Weariness in Perspective

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Weariness is normal, but it can derail or defeat us if we let it. As a teacher, my most trying and wearying times seem to come toward the end of the year, but I've noticed that the elation of finishing another year well overtakes the weariness at what seems like the last moment. It is elation at nearing the finish line that gives me the energy needed to complete the seemingly endless checkout tasks and paperwork that must be done before I can call it summer. Maybe it's because I'm an English teacher that I look for spiritual parallels everywhere, but I see the same principal at work in the life Paul. As he finished his journey here he seemed energized in looking forward to what lay ahead of him--namely, heaven and time with Christ. He also commented on finishing his race well. When I am weary with this life, I find encouragement in Paul's epistles. We have a God who is powerful to save and who supports us until we finish our races. Whether you are physically or spiritually or emotionally weary, be encouraged today by placing your weariness in perspective and praising the One who holds us in His hand (Matthew 11:28; Isaiah 40:31).

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