Overcoming Weariness

Originally written August 6, 2008

And let us not be weary in well doing;

for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.  

Gal. 6:9

There are just some days when weariness threatens to overtake me.  Whether it is because I am not well rested, or because the children have been fighting or I'm struggling with a problem.  Whatever the cause may be, weariness can be a tremendous burden.

When we become weary in well doing, we often become unproductive.  How many times have I gotten frustrated with a roadblock in our homeschooling and it has caused us to lose many productive days of learning?  I can't believe that I'm the only one.

When I am weary, I often lose my joy and begin to complain and murmer, causing us to sin.   I might respond unkindly towards a loved one.  Just this week, I was in a situation where one of my girls was struggling with reading and comprehension.  This has been a battle for her and it will often come across as laziness or lack of motivation on her part.    I was so weary with the lack of progress and motivation that I reacted to her in a very unkind way.  I was and am so ashamed!  Those words and the way that I am sure they made her feel can never be taken back!  How many times will Satan use them to provide discouragement to her in the future?

Jesus commands us not to be weary and if He gives us a command, it is certain that He provides a way for us to follow it.   So, I began to study how to battle this weariness that I seem to face on occasion.  

I believe there are three steps to overcoming the battle.  1)  By Bible reading:  Matt. 11:28-29 tells us to learn of Jesus and take His yoke and it is there will find rest.  2) Prayer:  1 Peter 5:7 tells us to cast all our cares on the Lord.  3) By worshiping God:  That may seem counterproductive but if you will force yourself to worship your Creator, He will renew your strength.  You take the focus off of yourself and your problems and place it on Him.  Ps. 63:4-7  You can read the verses for yourself but let me quote you verse 7:  "Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice."

There are three questions taped to my mirror where I will see them first thing in the morning.  Ask yourself:

• Will what I say & do today matter for eternity?
• Will my actions & attitudes draw my children's heart to God?
• Will the words of my mouth be a blessing or encouragement to those around me?

Remember, a joyful home and keeping your children's hearts are of far greater importance than a clean house and finished schoolwork! 

© Adorning Grace 2010