The heat which wearies you is a contest of no great toil compared to many, and yet it is a contest. Do not despise it, but let it teach you lowliness. God hath placed before us contests within measure, having no toil. Yet let us not despise them for this. For if others put themselves to the stretch in unprofitable toils, what excuse shall we have if we will not endure those which are less and which have a greater reward? Which of Christ’s ordinances is burdensome? Which is grievous? To bear poverty through life is the part of strength. It is the part of strength to wrestle with hunger and thirst. Where none of these things are, but where you may enjoy your own, as becomes a Christian, what violence is there? The heat is a small affliction, but it can train the soul in patience and contentment.
Call to mind the blessed David, who knew that a broken and a contrite heart God will not despise. For that which is broken does not rise up, does not strike, but is ready to be ill-treated and itself riseth not up. Such is contrition of heart: though it be insulted, though it be evil entreated, it is quiet, and is not eager for vengeance. Offer up that brokenness, and you shall find it a sacrifice more pleasing than many. The truly marvellous thing is this, that not in fair weather, but when the storm is vehement and the turmoil great, the one who follows after virtue cannot be shaken ever so little. For he alone possesses safety and calm in the ebb and flow of things present.
And when you ask for a cool weekend and strength, remember the blessed Paul, who often besought God that his temptations might depart, yet God answered not his request, but his profit, saying, “My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” So He benefits us often against our will and without our knowing it. This sickness of body is not unto death of soul; even if relief does not come in the manner you picture, be not offended, as Lazarus’ sisters were not offended when Christ delayed and the event seemed contrary. God knoweth how to give good gifts; sometimes the very lack of cooling becomes a medicine for a feverish soul.
The poor and the broken are nearer to philosophy. Which is more apt to learn to be lowly and moderate? The one whose body is full of vigor and who overflows with riches, or the one who is crippled and in want? The soul of the rich teems with folly and numberless lusts; the poor man is already subdued in his whole bearing. So even this bodily fatigue may work for your profit, if you receive it as from a Father who wills your great gain. Godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. Let your abundance be a supply for the want of others, and in your own need, learn to trust Him.
Therefore, pray earnestly for refreshment, commit the weekend into the hands of the Lord Jesus, and ask that His perfect will be done; but add this also: “Nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” For He who careth for the birds of the air will neither forsake you. The heat may abide, or it may be turned away; in either case, the strength you need is already given to those who tremble at His words and wait upon Him. Let not your heart be troubled; His commands are not burdensome, and His yoke is easy. Even in this weariness, you shall find Him faithful.