Working through Tiredness

I spend a lot of time feeling tired. 

Right now, for instance, I just woke up from a nap, and I don't feel as refreshed as I would like to feel. 

During these times, my inclination is to whine and complain that I'm too tired to do whatever tasks my life is requiring me to do. And if I do think enough to turn to God with my situation, it's typically to let Him know that I don't think I'm up to doing what He expects of me. 

In one of Sally Clarkson's podcasts (I listened to many of them in a row, so I don't remember which one!), I heard her describe how her daughter Sarah once went on a private retreat in the midst of difficult seasons in her life. While resting and praying, Sarah realized that God was calling her not to pray for fewer challenges in her life, but to pray for strength to meet the challenges. 

Honestly, this idea seems pretty basic, and I'm a bit embarrassed that it's not my natural inclination to think of it! It seems very true that, if God is calling me to do tasks like grocery shopping, cooking meals, or taking care of my husband's needs, then He is ready to give me the strength to do those tasks. 

I don't need to waste energy telling myself that I can't; I need to direct myself to the Source of all strength and tell Him my need for His supernatural provision. He is standing by to give me all the energy and strength that I need, if only I would ask. It's true that it might still feel like I have to slog through tasks, walking along the very edge of my strength, but that precipice is where I can become most aware of His gentle hand supporting me. 

After all, "I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13).