When We Get Too Weary (Galatians 6:9)
By Anne Peterson
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. - Galatians 6:9
Let’s face it, we all get weary. Wiping the sleep out of our eyes, we know that we’re doing what we’re supposed to be doing. A pandemic was one of the worst things some of us have been through. It is scary to see the infection numbers and the rising count of those lost. Even though we know, at least here in America, that following the guidelines is helping. We are doing what is good. But even that can be taxing.
And sometimes, we look around and see others who are not following suit. And inside of us rises similar feelings like that of the prodigal son’s brother. Here he had been the obedient one and yet, when his prodigal brother returned, he saw his father run to him. Put a robe on his back and a ring on his finger (Luke 15: 11-32).
Sometimes it’s hard to do the right thing when everyone is not complying. And sometimes, like Peter who saw John coming and wondered what John’s position would be with Jesus (John 21:20-22). Instead of just doing what we know we should be doing, we start wondering about others.
What do we do when we get weary? When we think we can’t keep going? The answer is to go to the one who never tires or grows weary (Isaiah 40:28).
God tells us that he will strengthen us and help us (Isaiah 41:10).
He tells us when our strength starts waning, he will renew it and we will soar like eagles (Isaiah 40:31).
And when we think we can no longer do what is asked of us, like Paul we can recognize the source of our strength (Philippians 4:13).
We rise and go through the motions, often feeling helpless. But we must remember that God is sovereign. We are not in this alone. God has promised that he would never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6). And God is not a man that he should lie (Numbers 23:19).
We are not alone. So do not grow weary in doing good.
With Me
I told the Lord, “This journey’s long,”
He said, “I know the length.”
I told Him, “But I’m faint and weak.”
He said, “I’ll give you strength.”
No matter what my words—God heard;
He listened patiently.
But what has meant the most is this,
my Father walks with me.
-Anne Peterson
Anne Peterson is a regular contributor to Crosswalk. Anne is a poet, speaker, published author of 15 books, including her recent book, Always There: Finding God’s Comfort Through Loss. Anne has also written He Whispers: Poetic talks with God. Sign up for Anne's newsletter at www.annepeterson.com and receive a free eBook. Or connect with her on Facebook.
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