2 Thessalonians 3:12–13: “Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread. But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.”

July 7th, 2022 by Pastor Ed in devotional

The hard-working believers in Thessalonica were tired of having to support the lazy; and as a result, compassion fatigue was moving them to give up all charity. They were struggling so severely, they had come to a point of weariness and discouragement. Paul was encouraging them not to get discouraged when they saw other believers not doing their share of the work, but simply continue doing what they could and leave the rest to the Lord. Paul said something similar to the Galatians: “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Gal. 6:9). Again, to the believers in Corinth he said, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Cor. 15:58). Doing good for others can be hard work. Going the extra mile and helping others, even being kind to a difficult person, can wear you out.

Every person alive has experienced this. When we are emotionally or physically fatigued from life’s trials or illnesses, fear can take over where faith once flourished. Pro-football coach Vince Lombardi put up a sign for the Green Bay Packers that said: “Fatigue makes cowards of us all.” Paul told the Thessalonians, and us, that in such times, we are not to simply be more spiritual or do more for God, but just the opposite; we are to rest in God’s love and favor. Rest and relaxation are part of God’s design to keep us healthy physically, mentally, and spiritually. Spiritual rest is more than just resting on a certain day of the week.

Jesus said in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (NIV). Jesus and Paul were talking about both physical and spiritual perseverance, continuing to be faithful even when things get difficult. Getting a little tired is natural; but we must be on the watch for getting burned out. If we start feeling burned out, that’s a sure sign we need to go to God and find rest in Him. In God’s timing, we will reap a harvest, if we don’t give up.

“LORD, help us to stay connected to You and live in Your power as we walk through this day.”