When the Journey Becomes Weary

I lift my eyes toward the mountains. Where will my help come from? (2) My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. –Psalm 121.1-2 (CSB)

I fell in love with East Tennessee a few years ago when I took a small group of college students there for a winter trip. I had not been, but my pastor at the time had lived there for close to 20 years. Together, we developed an itinerary and he offered to join us for a portion of the trip. He also suggested that we hike one of the trails in the National Park. With him as the leader of the hiking expedition, we began the journey. I was excited for the hike and thought I was better prepared than I ended up being—after all, I hiked a portion of the Brecon Beacons in South Wales and survived. I started the hike with great excitement and enthusiasm. However, as the elevation increased my breathing became labored. The temperature and humidity also shot up and I was miserable. With each step, I grew weary and was ready to quit. I feared my heart would stop if I didn’t. 
 
There are times when our journey with Jesus becomes weary. With each day that passes, we grow increasingly tired and discouraged. We know that Jesus has called the weary to himself (Mt. 11.28-30) and so we draw near, but the rest he promised seems elusive. Yet, the call remains the same: draw near to Jesus. So we continually draw near—day after day, knowing that he will provide that which he has promised.
 
In those seasons when rest seems elusive and relief is not in sight, what is our plea? What is our response? Some throw their hands up in frustration and say: “Surely, God has abandoned me and so I will abandon him.” Others, however, echo the words of Job: “Even if he kills me, I will hope in him” (Job 13.15). We might would say: “Even if he has abandoned me, I will still keep trusting him.”
 
Dear friend, God sees your faithfulness in following Jesus, and he has not forgotten where you are. He knows you and your location. He knows your struggles and he understands them (Heb. 4.15). You may be weary. You may be ready to throw in the towel. Let me encourage: Lift your eyes to the mountains and know that your hope comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not delay; he will work in his perfect time.
 
I will tell you of Your wonders, sing of Your grace
The God of creation knows me by name
The Lord is faithful
Yesterday, now and always, always.
“Always” by Chris Tomlin

For Reflection
Read Psalm 121.1-2, Matthew 11.28-30, Job 13.15; Hebrews 4.15-16.
 
What do these verses show you about God’s character?
 
How do these verses help you relate to the Lord Jesus in a season of weariness? 
 
How might you encourage a friend or loved one who has grown weary in his/her journey with Jesus?
 
Pray
Pray and ask God to encourage your heart as you follow him. Ask him to help you remember the source of your hope and help in all seasons of life.
 
Father, I thank you that you have created all things and that you know exactly what I’m going through. When I’m tired, show me how to rest in you. When I’m weary, help me trust in your sustaining hand. Thank you that are my help in all things. In Jesus’ name, Amen.