are situations and problems that may be complex, but there is help through God. Many times, we don't want to relinquish our 'right' to the issue and try to deal with it on our own terms (in the flesh). When things don't go as planned (our way), we further submit our issues to the depths of our subconscious, hoping they would never rise again...but they do...time and again...

The yoke of your problems may be too much for you to bear. They have been weighing you down physically, emotionally, and spiritually. You've tried so hard to settle the matter(s) on your own and even though there may be some temporary relief, the heavy burden returns...so why don't you go to the Lord. He says He will give you rest - refreshing relief. Cast the heavy yoke of your problems aside and take His yoke upon you (which is not hard or pressing).

See, a yoke is made for two oxen to carry/share a specific weight or load. We can take comfort in knowing that the Lord will be with us to help us carry the weight (which His yoke is easy and burden is light). As we are 'paired' with Jesus, we take the time to learn about Him through His word. As you are 'yoked' together with Him, it will be important to remain in step with Him by learning to live His way...a way of rest for our souls.

Then...you are able to help someone...

Galatians 6:1-2 (KJV) - Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.