A Word for the Weary

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 (English Standard Version)

While today’s verse is often used to speak of service for others, God made it personal to me last night. I related strongly with the word “weary”. Other translations use words like tired, exhausted, loss of heart, fatigued, and spiritless. It has the idea of fainting and going limp! God knew that was where I was at once again. He knew the cycle of thoughts that were playing over and over in my mind. Thoughts of despair, failure, being a burden, unlovable, in the way, and unchangeable. He knew giving up was an option that kept looking appealing. He knew the perceptions of myself and others that screamed louder than the truth. He knew my feelings of foolishness, shame, and embarrassment. With all that He knew He offered me the words of Galatians 6:9.…”Don’t give up. Don’t quit. Don’t give in to the thoughts. It is worth the fight!”

What’s “the good” He wants me to continue doing? Speaking truth. Taking thoughts captive. Applying Scripture and its principles to my life. Asking for help and prayer. Accepting the gifts of friendship He has blessed me with. Putting on the armor of God. Resisting the Devil, his lies, and his tactics. Reviewing who I am in Christ. Keeping in constant communication with my Father. Living by faith more than feelings and emotions. Getting enough sleep. Eating healthier. Being controlled by His Spirit instead of my flesh. The list of good things that are good for me is endless as is the power that comes from each.

Battles are tiring. As I think back on this most recent one I can very easily beat myself up for not being victorious. I eventually let the wrong thoughts take over and it affected my outlook and demeanor. I shut down and distanced myself from those who would help and pray if I would but ask. When it was all said and done I felt like an isolated mess. Yet God still whispered, “Don’t give up. Get back in the fight. Others are praying for you and believing in my power to change you.”

Do I fear the next battle? There’s apprehension because of my past track record. But with each battle there will be growth and lessons learned. There will be fresh awareness of God’s involvement and assistance at all stages. It is a process. I will see victory one step, one thought, one decision at a time.

Father, each time the battle rages and I fear I’ve lost the fight, You come. I will not make it without You. Amen.

Come to Jesus - Chris Rice
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjZEDg9ZGKQ

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.