Several weeks ago, our pastor began his sermon with a story about pushing the limits on his gas gauge. He went on to equate the story with times we push ourselves too far and end up running on empty.
I’m there…running on empty. The first half of this year has been non-stop, with very few opportunities to coast, let alone, rest. My brain seems to always be working on multiple issues while grief constantly begs for attention. Perhaps my mind is more exhausted than my body. I think that’s probably normal in my current circumstances, yet we also push ourselves beyond physical limits.
Following are thoughts on running on empty:
Underestimating the “E”
Jim loved to see how far he could go on a tank of gas, even if it meant sputtering up the exit ramp and limping into a gas station. On occasions when he didn’t make it, and had to call for rescue, Jim considered underestimating the “E” as a personal failure. He was always sure he could milk it to the last drop of gas and reach his destination. I think it’s a guy thing—pushing the limits, yet we all do it from time-to-time.
In what areas of life have you underestimated personal emptiness?
Pace Yourself
I know people who thrive on making a long list and seeing how much they can get done in a day. Yet, we don’t get brownie points for the number of check marks on a to-do list or how many unnecessary hoops we jump.
It’s okay to give yourself permission to slow down. Pacing is especially important for those who are grieving, caregiving, or dealing with health issues. You haven’t failed if you can’t keep up with the rest of our frantic world. In fact, you get a prize for being smart enough to know you need to pace yourself. Dropping into low gear may be just what you need to avoid running out of steam.
Find a Place of Peace
For years, the pool at my childhood home served as a place of peace. Sparkling blue water, towering green trees, and birdsong immediately signaled calm and peacefulness to my soul. The sale of that home in 2020 left me feeling displaced. I wasn’t sure I’d find another location that provided that level of peace. However, it didn’t take long to discover my deck in the early morning is that place.
Find a spot that signals comfort and calmness for you. Go there to experience peace and put the worries of the world aside, even if only for a short period of time.
Prioritize Rest
When I was younger, I’d push myself to stay up late to finish tasks. Most of the time, those tasks could have waited until the next day. I was often tired during the day and had to learn the importance of giving rest a place of priority.
Jesus modeled rest for us in scripture. He often distanced himself from his followers, and the crowds, to rest, re-charge, and spend time with his father. He knew what we often forget—you can’t go very far when you’re empty.
Physical rest is necessary, but refilling your spiritual tank is also important. Without spiritual refilling, we’re running on empty when life hands us unexpected pressures, stresses, and situations. Pace yourself, find a place of peace, and prioritize rest so you avoid underestimating the “E” of empty.
This week I’m refilling my tank, soaking in the love of family togetherness and gazing at the sea. I’m watching the slow and steady progression of sunrise, hearing waves crash to shore, spending time in prayer, and meditating on God’s faithfulness in all seasons of life.
A time of refilling, recharging, and rest re-engages forward motion.
“Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder.” (Romans 12:11-12 MSG).
©CandyArrington
Candy Arrington is an award-winning writer, blogger, and speaker. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotions published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).
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