Preaching on Tiredness: We know we will reap

Our text from Galatians 6:9 offers both a warning and a powerful encouragement: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This verse speaks directly to the challenges we face and the promise of reward for perseverance.

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INTRODUCTION:

A. We live in difficult, critical, and dangerous times, and this causes many to grow weary and discouraged. The pressures and uncertainties of the world can weigh heavily on our hearts and spirits, leading to fatigue and a sense of being overwhelmed.

B. Many Christians have left the church and have strayed; others still continue, though they stagger, as if carrying a very heavy load. The journey of faith is not always easy. Some fall away under the weight of life's burdens, while others persevere but struggle with exhaustion. This stands in contrast to Jesus' comforting words, "My burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30).

C. This is why the apostle Paul exhorts us not to grow weary—to become weary, to be exhausted, to faint (Luke 18:1; 2 Corinthians 4:1; 2 Thessalonians 3:13). The Greek words used here convey a sense of losing strength and giving in to exhaustion. It is even used of the Lord in His physical weariness in John 4:6.

D. Do not faint—not to give in to evil, become cowardly, lose heart, or misbehave. This exhortation goes beyond mere physical tiredness; it speaks to a spiritual fatigue that can lead us to compromise our faith and abandon the path of righteousness.

I. THE DEVIL IS ON THE PROWL. 1 PETER 5:8.

A. According to those who study animal behavior, the lion hunts in various ways. The lion, a powerful predator, employs different strategies to capture its prey.

B. Sometimes it hides to surprise its prey when it is at watering holes, sometimes it simply takes advantage of certain situations when it finds it asleep, and other times it pursues in a pack and eats the first one it catches. These diverse hunting methods highlight the relentless and opportunistic nature of the lion.

C. Brethren, as we know, the Devil presents himself to us as a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Peter's vivid imagery warns us of the constant danger we face from our spiritual adversary, who seeks to destroy our faith and lead us astray.

D. Thus, the apostle Paul advises us not to grow weary. The Devil does not tire; he prowls after us every day. Satan's efforts to undermine our faith are unceasing. Our weariness can make us vulnerable to his attacks.

E. Peter tells us here that we must always be alert, because our enemy Satan does not sleep; he is always on the prowl, prowling around each one of us. Vigilance is essential in our spiritual battle. We must be aware of Satan's schemes and resist his temptations.

F. The Devil knows he has little time left, so he waits for someone to get discouraged or tired; he wants someone to give up in the Christian race (Revelation 12:12; 17). Knowing his time is short, Satan intensifies his efforts to deceive and defeat believers, targeting those who are weary and vulnerable.

II. WHAT MAKES US TIRED?

Many factors can contribute to our spiritual weariness.

A. When others disappoint us (Psalm 69:1-4). David's lament speaks of feeling overwhelmed and abandoned, like being sunk in deep mire (swamp), a symbol of calamities and deadly dangers (Psalm 40:2). Disappointment from those we trust can be deeply discouraging.

B. David was hated without a cause.

1. Psalm 69:7-9. Even his family was against him; brothers, being a Christian has never been well regarded by unbelievers. Opposition and rejection, even from those closest to us, can be a source of weariness.

2. Christ said that a Christian's enemies will be those of his own household (Matthew 10:36). This difficult reality underscores the potential for conflict and discouragement even within families.

3. Paul said that we are the scum of the world, the refuse of all (1 Corinthians 4:13). The world's disdain and misunderstanding of believers can be emotionally and spiritually draining.

C. Psalm 69:13-14. David was tired but cried out to God for help. Psalm 69:30-33. Despite the mockery they made of him (v. 9). By praying and fasting (v. 10-12). David resolved to continue praying (v. 13). He did not faint. David's example reminds us that even in our weariness, turning to God in prayer is our source of strength and perseverance.

D. David's request was that God answer him (v. 13, 16-17). He asks that God look upon him and not hide his face from him. David appeals to these requests:

1. To God's mercy (v. 13, 16). We too can appeal to God's compassion and loving-kindness in our times of weariness.

2. And to the truth that God would not leave him in his distress (v. 33). We can trust in God's faithfulness and His promise to never abandon His children.

E. We also grow weary when some brothers disappoint us.

1. 2 Corinthians 11:26. When some fail to live a Christian life, they cause others to become discouraged. The inconsistencies and failings of fellow believers can be a source of sadness and weariness.

2. 2 Corinthians 2:5-7. The case of the fornicator in 1 Corinthians 5. This is one that had caused sadness. Sin within the church can be deeply disheartening and contribute to a sense of weariness.

F. Another thing that discourages us is when we ourselves fail; this also causes us to become weary and discouraged.

1. Psalm 38:3-8. When we sin, there is always a feeling of guilt for having offended God. David felt guilty (v. 5). Like an infected wound that is not given the necessary care. Sins are deadly and painful wounds, even those we believe to be the slightest, if neglected can have fatal consequences when repentance is lacking. The burden of our own sin and the resulting guilt can lead to significant spiritual weariness.

2. The problem is that many believe God will not forgive their sin. But is there anything God cannot forgive us for? This doubt can compound our weariness and lead to despair.

3. David, tired of suffering, lays his complaint before the Lord and asks for help (Psalm 38:17-18). He confesses his wickedness. Let us confess our sins and God will forgive us (vv. 21-22; 1 John 1:7-9). Confession and repentance are vital steps in finding forgiveness and release from the weariness of sin.

III. THE CONFUSION CAUSED BY FALSE DOCTRINES.

A. False doctrine is another factor that discourages us (2 Corinthians 11:1-4). The apostle Paul's concern was that they be confused by other false teachings that would lead them astray.

B. It's the same today; there is much confusion due to different doctrines (Galatians 1:6-9). Let us not pay attention to new false doctrines. The proliferation of conflicting beliefs and teachings can be mentally and spiritually exhausting, leading to doubt and discouragement.

Preaching on Tiredness: We know we will reap

CONCLUSION:

A. To overcome weariness:

1. James 4:7. We must resist the devil. Active resistance against Satan's attacks is crucial in maintaining our spiritual strength.

2. Cast all our anxiety upon God (1 Peter 5:7; Psalm 55:22). God invites us to release our burdens and worries to Him, finding rest and peace in His care.

3. Consider Christ's example. We have not suffered as he did (1 Peter 5:9). Reflecting on Christ's ultimate sacrifice and endurance can give us perspective and strength in our own struggles.

B. Our supplication must be very insistent (Psalm 69:1). Those who suffer reproach for doing good can with humble confidence leave it in God's hands, who will make their righteousness shine as a light (Psalm 37:6). Persistent prayer and trust in God's justice are vital in overcoming weariness caused by opposition.

C. For our labor is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Our efforts in serving God and doing good have eternal significance and will ultimately be rewarded.

D. Brethren, let us not grow weary, knowing that we shall reap (harvest) in the time of harvest. The word "if" is conditional; if we do not grow weary, we shall reap. The promise of a future harvest is contingent upon our perseverance. We must not give up before the appointed time of reward.

E. God's promises are for those who strive and triumph. The Christian life is a race that requires endurance. Let us run with perseverance, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, knowing that the reward for those who do not grow weary is eternal life with Him. Amen.

Preaching on Tiredness: We know we will reap