3 Ways to Combat Spiritual Weariness

Weariness is usually more spiritual than physical. Even if we are physically exhausted, it is never too much of a problem until we become emotionally drained. Throughout the Word of God, we find encouragement for such times. Here are three things to remember when your spiritual life seems depleted.

Rest in God’s Sovereignty and Care

Emotional or spiritual weariness attacks us at the core of who we are; it also targets our trust in the Lord, but all through scripture, we are told that God is not only the creator but the sustainer of the universe. We often find ourselves exhausted because we are trying too hard to be the sustainer of our own little world, and anytime we try to be God, we will find ourselves overwhelmed. Not only does he sustain the universe, but he has promised to take care of us. He will give us the daily bread we need. We do not need to carry the weight of the world; we need to learn to trust the one who can.

Seek Strength in Christ’s Work and Example

Remember that Christ experienced weariness and trial during his ministry. When those times hit, he would find time to be alone with his Father. By doing so, he endured to the end and finished his ministry, even his death on the cross. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can find the strength we need. On top of that, much of our weariness can be exacerbated by our sinfulness. However, since he paid our penalty on the cross, he invites the weary and heavy laden to come to him. He tells us those who do so will find rest. Christ’s death on the cross is the ultimate source of strength and hope because it washes us clean of our sins, and Christ’s example shows us how to find strength when we are exhausted and disheartened.

Find Strength in the Body of Christ

Finally, our Father did not create us to walk alone. We need the support of fellow believers. We are to help bear each other’s burdens and encourage each other. There are multiple ways this can happen. You can listen to other believers who have had similar experiences. They can comfort you with the comfort they receive in their time of need. But most importantly, be sure to gather for corporate worship. Singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with brothers and sisters in Christ is a balm to the weary soul. You will know you are not alone. Also, sitting under the preaching of the Word is a means of grace to our souls.

Scripture tells us that he gives strength to the weary. It does not matter the source of weariness we face, whether it is the demands of life, the injustice of others against us, or the burden of our sinfulness. Jesus endured his exhaustion all the way to the cross by staying in close communion with his Father and through the power of the Holy Spirit. By dying for us on the cross, though our sins are like scarlet, we can be white as snow. With such a glorious Savior, we can trust in his sovereign care, follow his example, and find strength in the body of Christ. Come to him all you who are weary and heavy laden, and he will give you rest.

-D. Eaton