Galatians 6:7-10: “A Word for the Weary” 

We can grow weary as real people walking with Christ and serving others in this fallen world. 

The Apostle Paul wrote,  “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). 

Don't quit when weary because our service is expected. 

“And let us not grow weary of doing good…”  We are not commanded in this verse to do good, it is assumed. We are commanded to not stop doing good. What kind of service is expected? In Galatians 6 alone we see, (v 1) restoring the fallen, (v 2) sharing other’s burdens, (v 6) meeting the needs of God’s servants, and (v 10) ministering to others. “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). 

Don't quit when weary because true success is anticipated. 

“…for in due season we will reap…” The time of your harvest is SPECIFICALLY selected for you. “DUE” translates from the Greek word “idios” for which we get our English terms “idiom” and “idiosyncrasy” – it relates to something that is PECULIAR or PARTICULAR, UNIQUE. Your harvest will be different from what someone else may reap. Secondly, the time of your harvest is SOVEREIGNLY selected by God. “SEASON” refers to a special occasion. From the Greek word “kairos” which refers to a set or proper time. 

Don't quit when weary because the Lord’s strength is available. 

“…if we do not give up.”  At first it seemed that Paul was speaking to them, but now we see he was including himself in this encouragement as he uses the word “we.”  Earlier in verses 7-8, Paul states the principle that we reap what we sow. He has taught the Galatians that they are to sow to the Spirit. These dear brethren had been plagued by false teaching, religiosity, and the travails of trying to live the Christian life in their own self-effort and strength. In Galatians 5 he calls us to walk by the Spirit (5:16), be led by the Spirit (5:18) and live by the Spirit (5:25). 

“Weary” is the idea of growing weak, faint, or feeling like a failure. God wants us to depend on His strength. It is amazing to see how often God’s strength is amplified in the Psalms. Examples are evident throughout the Bible of God working through our weariness and weakness. In other epistles the Apostle Paul testified, 

  • 2 Corinthians 4:1, Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart… 

  • 2 Corinthians 4:7, But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. 

  • 2 Corinthians 12:9, But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  

  • Philippians 4:13, I can do all things through him who strengthens me.  

I pray God will strengthen you as a servant of Christ in these days. 

 

Your brother in Christ, 

BRIAN AUTRY