I think one of our biggest obstacles to living our life of calling is not primarily a lack of clarity, but rather weariness.
The place of our greatest vulnerability is the space between our deepest need or desire and God’s provision or intervention.
So many things are on the other side of:
– Just a little longer
– Just a little further
– Just a little more
Weariness is not just an aspect of our time or culture. Becoming spiritually and emotionally drained was enough of a temptation in the Apostle Paul’s day that he wrote about this twice in his letters.
- “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Gal. 6:9.
- “And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.” 2 Thess. 3:13
Maybe a more familiar term would be exhaustion or fatigue, which is usually the result of a long engagement with something, especially with the appearance of little change.
Life is filled with challenges and battles, most of which require endurance.
- Something painful that has happened to us or to someone that we care deeply about.
- Something that has still not been resolved or resolved wrongly.
- Something we dreamed of or desired that has still not come to fruition
- A hard situation that has not changed.
- A painful past that we still can’t get free from or a future that seems to heavy.
Often we miss the undeniable work of God because, out of weariness, we give up too soon.
When scripture tells us not be become weary in doing good, it is something that we are responsible for. But throughout scripture, whenever God commands something of us, He provides it to us.
Rest: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28
Relate: “Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Heb. 12:3
Reassure: “Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58
Reawaken: “Encourage one another and build each other up.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11
God and my brothers and sisters in Christ have rescued me many times from the brink of “giving up.”
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Gary
My name is Todd Weyl. I would not expect that you would remember me. But in 2010 and 2011, I attended 2 of your events in Mississippi.
I read something this past week that God has used to help me remember what you had to say at that 2nd event I went to.
I remember going away from that full of encouragement that what was going on in that point in time was meant for purpose and reason. Instead of God giving me a short road, He lead me the long way.
I have admit, I have read anything from you since 2015 or so. And was not sure you were still around till this week.
But when I read this article of yours, it really spoke of the path and journey I have been on.
Thank You