A Cup of Joe with Preacher Joe: When Good Folks Get Tired of Being Good

A Cup of Joe with Preacher Joe: When Good Folks Get Tired of Being Good

Hey there, friend! Grab your favorite mug and pour yourself a hot cup of coffee, because today, we’re diving into a topic that hits home for many of us: the exhaustion that comes from being good to ungrateful people.

The Strain of Being Good

It’s no secret that constantly giving and rarely receiving can wear a person down. You hold the door open, lend a hand, offer a kind word, and sometimes it feels like it all goes unnoticed. You’re not alone in feeling this way. Even the best of us—yours truly included—can grow weary of extending kindness only to be met with indifference.

Lessons from Galatians

Let’s turn to Galatians 6:9 for a bit of wisdom. Paul tells us, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” It’s a straightforward reminder that while our good deeds might not yield immediate appreciation, they are planting seeds that will eventually bear fruit. It’s a bit like brewing coffee—sometimes it takes a while for the aroma to fill the room, but when it does, it’s worth the wait.

The Example of Jesus

Look, if anyone understands ingratitude, it’s Jesus. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and still faced rejection and betrayal. Yet, He never stopped loving, never stopped giving. His steadfastness in the face of ingratitude teaches us that our good deeds should not be dependent on the responses of others. Instead, they should be rooted in love and faithfulness.

Practical Tips to Keep Going

    1.    Set Boundaries: Being good doesn’t mean being a doormat. Jesus often retreated to pray and rest, showing us the importance of self-care. Set boundaries that protect your peace and allow you to keep giving from a place of strength.
    2.    Seek Community: Share your experiences with a trusted group of friends or a faith community. Sometimes, all we need is a little encouragement from folks who understand our journey.
    3.    Check Your Motivation: Reflect on why you choose to do good. Are you looking for recognition, or are you acting out of genuine love and faith? When our motivations are pure, we are less affected by others’ reactions.
    4.    Take Care of Yourself: Don’t forget to recharge. Whether it’s through prayer, a good book, or a walk in nature, find what fills your cup and make it a regular part of your routine.

The Power of Prayer

When you’re feeling drained, remember Psalm 55:22: “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never permit the righteous to be moved.” In those moments of weariness, lean into God’s promises. Pray, reflect, and let Him renew your strength.

Reflection Time

    •    Think about a time when your kindness went unnoticed. How did it make you feel?
    •    How can Jesus’ example of relentless love inspire you to keep being good, even when it’s tough?
    •    What practical steps can you take this week to ensure you don’t grow weary in doing good?

Wrapping Up

Friend, being good in a world that sometimes feels thankless is no small feat. But remember, your efforts are not in vain. By drawing strength from our faith and focusing on the bigger picture, we can keep spreading kindness and love. As you sip your coffee and ponder these thoughts, take heart in knowing that your perseverance is making a difference, even if you can’t see it just yet.

So, here’s to you—keep brewing that goodness, one cup at a time.

Blessings,
Preacher Joe