“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

In the “olden days” in the old west, trading posts were set up and became a very important place for the exchange of goods.  Native Americans could bring their wares, which in most cases were furs, and they traded for items that were more valuable to them.  Through this trading and bartering system they could get things like sugar, flour, firearms and boots.  Both parties benefited from the exchange at the trading post.  They both received something they were looking for – something that was useful to them.  Today we still trade – usually with money – but we’re still looking for good deals.

The Bible tells us to come to God’s “trading post” and make a trade.  We could even call it a ‘free trade agreement!’ The problem is that as we examen ourselves, we find that we have nothing of value to barter with.  Seriously, who would want our sinfulness?  But God, in His mercy, offers to trade with us.  He’s willing to trade our wretchedness with Christ’s righteousness.  What deal! What a bargain!  But we must be willing to give up our sin in order to gain that righteousness and holiness.

In Psalm 46:1 we read, God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  According to this verse, we can bring our troubles to God, and in exchange, He will give us refuge and strength.  That’s amazing!  If we were to go back and read Galatians chapter 5, we would find that we can come to God’s trading post and trade the works of the flesh for much better things. We can exchange hatred and anger for love, gentleness and kindness.  We can bring our frustrations and worries and trade them for peace.  We can bring our sorrow and trade it for joy.  We can bring our selfish ambitions and receive humility and patience.  We can bring our evil desires that we struggle with and exchange them for goodness.

If we only come to the trading post and make a full surrender, we can make a valuable exchange and gain treasures of infinite and eternal value.  I’m reminded of that old song we used to sing:

            I’m trading my sorrows, I’m trading my shame,
            I’m laying them down for the joy of the Lord.
            I’m trading my sickness, I’m trading my pain,
            I’m laying them down for the joy of the Lord.

Let’s go to God’s trading post daily and do business with Him.