Running on Empty
“I am the vine, you are the branches.
He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit, for without Me you can do
nothing.”
Max
Lucado writes in God Came Near “One New Year’s Day, in the Tournament of Roses
parade, a beautiful float suddenly sputtered and quit. It was out of gas. The
whole parade was held up until someone could get a can of gas. The amusing
thing was this float represented the Standard Oil Company. With its vast oil
resources, its truck was out of gas. Often, Christians neglect their spiritual
maintenance, and though they are clothed with power (Luke 24:49) find themselves out of gas.”
God has equipped each of us with talents that make us
unique, and it is our choice to use it to grow His Kingdom. While it is
super important for us to serve others, it will be difficult to be effective in
reaching out to others when our “spiritual tanks” are running empty.
The
best habit to create is spending time with God. Whether it be singing songs of worship,
talking to him in prayer, or reading and mediating on His Word, we should be in
consistent relationship with our Father. Joshua 1:8 tells us, “Study this Book
of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to
obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all
you do.” As you spend time with God, your “tank” will be filled, and you will
have the needed tools to be an effective witness for Christ.
God
wants us to succeed, but He also reminds us that we can do nothing without Him.
He is our strength, joy, and source of abundant life. If you are not spending
time with God daily, I encourage you to start now. He is always with you, and
wants to be part of all you do. He is your friend in whom you can trust. Let
him refuel your spiritual tank today!
Suggested
prayer: Dear God, forgive me for ever thinking I could make it on my own. My
soul is dry and thirsts for you. Thank you for your faithfulness. I know that
you will fill me up when I abide in you. Help me bear much fruit for you. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.
1. John 15:5.
Today’s Encounter was written by:
Crystal B.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.