Davids Daily Dose

Weariness

Have you ever said to yourself, “There’s more here than I can possibly do?”

Things came to that point last week when I realized I’d exhausted my ability to help and encourage others. It felt like everyone wanted a piece of me, but I had nothing left to give.

Jesus and his disciples experienced this. At times, so many people were vying for their attention, they couldn’t stop long enough to eat! But He said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31 (NIV)

Now we’re talking!

So they slipped off by themselves in a boat to an isolated place. But people figured out where they were going and took a shortcut–getting there ahead of them. The first thing Jesus sees when they land is yet another crowd.

Can’t you people just leave us alone?! We’re tired. We’re overwhelmed. We don’t have anything left to give. Please, go away.

What I’d say if I was in the boat with Jesus

But that’s not what He said

Christ had compassion on them, when He saw they were like “sheep without a shepherd.” In other words, He recognized how much they needed Him, and began to “teach them many things.” Mark 6:34 (NIV)

Somehow, Jesus knows the path to spiritual rest. It’s the only explanation for how He could keep giving and giving to the “pressure cooker” throng. He dealt with ruthless adversaries, and got by with little sleep or solitude. Yet Christ apparently never said, “I could just go back to being a carpenter.”

Confession: one month into my new leadership role, I’ve said to myself, “I could just go back to being a music teacher.” But, then again, I’m inspired by the single-minded devotion of Jesus to His mission–to lay down his life for His sheep.

For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.

2 Corinthians 1:5 (NIV)

Nicola, from Eagle Sight shared a great post a few weeks ago called Running on Nearly Empty, Her astute point was that waiting until our giving tank is full, before overflowing to others, is a poor strategy. Like Jesus, we should lower the spigot. Please see the excellent illustration below, which I “borrowed” from Nicola’s post.

Photo from Nicola at Eagle Sight

Kind reader, God can keep flowing through us, even when we’re almost empty.

He knows how to rejuvenate.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Jesus, Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

Thank you for reading. 🙏❤️ prayers and love.

Photo by Andrew Neel on Pexels.com

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53 responses to “Weariness”

  1. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    “Jesus can renew our strength as we go.”

    Amen, brother! You condensed what I wanted to say into eight powerful words.

    Like

  2. jesusluvsall Avatar
    jesusluvsall

    I have experienced moments that were some of the best in ministry when I thought I could not even go due to feeling too drained. Jesus can renew our strength as we go.

    Liked by 1 person

  3. God Still Speaks Avatar
    God Still Speaks

    Amen!

    Liked by 1 person

  4. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Your excellent prayer is a summary of everything I wanted to say with this post, Chris. Thank you for adding your thoughts. I appreciate your prayers and our kinship in the Lord. As you say, blessings!

    Liked by 1 person

  5. Chris G Thelen Avatar
    Chris G Thelen

    I hope you have felt the prayers of the faithful lifting you up as you dive into your new leadership role. Thank you for this post. It has encouraged me, and so many based on the comments. It reminds me of so many who are out there fighting unknown battles that are emptying their tanks. They wear a strong face, but inside they are empty. As Jeffrey King pointed out in his comment, even a small act of kindness can encourage someone who may feel depleted. May God encourage all the faithful who feel depleted. May He fill them with His wisdom as they learn to trust Him. May He guide them with His wisdom. May He give them moments of rest, moments of solitude to feel the presence of the Spirit of God.

    Liked by 1 person

  6. Chris G Thelen Avatar
    Chris G Thelen

    What a great response to shut the door and take a moment to pray and praise. A good reminder to reorient our mindset toward God. Thanks.

    Liked by 2 people

  7. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Me too. 😊

    Like

  8. Angie Avatar
    Angie

    I have to stop snatching them back though. Lol

    Liked by 1 person

  9. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    I feel the same way about your pot hole series, Angie. And, I see you just published a new installment! I’m tapping over to read it now. ❤️

    I’ve had conversations like the one you mentioned with God before. He’s a great burden bearer—when I let Him.

    Liked by 1 person

  10. Angie Avatar
    Angie

    It’s like you caught me on tape. I had a very overwhelming week where I told God I can’t take another thing. He spoke to my heart and said. Good! Now put it down and let me carry it!

    Liked by 2 people

  11. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Indeed, Mthobisi. Thank you for reading, following, and commenting. I often find it easier to do something than to simply trust God. 🙏His best to you!

    Like

  12. Mthobisi Magagula Avatar
    Mthobisi Magagula

    Amen David brother. What an interesting and encouraging blog post sir. I agree that when we have nothing left to give, the wise thing, it is to just seek help from Jesus and pray that he gives us strength and healing♥🙏

    Liked by 2 people

  13. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Thank you, Beth. I’ve heard great things about The Chosen series. I need to watch it. Thank you for your kind words of encouragement!

    Liked by 1 person

  14. Beth Alisan Avatar
    Beth Alisan

    David, It’s a wise man indeed who draws his inspiration from Jesus and knows his good Shephard will guide him into all things both rest and work. May others be inspired by your example. Watching the series the Chosen has helped me better grasp the magnitude of the demand the crowds placed on Jesus and his disciples which in turn helped me better appreciate this post.

    Liked by 3 people

  15. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    🤗

    Liked by 1 person

  16. BerryBunch.family Avatar
    BerryBunch.family

    Amen. Yes!

    ‘what can my prayers possibly accomplish?’ suggests the enemy….

    Well, quite a lot actually!

    Liked by 1 person

  17. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Thank you for your heartfelt and most helpful response, Andy B. Weekends are a bit more restful these days, as I have no lesson plans to write. However, I find myself thinking about first thing Monday morning.😬

    I stumbled upon something last night, though—the power of praying for others who are in a similar situation. Remember how things improved for Job when he prayed for his friends?

    I’m praying and pulling for you, my brother!

    Thanks for your friendship and support. 🙏May God continue to bless the Berry Bunch!

    Liked by 1 person

  18. BerryBunch.family Avatar
    BerryBunch.family

    Learning to pace ourselves is tough

    At a friends licencing service two evenings ago (becoming the vicar at a new church) he saw 2 weeks of work by the middle of his first week – based on the people who welcomed him, and shared their need for his input over just two hours of that licencing/welcoming service.

    He is having to remind the church he is working only 50% of the working week

    He is such a giving man. His wife and he are having to seek God’s voice on what God’s choices are for them.

    The wisdom I shared with them (not mine, but it’s good to share) is to seek God for the God stuff, not the good stuff.

    The enemy loves to get us doing good things….but it’s the God things we need to keep our focus on.

    That’s why I stopped leading worship when we launched our radio station – I ‘could’ do it, but I knew my focus would be spread too far and too thin.

    As Bilbo Baggins said, “I feel like butter spread over too much bread”.

    I pray the Holy Spirit guides you to all He is asking you to do

    I say this as we near the end of a 36 hour break…I easily have the capacity to work myself to exhaustion.

    “Go with the peace”

    “Learn to say no so that others can learn to say yes”

    Those last two are definitely two I use that I don’t remember hearing anywhere else.

    Keep on keeping buddy.

    I truly feel your pain and struggle!!

    Andy.

    Liked by 2 people

  19. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Thank you. Your comment brought tears, which do not come to me easily. I know I’m on the right path—the one God has for me—yet the learning curve feels steep. But, like you, I’ve survived a lot, and will keep going with the strength the Lord provides. 🙏His richest blessings to you.

    Liked by 2 people

  20. Don't Lose Hope Avatar
    Don’t Lose Hope

    This reminds me of the verse which says “they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.” I also have had times when I have felt completely drained and overwhelmed – and yet I’ve felt God called me to keep on going. Small acts of self-care (like going for a walk) can sometimes help a little. But, like you, I’ve found the greatest help comes from simply allowing myself to withdraw and be with God.
    As an aside, I’m sure God wants you in your new role at school!!!

    Liked by 6 people

  21. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    I’m so pleased to hear this, Manu! When I first saw Nicola’s post I knew it was truth, but I didn’t yet realize how it fit with my situation. I love how friends here on Word Press inspire and encourage one another. God’s best to you!

    Liked by 1 person

  22. Manu Avatar
    Manu

    David, this and Nicola’s post come at a time for me when I have been quite stretched with people reaching out. And it helped me have the right perspective. Thank you 🙏🏽

    Liked by 4 people

  23. K.L. Hale Avatar
    K.L. Hale

    Oh, that’s so wonderful, David! I’ll pray for everyone! I’m in your corner! Of God’s huge world!

    Liked by 1 person

  24. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Well stated, Gary. It’s keeping (or recognizing) my connection with God—when things get overwhelming—that’s still a work in progress. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

    Liked by 1 person

  25. Gary Fultz Avatar
    Gary Fultz

    I find my reserve is tied to My connection with the Lord as well as the physical weariness much of the time. I often need to check my “listening ability” to the Spirit or my “response-ability (responsibility) is lacking.
    As I get older….another discussion.

    Liked by 2 people

  26. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Thank you, Betty. I am enjoying the weekends, now more than ever. It also helps that I no longer need to make lesson plans on Saturday or Sunday.

    Liked by 1 person

  27. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Nice! Thanks, Majik.

    Like

  28. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Yes, God is both graceful and amazing. I am also blessed to work for a head principal who is a strong Christian. I appreciate your support and encouragement, Karla!

    Liked by 1 person

  29. K.L. Hale Avatar
    K.L. Hale

    You’re welcome ☺️. I don’t know about wise, but I’ll sure be your encouragement! I’m an ear whenever you need! It warms my heart that you’re a Christ-following leader! I’d definitely appreciate working for you. God is leading you! I fail so much; isn’t it wonderful to serve such a graceful and amazing Father? God bless you, my friend!

    Liked by 1 person

  30. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    You’re right, as usual, Jeff😊 I’m learning on the job, something that can feel quite unforgiving. But it’s actually not THAT bad. Like you said, there’s a learning curve. I’m discovering how to triage and lead more effectively. I appreciate you, brother! Blessings.

    Liked by 1 person

  31. God Still Speaks Avatar
    God Still Speaks

    Praying for that calmer week for us both too!

    Liked by 1 person

  32. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    I had a closed door break this week, too! It’s not easy to always know where my physical/emotional/spiritual gas gauge sits. Thank you for stopping by. 🙏Prayers for a calmer week—for both of us! God Bless.

    Liked by 1 person

  33. Jeffrey H. King Avatar
    Jeffrey H. King

    This reminds me of an article I posted years ago, Running a Surplus. I’ve often found that doing kindnesses to others often puts more back in the tank than what was taken out. I know that it can’t always work that way when “everyone wants a piece of you,” but perhaps the small kindnesses can help fill your tank. That’s why, especially when I was on the road, I’d try to find small things to do – holding a door for someone, putting a good word in for a really good waitress, complimenting a mom on her child’s behavior, etc. The smiles I got always helped me to run a surplus.

    I think you might still be climbing the proverbial learning curve. Once you find your rhythm you’ll have an easier time of doling out pieces of yourself! You have a kind, gentle soul. That and your faith will make you successful in your new mission. No doubt about it!

    Liked by 2 people

  34. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Thank you for your valuable input, brother. The biblical examples you mentioned are great contributions!Pastor Pete mentioned the widow, but the woman with the sick daughter is also a great example. Many of the folk who need ministry have no idea how low the minister’s tank is. They just need help. 🙏May God’s Grace be sufficient for us to serve. And we know that it is! God Bless, brother. 🙏🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

    Liked by 1 person

  35. God Still Speaks Avatar
    God Still Speaks

    The timing of this post is just what I needed! This week has been non-stop at my office and I had moments where I wondered if I bit off more than I could chew. Then I “got in the boat” (actually shut the door to my office, and got down on my knees and prayed and praised.) I also asked God for His continued guidance in what I’m doing when I felt overwhelmed. Thank you brother!

    Liked by 3 people

  36. Alan Kearns Avatar
    Alan Kearns

    Good post David! There are times when we may be literally running on fumes, but God can still use us if we are willing. This reminds me of the time when Jesus and the disciples went to the seaside for a break, but He still ended up ministering to a needy woman and her sick daughter (Matthew 15:21-28). I am also reminded of the poor widow who was really running on empty until she met Elijah; through His prophet God used the widow’s desperate state to bless a whole village! (1 Kings 17:8-16). What an amazing God we serve David! God bless you and your family today brother

    Liked by 2 people

  37. seeingliketheeagle Avatar
    seeingliketheeagle

    That’s not a problem at all David. Share and share alike I say 😊

    Liked by 1 person

  38. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Thank you for your kind and wise words of encouragement. I’ve hit the ground running, but am learning so many new things at the same time. God’s grace, wisdom, and strength is essential. I appreciate your support and prayers.

    God Bless!

    Liked by 1 person

  39. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    It’s great to collaborate, Nicola! I apologize for not contacting you first—for photo sharing. I enjoyed your post today, as well!

    Liked by 1 person

  40. K.L. Hale Avatar
    K.L. Hale

    David, I’m praying for you. The job will drain you. Walking in the Will is weary. Although, wondrous! Like you, I would come home exhausted! Those of us that give everything will feel drained. To the surprise of many, I’m more of an introvert. I had to have my quiet time alone with God to renew my spirit, just as Jesus did. When I “triaged” at the school, I felt like I let some situations “down”; but through prayer and wise choosing of the team members who helped me on my mission, I could hand off some of my E.R. Duties. But most times, it fell right at my feet. Just as it does with you. God, I’m breaking the alabaster jar, giving it all to you. Help me, with wisdom, to seek that which matters most, in the moment. The “adult” issues have to go to the back burner when I would remind the adults, with gentle love and compassion, that schools were created for kids; not for their employment. I knew not everyone would love me. But I knew I could show God’s love to everyone. To this day, many former teachers would share that I always put the kids first, but gave them all grace. I hand it out like chocolate chip cookies! Each time I would tell them, “I’m human and I’m going to fail!” But together, we can achieve great things. The behaviors, home issues, teachers going through personal crises (just as I had happen to me), budget, something in this hall, no wait! Report to the cafeteria immediately! No, wait, get to the front office there’s an emergency! Thank goodness God giggles! Each day at 2pm I had a coffee break with the head custodian. The cooks, the aides, they were all my dearest friends, too. I began at a young age,…15 years later I still had too much to do, so I did my best, gave God the rest. Each day now, if I lose my sense of “purpose”, I’m reminded that he will continue to fill my cup—even if it’s only 1/4 filled and it’s all I can muster for that day, HE keeps pouring and pouring. Rest well, dear friend. You’re a blessing to so many! May God fill your soul, in this present moment to carry on. May the chosen ones around you rise to their Spirit-led calling—and before you know it, this team of warriors will guide with wisdom. I’m so proud of you, David. Even more so, God is moving through you, working through you….many blessings and prayers as you rest and refill!

    Liked by 3 people

  41. seeingliketheeagle Avatar
    seeingliketheeagle

    I’m so glad my post encouraged you David and thanks for sharing. Bless you.

    Liked by 1 person

  42. Majik Avatar
    Majik

    Your post inspired this haiku. https://lousyhaiku.blog/2023/09/09/lousy-haiku-289/

    Liked by 1 person

  43. Betty Avatar
    Betty

    David, I have thought many times that God resting on the 7th day of creation was a prescription for balance in our lives. Good luck in your new leadership role!

    Liked by 3 people

  44. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    I love your illustration, Pastor Pete! It brings mind the gospel song 🎶 “Little is Much When God is In It.” Thank you for sharing! God Bless.

    Liked by 4 people

  45. pastorpete51 Avatar
    pastorpete51

    Thanks for sharing this from a week of nearly running empty. The multiplying of the widow’s last handful of flour and few drops of oil encourage me on those days.

    Liked by 6 people

  46. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Well said. Thank you for sharing. I appreciate your prayer, as sometimes it’s been hard to know when to work and when to keep going. God’s best to you. I know that’s the only way he rolls. 🤗

    Liked by 3 people

  47. ladysheepdog Avatar
    ladysheepdog

    When the bell rings the boxers are to take a break and drink some water, get their wounds attended to, get the sweat wiped off…..and then the bell rings again, and its back to the center of the ring….I’m trying to pay attention to when its time to step off the battle field and take a break and get refreshed/renewed and when to just bow up and keep pressing on because the battle is not over yet.

    Sometimes the biggest task is learning where our limits are and seeing where He’s stepping in and giving us supernatural strength and when He says its ok to take a break and rest. My prayer is for you to see the difference and function accordingly. Well done good and faithful servant seems to be appropriate.

    Liked by 6 people

  48. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    You bring so much to the table with your insightful, and scriptural comments, Bridget. They are often posts in themselves! I’ve enjoyed your series on Jehoshaphat. Though I find his name hard to spell. 😊😬
    Thank you for your prayer, as well. The week got better, and I’m learning how to better triage the needs of those I lead. God Bless you, sister.

    Liked by 2 people

  49. Bridget A. Thomas Avatar
    Bridget A. Thomas

    I was nodding my head in agreement throughout this post. Jesus is the only one who can fill us. And just this morning I was reflecting on Psalm 54:4 – “Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.” I see a theme here. 🤔 Thank you for the encouragement. I needed it. And I pray Jesus flows through you and rejuvenates you in all that you are dealing with in this season. 🙏

    Liked by 4 people

  50. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    Well said, in typical BG fashion. Thank you, brother! How true.

    Liked by 1 person

  51. BG Avatar
    BG

    Sometimes we need to come apart before we come apart!

    Liked by 5 people

  52. davidsdailydose Avatar
    davidsdailydose

    You’re welcome. Thanks for following, reading, and commenting. God Bless!

    Liked by 2 people

  53. Innerdialects Avatar
    Innerdialects

    Needed this, thank you David

    Liked by 1 person

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