Several years ago my husband and I owned a business. All of our children worked with us. My husband, John, and I each worked about 60 hours a week. Our sons would help us after school and on weekends. We all worked very hard trying to make a living.

Several years later the business started going downhill and was no longer profitable. The boys had to find other jobs. By this time our sons were married and had to provide for their own families.

It was really bad. We lost everything we had including our home and our business. That was an extremely difficult and painful season in our lives. I remember looking out the window of the house knowing we were soon going to lose it, and praying to God for some answers. I was so mad that I told the devil that no matter what, I would serve God even if I had to live in a tent.

There were many times that we only had beans and cornbread to eat—and we were thankful for that! Well, it even got worse. We lost one grandchild, and later another grandchild had to have open heart surgery when she was two days old. It was pretty rough. We watched our children go through some horrific and trying times in their lives.

Truly, it was only through our faith in God that we were able to survive during these trials. I was convinced that no matter what God would see us through this time.

Matthew 11:29 ESV “God says take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

John 16:33 “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Times like I experienced can make one weary. Today, I see the saints of God growing wearier by the day. Many are working hard trying to make a living but seemingly not getting ahead. In many families both parents are working. Bills are stacking up and the demands of life are pulling them in all directions. By the time they get home at night there is hardly any time left for the children. Couples have little time for each other and certainly no time for God.

As this spiral of weariness continues, it drains a person spiritually, physically and emotionally. Once a person is drained, often they lose their motivation and purpose for living, including ministry.

When believers become weary they do things they otherwise would not do. Some will quit their job, some will quit church and some will leave their companion. Some start drinking in an effort to forget everything around them. They just aren’t able to handle the pressure anymore. And, of course, the enemy attacks their thoughts telling them there is no way out, that things will never change.

We may blame the total cause of weariness on the enemy and his tactics–which is true at times–but, it is often our own lack of rest and not spending enough time alone with God. Our priorities are not in the right order.

Matthew 11:28 ESV “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Those who work for the Lord enjoy a blessing that those without God can never experience. No matter what your job is, if you will keep your eyes on God He will put someone in your path you can talk to about God. This conversation might occur at the water fountain, during your lunch break or possibly in an elevator.

Just be a willing vessel for the Lord. Pray for someone who is hurting. Encourage others to seek the Lord. Allow God’s wisdom to work in your life and thereby show your children, friends, and those around you a better way.

If you will cry out to God for wisdom and knowledge in all things, God will show you which way to go. God is faithful. Stop being weary! It is not the will of God for you to always be exhausted and drained. Don’t allow the devil to steal your joy, your hope or your peace.

Philippians 4:7 ESV “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Enjoy the song “Tell It to Jesus”