{Be Devoted} Feeling Overwhelmed?

Sometimes I become weary with life. Overwhelmed, stressed, frustrated… those are words that I frequently allow to describe my days. I think that Satan finds real pleasure in overwhelming us. There are many times when I just want to give up because I feel like a complete failure. But what a lie that is! Satan would absolutely love for me to throw myself a pity party and not do anything for the Lord because I’m “overwhelmed.” Nice excuse, right? He wants us to feel inadequate, pathetic, and weary. Weary of trying, being obedient, and doing good. And as those feelings began to flood my mind this week, I read Jeremiah 31. This chapter is full of promises and truths that constantly sustain and comfort me. One of my favorites is this, from Jeremiah 31:25, “For I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish.”

What hope this brings to my heart! When our souls are weary, when we’re feeling tired and overwhelmed, this is what God says to us. HE will satisfy our weary souls. HE will replenish our hearts when we so desperately need strength and hope to carry on. The more we think about ourselves and look for other things to bring us satisfaction, the more we will struggle and fight against our very nature. Galatians 6:9 says this, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

Recognize this: Satan doesn’t want you to do what God says. He doesn’t want you to be obedient to God’s word, he doesn’t want you to walk worthy of the Lord, and he doesn’t want you to make a difference. Yes, there are times when life is hard, messy, and tiring. But don’t give up. Don’t let Satan win. He has no power over you! Don’t grow weary in doing good – there is promise in perseverance! Find satisfaction in Christ. Seek His face for renewal and contentment. Find joy and strength in His word. That’s my encouragement not only to you all, but to myself this week.