Dog Tired

Father, somedays I find myself just dog-tired with life. It is that kind of tired that penetrates beyond being sleepy, or lethargic. It is a weariness of spirit were I become weak and vulnerable to the temptations of the evil one.

I am reminded of the encouragement given Isaiah. "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not grow faint" (40:31).

Help me to understand that strength is born through struggle, that character is demonstrated in trials and even though we are down-trodden, discouraged and weary at our core; that we are never defeated in you. Through our weakness you give strength, through our hardships you give hope and through our trials you remind us that this world is not our home.