For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls

As a father of young children I commonly hear the expression, “I just wish I had the energy of your children.”  A bountiful energy supply would certainly be profitable.  Outside of one’s fantasies we understand that weariness abounds.  Our concern this week is whether or not you are growing weary in the work of the Lord.

God’s people are not immune to weariness.  After several years of fighting the children of Israel appeared to have grown weary and consequently failed to complete the conquest of Canaan (Judges 1.27-36).  The prophet Haggai helped rejuvenate Judah as they lacked the motivation to finish rebuilding the temple (Ezra 4.24; 5.1-2).  Although, let us not miss the fact that the people found the energy to complete their own dwellings (Haggai 1.2-8).

There can be many sources of weariness.  No one is immune from the “worn out” phenomenon.  This is especially true when one fails to see the light at the end of the tunnel.  Christianity, as we know, is not necessarily designed with an observable end in sight.  It is a continuous labor of love (1 Thessalonians 1.3).  At times opposition can hinder one’s enthusiasm (see 2 Timothy 3.12).  Although, I believe the heart of the problem may be in one’s priorities.  I rarely lack the energy to play a round of golf.  Mowing the grass, on the other hand, can sometimes elicit a different response.  In the name of honesty, is it possible that my weariness toward the work of God may be a result of expending my energy on the things that I love more?  Sometimes we need to ask ourselves the tough questions.

I want to leave you with two Bible passages with regard to weariness.  The first is Hebrews 12.3.  “For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.”  In order to overcome weariness, one needs to concentrate on Jesus, the perfect example of overcoming weariness.  On the practical side, what would have happened if Jesus grew weary and failed to complete His task?  What if the opposition was too discouraging?  Or the weight of the cross was simply too much?  Jesus did not grow weary – neither can His followers.  Finally, read Isaiah 40.28-31 immediately before your prayer this week.  Meditate on this passage as you seek God’s help in overcoming weariness.

Lord, help me not grow weary  -- Rob Berghost