“Tired, Weary, & Frustrated”
The three words above can often describe a person that in their own words would say, “I’ve had it!” Sometimes the weight of responsibilities weighs a person down, but when additional pressure that comes from caring for children, an elderly or sick loved one is placed upon a worn-out body, life can really be tough. The moment when you feel you can’t take another step or if one more thing to goes wrong is all to familiar. But you’re not alone even when you feel alone.
Elijah, one of the greatest prophets, reached a breaking point. After a miraculous victory on Mount Carmel, Elijah’s fear of Queen Jezebel’s threats sent him into hiding in the wilderness. Exhausted and defeated, he sat under a tree and prayed, “I have had enough, Lord” (I Kings 19:4). He was tired, weary, frustrated, and ready to give up. That’s how we feel when overwhelmed with mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual fatigue.
But then God came! Elijah wasn’t chastised for his weariness. Instead, God met him exactly where he was. Through the gentle provision of an angel, God gave Elijah food, water, and rest. Then the Lord invited him to a place where his soul and Spirit could be renewed. On Mount Horeb, Elijah didn’t encounter God in the earth – shaking wind, the fire, or earthquake, but in a gentle whisper (I Kings 19:11-12).
If you feel you’ve reached the end of your rope and your mind is saying “Go,” but your body says “I can’t take another step, just remember, you’re not alone. Got sees and understands your pain and frustration. He knows your heartache and sorrows too. He will never ask you to carry your burdens alone. Instead, He invites you to “Cast all your anxiety (cares) upon him because he cares for you” (I Peter 5:7).
If these words describe where you are today, may I encourage you to stop, take a few deep breaths, and simply rest in the Lord’s provision. Surrender the exhaustion, the frustration, and the worry. He knows exactly what you need and desires to renew your strength.
Pastor Carnes
