I'm Tired

Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:6-10 ESV). I wish that I could truthfully say that I never get tired in doing the things I do to minister the gospel to others; however, that’s just not true. I get tired, cranky, and impatient. It is a part of the natural course of aging and mental exertion. Now, while I get tired in the Lord's work, I never get tired of the Lord's work. That’s an important difference. It gives us the key to continuing. When you are tired, take a break, rest and recharge. I’m not very good at doing that. A dear friend, John Warlick, has offered his cabin on Boone, NC, for just such recharging. I am ashamed I have not taken him up on his generosity. I’ve been “too busy.” That is merely the result of subtle pride and arrogance. Even Jesus took time off periodically. He withdrew from the many needs surrounding him and recharged. It is a good example for us to follow. Our reading today declares there are sacrifices we make as followers of Jesus. There are things we lose. There are persecutions we face. There are hardships we endure. Jesus said, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Matthew 5:10–12). Notice the word "blessed" is used twice to emphasize the generous blessing of God on the persecuted. Another way to translate it would be "double-blessed are the persecuted" or "happy, happy are the persecuted." We are to be faithful in what we do. That’s what Paul is saying. Don’t grow weary of doing good. Don't be weary in reading your Bible and seeking to live by what it teaches. Don't be weary in praying for your family, friends, and community. Don't be weary in sharing your faith with others. Don't be weary in serving the Lord with the gifts that God has given you. Don't be weary in that. There is a promise that goes with this. Paul says, “in due season, you will reap if you don't give up.” If you’re tired, be encouraged. So was the Lord. Now, do as he did. Recharge. Get a little time and renew your store of energy. Above all, don’t quit. He will bring the harvest!