Overcoming Fatigue
Lent on the Run — Day 11
He gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” — Isaiah 40:29-31
Wow, what a weekend I just had. I just wrapped up the 2025 Shamrock Weekend, and I am drained. A weekend filled with all sorts of fun, from hanging at the Shamrock Expo to running the 8K to cheering for 3+ hours on Sunday. All this while enjoying the variety of party and celebration moments, and wow, do I feel like I ran a marathon—ever though I most assuredly did not.
Fatigue isn’t just physical, like it was this past weekend—and into this week. It can settle into our bones, our minds, and even our spirits. There are seasons when exhaustion takes over, and no amount of sleep or coffee seems to restore us. Isaiah speaks directly to this kind of weariness—not just the tiredness of a long run or a packed weekend but the deeper exhaustion of life’s demands. Even the strongest among us grow weary, but God promises renewal.
The key?
Waiting on the Lord. That doesn’t mean sitting idly; it means trusting, resting, and allowing God’s strength to fill the spaces where ours has run out. Runners know that endurance isn’t built by pushing through exhaustion but by training wisely—balancing effort with recovery. The same is true for our faith. Pushing through without seeking renewal leaves us burned out, but when we turn to God, we find the strength to keep going.
If you’re feeling drained—physically, emotionally, or spiritually—pause. Breathe (hmm seem to remember a devotion about that). Trust that God’s renewal is coming. Strength will rise again. And in time, you will run and not grow weary.
Reflect: Where do you need to slow down and trust in God’s renewal?
Lent Photo-A-Day
For the Whole Series
Don’t forget their will be no devotion on Sunday, keep tuned in for the series to continue on Monday.
You, sir, have all the right words…and hugs…when they’re most needed. I was actually going to quit the fill at the halfway mark and your presence, words, energy and uplifting (literally) spirit was the jolt I needed. I can’t thank you enough for your words, leadership and counsel. Mac love for you my man!