Battle Fatigue
Have you ever been weary? Have you ever been exhausted to the point where you had difficulty choosing to move forward, staying where you were, or just simply falling backward? Many people have answered the call of Christ, and I do believe many have chosen this purposeful path. I also believe struggles naturally occur in this decision. Thayer defines weary as “to reduce or exhaust the physical strength of the body; to tire; to fatigue; as, to weary oneself with labor or traveling” (Thayer online, 2024). Thus, enduring battle fatigue is a reality for those who labor and find themselves “heavy laden” (Matthew 11:28-30, NKJV). But notice that one may become exhausted simply by the issues of life (Genesis 25:29). Others become weary based on their own sin (Genesis 19:11). But there are those who suffer due to no fault of sin, but because they strive to remain faithful to the Gospel. They find themselves under duress based solely on the claim that others follow the same Lord and the same love (2 Timothy 4:14-15). I believe this to form the harshest of fouls.
Constant battles instigated by the Brethren feel like active mortal wounds. Why might you ask? Because it is not meant to be this way. Paul states, “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10). The Holy Spirit directs Christians to love as Jesus loved (John 13:34-35). This platform is what builds joy in the hearts of those who serve the Lord! We rise each day and submit ourselves to His will (1 Corinthians 15:58). We find good in His Word and develop a strategic, proactive plan each day that will bring glory and honor to His name (Matthew 26:29).
Now, let’s admit, there is a battle raging. It battles for our souls (1 Peter 5:8). Truth is, we will all tire at some point. The question is, will it be for selfish reasons or because I have committed myself to that “sleep” where I can find rest for my soul (Hebrews 4:16). As always, God hands the choice. Choose wisely, we only get one chance. At the very least, do not become the foundation for someone else’s spiritual damage. God will hold it against you and hold it against me.
Think about these things,
Archie R. Green
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