Exhaustion means that our vital energies are completely worn out and spent. Spiritual exhaustion is never the result of sin, but of service. Whether or not you experience exhaustion will depend on where you get your supplies. Jesus said to Peter, “Feed My sheep,” but He gave him nothing with which to feed them (John 21:17). The process of being made broken bread and poured-out wine means that you have to be the nourishment for other people’s souls until they learn to feed on God. They must drain you completely— to the very last drop. But be careful to replenish your supply, or you will quickly be utterly exhausted.

Until others learn to draw on the life of the Lord Jesus directly, they will have to draw on His life through you. You must literally be their source of supply, until they learn to take their nourishment from God. We owe it to God to be our best for His lambs and sheep, as well as for Him.Have you delivered yourself over to exhaustion because of the way you have been serving God? If so, then renew and rekindle your desires and affections.

Examine your reasons for service. Is your source based on your own understanding or is it grounded on the redemption of Jesus Christ? Continually look back to the foundation of your love and affection and remember where your Source of power lies. You have no right to complain, “O Lord, I am so exhausted.” He saved and sanctified you to exhaust you. Be exhausted for God, but remember that He is your supply. “All my springs are in you” (Psalm 87:7).

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February 9 2015

Journal Entry for Today-JDV

Lord, how does this devotional synch up with one of my favorite scriptures? “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 be faint.” Should we expect to become depleted when we serve? I thought we only became depleted when we operated out of our own power and strength? And when we are connected to You; when You are the source of our strength, we never grow weary, because Your strength and power are never depleted.

And God says…”This devotional is about others depending and drawing on your strength and power as they come to learn to depend on God. Your students, children, grandchildren and followers will look to you as the Holy Spirit leads them to Me. This can be exhausting. So allow yourself to be exhausted in my service and I will replenish you as you are connected to Me. Seek first the Kingdom of God and everything else you need will be provided. Acknowledge Me in all your ways and I will make your paths straight.”