Wise Words From Mentors: Fatigue Makes Cowards of Us All

by David Chadwick

During World War II, U.S. Army General George Patton wrote to his troops, "Fatigue makes cowards of us all. Men in condition do not fire."

Vince Lombardi had a similar message when he told his players, "You've got to keep yourself in prime physical condition, because fatigue makes cowards of us all.”

This famous statement was also one of Winston Churchill's favorite quotes.

Why is fatigue such a problem in our current society? Why does it seem that weariness seems to magnify whatever trials we are experiencing? Why does exhaustion cause people to so easily make mountains out of mole hills?

The answer is actually really simple. We are made up of three parts: body, soul, and spirit. When our bodies become tired, our minds and emotions are impacted. Minds suddenly become drained and emotions get fragile. Suddenly, thinking clearly and keeping an optimistic attitude seem impossible. Our circumstances can quickly seem to be worse than they really are.

How do we manage fatigue?

It’s quite simple, yet profoundly difficult in our busy culture. What’s the answer? Rest! You must take time to rest.

Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still, and know that I am God.” When you know that God is in control of everything, you can lay your weary head on your pillow at night and rest. God never sleeps, so we can (Psalm 121:4).

Practically, you should aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep every night. During this time, God will restore your body and mind.

As you find a healthy rhythm of sleeping and waking up, you are training your body and mind to fight the good fight.

You will begin to wake up invigorated and excited to tackle your day!

Remember to rest. Why?

Because fatigue makes cowards of us all.