Power for the Weary

The other day, my husband, Joe, spent the entire afternoon outdoors cleaning our duck pond, mowing the lawn, and tidying up our shed. When he came back indoors, he exclaimed, “I’m exhausted and can hardly move!” I had been cleaning house all day myself, so I had a pretty good idea of how he felt. Nevertheless, I told my husband that Scripture tells us, “Let the weak say, ‘I am strong.’” (Joel 3:10 NKJV) Joe laughed it off, but I told him that if he continued to voice his exhaustion and weakness—guess what?—he was going to feel more and more tired all the time, and he wouldn’t be able to accomplish anything for the rest of the day.

The prophet Isaiah received some startling revelation on this subject that has been encouraging God’s people for centuries. He wrote: “[The Lord] gives power to those who are tired and worn out; He offers strength to the weak.” (Isaiah 40:29 NLT) When you and I have reached our apparent limits, we can remind ourselves that God offers us His supernatural power and strength. But we have to ask Him for it, and receive it by faith. We can simply say: “Lord, I’m feeling tired, weary, and worn out right now. But I thank You for Your offer to revive me. I ask that You fill me afresh with Your power and Your strength. I believe I receive them right now, Lord, and I give You all the praise, in Jesus’ name!” Then, go about your business, and declare with confidence, “I am strong in the Lord!” (Ephesians 6:10)

With the Holy Spirit dwelling in you and me, and with God’s Word and promises stored in our hearts, we have access to heavenly resources in trying times that will enable us to live fruitful, productive, and energetic lives. Don’t settle for less than God’s very best in this area. Rise up and walk in the victory that belongs to you in Christ!