There are days when I just have nothing to give. Today’s one of those days. Nothing is wrong. I’m just dried up, uninspired, empty. No trite spiritual parallels to share. No divine inspiration. No insights on life’s mysteries. Just me, the computer, the empty page.
Thankfully, my God doesn’t have this problem. He always has an answer. He always knows what we need. Here are a few things He’s been teaching me:
Problems are opportunities. They are how we grow. They strengthen us, prepare us, not just for the challenges of this life, but for the joys and wonders of the eternity to come.
“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.” (Romans 5:3-4 NLT).
We all could use a little grace. None of us are perfect and we all need to give and receive a little mercy sometimes.
“God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” (Matthew 5:7).We need each other. We need friendship, a listening ear, a nudge in the right direction. It’s how God made us.
“The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.” (Proverbs 27:9)Sometimes being empty is a good thing. Until we feel our need, experience the vacuum only God can fill, we can never really appreciate the joy of His presence in our hearts.
“The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.” (Psalm 28:7).
“But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, ‘The Lord is great!’ ” (Psalm 40:16).
Today, if you’re feeling empty, embrace it. Ask God to fill you with His joy till you overflow. Then go and share it with someone else who’s running on empty too!