Wednesday, September 06, 2006

running on empty

I think too often in our lives we can be running on empty. Yes. We're still running. Maybe busy, doing this and that. Even trying to serve Christ. Yet, nevertheless, empty.

I have felt that way, as of late. Going back to work, back into the challenging grind of factory work, albeit for a Christian ministry. Back into the challenge of often fast pace, and all one meets in the real, work world.

What about it? What does one do, when they seem to be running on empty?

First, an inventory. Look at our life. What we've been doing. And not doing. What about sleep? How about our life in God? Our family life? The use of our time?

Next, I think we try to do what is right. Make adjustments we think should be made. Then wait. Yes wait.

Times of empty can be preparation for God's filling. When we realize our emptiness, that can open the door to his fullness. Yes, we're already full in Christ (Colossians). So we need to wait. Take care. Don't get overly worked up. This too shall pass. We will find him. Better, he will get through to us. And meet us. As we seek him. Amen.

8 comments:

L.L. Barkat said...

Sometimes I actually like "empty" in an odd sort of way. It makes me feel real... it makes me feel in touch with two-thirds of the world's people, who live with all kinds of "empty" that I never do.

And, of course, as you say, empty makes me ready for God... for that oil... that sweet Spirit oil that is just poised to tip into my soul.

Anonymous said...

l.l. barkat,
Excellent point. So true. That reminds me of our Lord's words: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." That's one I need to keep in mind, when facing this. Thanks.

I do have to be careful, because I can easily neglect things that will set me up for a running on empty, that is probably not always wise. Starting with not enough sleep....

L.L. Barkat said...

Oooo... sleep. I hope you're not trading it for blogging. :)

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Ted M. Gossard said...
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Ted M. Gossard said...

L.L. Barkat,

Thanks for asking. My hours are crazy and often disheveled.

My wife works four nights third shift (at hospital). And the nights vary.

I get home from a factory job in which I start early in the morning, often tired. So after we eat, I usually involuntarily (at least up to a certain point) fall asleep soon after I sit (or lay) down- with a book, usually.

Then I'll wake up weird hours.... Or usually after a couple hours. I wish I was blogging more when other people are actually doing so. Oh, well...... Thanks for indulging me in your thought of concern.

Ted M. Gossard said...

This computer or site was giving me fits.