Strengthened by the Weight

Strengthened by the Weight

by Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes

 

“If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, come to me and I will give you rest”

(Matthew 11:28, CEV).

 

I have two daughters who ran track throughout high school. The youngest continues to run as a collegiate athlete. She often complains about the challenges of her sport while having to balance classwork and the demands of student life. I try not to smirk when I think to myself, “Oh honey, you have no idea.” However, she does present a relevant illustration of what it means to workout with endurance. Sometimes I have the privilege of watching my daughter train with her team. They practice running uphill, lifting weights and they often do speed-drills wearing weighted vests. When these athletes cross the finish line as victors, their vigorous practice sessions are truly appreciated.

Take a moment to reflect on this reality: Sometimes God allows periods of waiting and or challenges in life which includes our writing careers. We often feel like we have strapped on weighted vests of doubt and discouragement.

Like a good coach, God allows seasons of testing so we will be strong and victorious during actual tests and trials. The Lord may also call us to give our burdens of worries, problems and or obstacles to him in a step of faith.

Today we can decide to work relentlessly to succeed as proficient writers.  If we put our trust in God, we can also rest from our worries and challenges. God will strengthen us with the weight of waiting as he provides us with hope and endurance.

 

Lord, I’m often worn down, heavy-laden, and flat-out exhausted. Please refresh me and help me to let go of the burdens you should be carrying. Help me to be obedient in developing my inner man through tests and trials. Bless me to enjoy resting in your strength as I build my endurance. Bless me as I rest in your strength. Amen.

 

 

 

Katherine is a counselor, consultant, author, and owns an event-planning business. Her  art and writing are distinguished by awards including the New York Mayor’s Contribution to the Arts, Outstanding Resident Artist of Arizona, and Foundations Awards at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference.  Katherine loves speaking to groups, delivering messages with quick wit and real-life stories. Connect at https://godslittleblackdress.com/ or https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Little-Black-Dress-Women/dp/1365056163