Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Is your tank full?

My life is busy, and I like it that way. But to put it in the words of my dear friend, "Mattie, you need to learn how to say 'no' to people!" I tend to take on too much and not leave enough time for the important things in life. My priorities have a mind of their own, and I struggle with putting them in the proper order.

Sure, it's important to stay involved with church, work, school, sports, etc...but it's even more important to reserve a time each day to spend in prayer and study of God's Word. And don't forget time to think. Just sit there...and think. :)



How are we going to "overflow" with Christ's blessings if we aren't full ourselves? It's absolutely essential to take time to refuel. Pray. Study. Look for answers. Hush up and just listen. "Be still and know that I am God..." (Psalm 46:10)

Remember...what's on the inside is what's gonna come out. And whatever you're surrounded by is what's going to end up inside of you. So make the best of your situation! Keep Christ at the center and no matter what, praise Him. I find that listening to hymns or some southern gospel turns my focus away from worldly situations and fixes my eyes on Jesus. Or taking a walk, run, or bike ride enjoying Creation. Or looking at my horse photography books :) What keeps your eyes on the Savior?

So...what happens if we just keep going and don't refuel? This is a tough one, y'all....guess!



We run out of gas.



Plain and simple, that's what it comes down to. And if we don't have any, we sure can't share any. Our words become sharp, fiery arrows...our actions become selfish...our thoughts stray toward worldly, self-centered ideas. This causes strained relationships, a weakened testimony, and ultimately a loss of usefulness. So fill up. Heavenly gas prices never rise :)


Benefits of a full tank are many - too many to list here :) Deep, glorious peace...quiet (sometimes bubbling!) joy...encouraging words...thoughtful thoughts...true comfort...the list goes on! And because of these things, we can lift others up, be the "friend is closer than a brother," offer godly advice...you get the picture.


Are you running on empty? If so, God's gas station is always open. Remember - don't wait til you're empty to fill up! God is not a spare tire just to pull out when the going gets tough. Our entire life, through the good days and the bad, must center on Him.

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