Mental weariness (κάμνω) is an exhaustion of the soul that impacts the mind. It can result from continual struggles, long, arduous journeys, or the accusing of the conscience for wronging another person.
James writes of the vow of faith by those who are mentally weary. In the early Church, the Elders (Pastors) would assist those who were physically sick (ἀσθενέω), praying over them and anointing them with oil, which was used for relief from sickness. However, for those who are having a mental issue, it is the vow of faith that will provide calmness. This vow is to correct a wrong done, which is causing a negative impact on the mind because of the weariness of the soul.
And the vow of faith will save the mentally ill and the Lord will raise him up and if he has done a sin, it will be forgiven him – James 5:15.
A physical weariness (ἐκλύω) can cause a person to lose heart. During His earthly ministry, Jesus fed a large crowd that had come out to hear Him speak on the Kingdom of the Heavens. He has compassion on them because they were exhausted from their journey, Matthew 9:36. A person who sows should not exhaust their strength, for in due time, he will reap from his work, Galatians 6:9. Sowing righteousness will take more time to reap than sowing to the flesh, which seeks instant gratification. Patience in doing good and taking time to rest is essential so we do not grow weary in overcoming what is wrong with good. As sons of God, He corrects us when we do wrong. We are not to become physically exhausted by this child-training, for the Lord rebukes those He loves, Hebrews 12:5. One who resists His correction will become weary of their struggle because they are not accepting His guidance. The Lord will not allow His own to be condemned with the world; therefore, when we are judged, we are child-trained, 1 Corinthians 11:32.
When it comes to facing troubles for our faith, instead of growing mentally weary of the soul and becoming physically exhausted by the struggles we face, we are to remember Christ, Who suffered such hostility from sinners towards Him, for He is the author and finisher of our faith.
For consider this One who endured such hostility from the sinners against Himself in order that you all do not become mentally weary of the soul, being physically exhausted. Hebrews 12:7.
Let us remember that we do not walk alone and take time to fellowship with other saints so that we encourage each other as we rest together from the struggles we face in this life. Time spent with other saints, especially during the week, can be very restorative for the soul and mind.
