Weariness isn’t something new. It’s been around as long as work and frustration, as long as difficulty and daylight. Jesus, more than 2,000 years ago, said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
But weariness is more than simply being tired. It’s a lethargy that worms its way into our souls. We become worn down in a way that isn’t eradicated by the usual prescription of rest and recreating. It’s more than something physical. It’s spiritual. Where does weariness come from? What can we do about it?
Staying focused on our faith and on what God asks us to do is the best prevention for weariness. Here are some simple precautions that help us along the way:
1. Don’t do unnecessary things.
Focus your heart on doing what God puts right in front of you today before you pay attention to anything else on your to-do list. His work doesn’t have to be outwardly grand or glorious; it may be something very simple (and easy to overlook). “Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
2. Stay connected.
We are made for companionship and community, and living in isolation is tiring to the soul. If no one is reaching out to you, take the initiative and reach out to others! For “whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25).
3. Confess your sins regularly.
“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” (Acts 3:19). If God can be worn down by our trespasses, so can we! Carrying around a guilt-laden soul is sure to weary us.
4. Seek revitalization instead of numbness.
When we’re tired, the easiest course of action is often to do something mindless. But it is the Lord who “refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake” (Psalm 23:3). Turning to Him works far better than turning on the television.
5. Know what brings you joy.
When we are weary, we often cannot even remember what lifts our hearts. Keep a list of your blessings handy, to help you re-focus on what really matters.
