As a person of faith, the reality of spiritual fatigue is a condition that must be battled. As much hope and life our faith can produce, it is challenged by the responsibilities we carry, the sin we battle within ourselves, difficulties, pressures, etc. The bible talks often of the need for perseverance, patience, diligence, pressing on, etc...because the forces working against our alignment with Christ can push us to a point where we feel like throwing in the towel. It takes determination to press through difficulties in a way that seeks obedience to the Father in the face of our own thoughts that may be saying, "Why bother?"
Truthfully, at times, the question of "why bother?" can be an appealing pull. I mean, we live in a culture that feeds us a consistent stream of self edifying virtues: "Just live how you want." "Follow your heart." "Just be you." When we become fatigued, these self empowering rally cries can sound very appetizing. Seriously, why not bite on these "MeNuggets?" What harm can it really bring? We're not hurting anybody. It would be so much easier to live by the standards we set for ourselves and live according to how we feel.
The truth is, the pull of "Do what you feel" has been the tool of our spiritual enemy from the beginning. Using all things and situations to propagate the lie that "I matter most." He's infected culture with this lie under the banner of ENLIGHTENMENT. But it's deception.
1 Peter 5:6-9
6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
The enemy of our souls utilizes difficulties and suffering to devour us. He devours by misaligning us from our life force. His aim is to persuade us in turning from a God focused obedience to a me focused obedience. He knows that if he can shift our mindset that the rest will take care of itself.
Romans 8:5-6
5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
So why does it matter? Why keep going when we are tired? It matters because of DEATH. We keep going because LIFE is at stake. Jesus promised us this:
John 10:9-10
9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
Our lives matter. Our lives were paid for with Christ's life so we can truly live with Him. Though things may be difficult, though pressure may be mounting, our God reigns and lives within us. Just look at this powerful and relevant truth to us all:
John 16:33
33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
Are you spiritually fatigued? Don't bite on the " MeNugget." Don't give up. Don't give in. Keep the faith. Rest in Him. Doubt your doubt. Your God is faithful! You will not be overcome!