WEDNESDAY'S WORD - FATIGUE - Sadell Bradley - 03/01/17 New Life Covenant Cincinnati

"Our fatigue is often caused not by work; but by worry, frustration and resentment."  Dale Carnegie 

Everybody knows what FATIGUE is: extreme tiredness, typically resulting from mental or physical exertion or illness. Fatigue is a reduction in the efficiency of a muscle or group after prolonged activity. It is the lessening of one's response to, or enthusiasm for something, typically as a result of over exposure to it. I've often thought about and experienced the first definition. According to the International Labor Organization, "Americans work 137 more hours per year than Japanese workers, 260 more hours per year than British workers, and 499 more hours per year than French workers."  That's just work, not family life or extra-curricular activities. We are tired, ya'll, but it's so pervasive and stressful that it's become the norm. For more information on this sad phenomenon, CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE.

Jesus said, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30) He gives the solution for the mental and emotional fatigue that often accompanies an over-stressed life. A tired soul will find its rest in the presence of the Savior. So just take a few breaths, now. In His presence is the fullness of joy.  At His right hand are pleasures ever more. (Psalm 16:11) The soul that is weary from sin can repent and turn away from evil and find times of refreshing from the presence of the LORD. (Acts 3:19) Any time invested with a focus on Him brings life, joy, peace and rest. It also brings wisdom and instruction as He makes known to us the path that leads to life, and guides with His eye upon us. (Psalm 16:11; 32:8)

 

I love the presence of God! when alone or in corporate worship.  Even as I write this Word, I can feel an infusion of His grace and strength. I've gotten up early with excitement in all kinds of weather to gather with the assembly of the saints. There is an anticipation of the Holy Spirit's move, what the Lord will say through His Word, and a joy of fellowship with those we love

. The psalmist said, "Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere." (Psalm 84:10) However, in dry seasons, that anticipation can turn to the second definition of fatigue: the lessening of one's response to or enthusiasm for...the presence of God.  I want to encourage you...don't let times in His presence become perfunctory:carried out with a minimum of effort or reflection. Keep your awe and wonder at His beauty, majesty and power.  Let your embrace of your brothers and sisters in Christ be genuine, vulnerable and transparent. Don't let fatigue rob you. Open yourself to another infusion of His grace and allow yourself the freedom for which He gave His life. (Gal. 5:1)   

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