Weariness in well-doing.
I. THE CONDITION OF WEARINESS IN WELL-DOING.
1. It is a feeling, not at present a change of action. The well-doing is continued in spite of weariness. Our moods vary, and we can scarcely be held to be responsible for them. The essential thing is that we do not cease working.
2. It is very different from being weary of well-doing. We may grow weary in our work and yet be most anxious for the success of it. Such weariness is a common condition. How often is the flesh weak while the spirit is willing! How often is the spirit, too, wearily cleaving to the dust, and pining for a Divine inspiration, like the hart thirsting and panting for the water-brooks!
II. THE EVIL OF THIS CONDITION.
1. It is distressing. The task over which we sing in the freshness of the morning becomes a burden to groan under when the evening finds us jaded and worn.
2. It is likely to make our work defective. We cannot row fast when the stream turns contrary to us, nor work effectively against the grain.
3. It may lead to the abandonment of our mission. Weariness may end in despair. If we have no joy in our work we shall be tempted to negligence.
III. THE CAUSES OF THIS CONDITION.
1. In ourselves.
2. Causes in our work.
IV. THE REMEDY FOR THIS WEARINESS.
1. If it comes from our own habits anal conditions, see that we have the rest and nourishment that our souls need. We must be more with God in prayer. Natural bodily rest may be needed too. A good holiday may be the best cure for a weariness that sadly troubles the soul of a conscientious toiler.
2. If the weariness comes from our work,
(2) remember that the harvest, though delayed, will surely be reaped in due time,—then "they that sow in tears shall reap in joy."—W.F.A.