“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Galatians 6:9
What do mud, hay bales, and electricity have in common? Let me tell you. A few years ago, I ran a Tough Mudder race with some friends. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s a 5K obstacle course designed to test endurance, grit, and a willingness to embrace the mud. Picture this: waist-deep muck with the consistency of a warm milkshake, hay bales stacked 25 feet high that leave you caked in mud and straw, and an ice-cold water pit electrified with a current that zaps you if you linger too long. By the end, I was exhausted—muddy, bloody, and completely worn out. But crossing that finish line, medal in hand, was a feeling like no other.
Life can sometimes feel like a Tough Mudder, can’t it? We push through obstacles, get stuck in the muck, and wonder if we’ll ever reach the finish line. In Galatians 6:9, Paul reminds us to persevere in doing good because, in God’s perfect timing, we will reap a harvest—if we don’t give up. Doing good means serving others, sharing our faith, and showing God’s love to those around us. But let’s be honest: ministry can feel like a thankless job. We might catch ourselves thinking, “Is this even making a difference?” or “Does anyone notice how much I’m giving?” These thoughts can wear us down, tempting us to quit just before God’s harvest is ready.
The truth is, weariness is part of the journey. Throughout my ministry, there have been times of discouragement and disappointment. As pastors and leaders, we are asked to minister to all people. Sometimes, that difficult person can make us weary. But when we feel overwhelmed, Jesus invites us to come to Him—to rest, recharge, and be reminded that we don’t serve in our strength alone. If you’re on the verge of giving up, take a moment today to pause and reconnect with Christ. Ask Him to renew your passion and restore your stamina. He promises to equip us with all we need to finish the race.
Don’t let the mud of discouragement keep you stuck. Keep doing good. Keep trusting God’s timing. The harvest will come—maybe as a changed life, a strengthened faith, or the quiet joy of knowing you were faithful to God’s call. And when you cross that finish line, you’ll find that the reward was worth every weary step.
Today, if you’re weary, remember that Jesus sees you. Now is the time to keep going, in His strength!
~Steve
