Does the title of this article resonate with you? For many of us, it likely does. In our youth, life often felt lighter, unburdened by the responsibilities we now carry. The strength we are required to show—both for ourselves and for those who depend on us—can be exhausting. I understand this firsthand, as I find myself in a similar place, which compels me to share this message with you.
Perhaps you are a single parent, or you have experienced the profound loss of someone dear to you, leaving your heart heavy and weary. In these moments, I encourage you with the words of the Lord, who fully understood the weight of the cross He bore. He invites us to cast our cares upon Him, reminding us that His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
Your burdens are not meant to drain you, for with every challenge you face, there is sufficient grace to sustain you. Scripture assures us that His grace is enough. Admittedly, this may sound easier said than done. In my youth, I studied Fenelon’s book, Let Go, which simply teaches that living victoriously often means surrendering our struggles and allowing God to carry the weight that feels too heavy for us.
Perhaps you find yourself in a relationship where you feel unequally yoked, and it seems to be holding you back from living fully. I am not suggesting separation or divorce; rather, I encourage you to pray and trust God to work in your partner’s life. Lead by example, and let the light of Christ shine through you.
Maybe you are a young person burdened by the pressures of school or the pain of bullying. I understand—having experienced bullying myself, I know it can be overwhelming. Yet, those experiences did not destroy me; they made me stronger. The very title of this reflection, “Tired of Being Strong,” resonates with many who feel mentally and emotionally exhausted by constant worries and responsibilities. These feelings are valid, but remember: God cares for you.
Consider this—when was the last time you lacked a meal, warm running water, or clothes to wear? Has the Lord not provided for your needs? If so, why do we grow weary from carrying the weight alone? Trust in His provision, and allow yourself to rest in His sufficiency.
I have been living with schizophrenia for the past 28 years. I am currently 47 years old and was diagnosed at the age of 19. Throughout this time, I have faced significant challenges that have deeply affected my quality of life. Each day is a struggle, and the illness has proven to be progressively debilitating. Schizophrenia, by its nature, is a degenerative condition, and I have experienced a gradual decline in my health over the years.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), also known as electroshock treatment, has been a part of my journey—I have undergone 38 sessions to date. Despite these interventions, the burden of the illness remains, and I often feel exhausted by the ongoing battle. Over the past 28 years, I have spent more than 580 days in psychiatric hospitals, reflecting the severity and persistence of my condition.
The historical context of mental illness is sobering. In earlier centuries, individuals with schizophrenia faced severe persecution and inhumane treatment. Women were often accused of witchcraft and executed, while men were subjected to confinement under deplorable conditions. While society has progressed, the stigma and challenges associated with schizophrenia persist.
My personal circumstances have been further compounded by the loss of my wife on March 10th of this year. Since her passing, I have struggled profoundly, resulting in two medication overdoses that required intensive care. I have been unable to work for 28 years and currently have no source of income.
I share my experience not to evoke fear or pity, but to provide insight into the realities faced by those living with severe mental illness. My hope is that increased understanding will foster greater empathy and support for individuals navigating similar challenges.
You are doing well—there is no need for undue worry. In fact, after hearing my story, I believe you will feel even more encouraged. For the past 28 years, my strength has come from Jesus Christ, and this faith has sustained me through every challenge. I have learned to rely fully on God, and I can confidently say that there is no better place to be. Personally, I would rather live humbly with the assurance of eternal life than possess great wealth without that certainty. Of course, this is not to suggest that all wealthy individuals are excluded from salvation; I know about several billionaires who are genuinely born again and assured of their place in Heaven.
The purpose of this article is not to discourage you, but to uplift and motivate you as you navigate your own journey. Life is often described as a race, and while it requires effort and perseverance, it also calls for responsibility and the ability to respond wisely to life’s challenges. True strength for this journey can only be found in Jesus Christ.
While my own life has been marked by significant trials, I want to leave you with a message of hope: the promise of everlasting life. Our time on Earth is temporary; we are merely passing through. There are two very real spiritual destinations—Heaven and Hell.
I have listened to the testimonies of many who have had near-death experiences and returned to share their encounters with Hell. It is not a place anyone would wish to end up. The thought of eternal separation from God is truly beyond comprehension. If you are an atheist, you are among a small minority—statistics indicate that approximately 98% of the world’s population believes in the existence of a higher power.
We are privileged to know that God has revealed His name to us—Jesus Christ—who holds supreme authority, seated at the right hand of the Father, and who even now intercedes on our behalf. The cross was not without purpose; God did not send His only begotten Son to suffer and die merely to make a statement. Humanity, by nature, is marked by sin—a reality that traces back to Adam and Eve. This is a truth we all recognize.
Yet, in the midst of this, God’s love for you is everlasting. He desires only the best for you. I encourage you to seek out a Bible-based church in your area. Community is essential; we are created to belong, to support one another, and to be part of something greater than ourselves. Your life has purpose, and you are here for a reason—not by accident, but by divine design. You are loved with an unconditional, agape love.
Today, I extend an invitation to you. If you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and entrusted your burdens to Him, you can make that decision now. I would encourage you to connect with a pastor at a local church and pray together, confessing Jesus Christ as your Lord. Spiritual growth flourishes in community, through shared worship and engagement with God’s Word. You are invited to take this step and experience the fullness of life that God intends for you.
Blessings!
