Do you ever feel like you’re running on fumes…or perhaps completely empty?
I imagine we have all experienced seasons where the reserves are running dry and we have nothing left in the tank.
Just over a year ago, I was in one of these seasons. A period of feeling like I was driving in circles, stuck in a perpetual NASCAR race wondering, “what’s the purpose...what’s my purpose?” I was discontent and burning out fast. That’s when my crew chief (Heavenly Father) called for a pit stop. Did I make it into the pit in time? Not quite... God had a literal pit stop in mind.
Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.
My car ran out of gas, thankfully in a neighborhood with a generous young couple who offered to drive me to the closest Wawa. Making small talk as we drove led to a deeper conversation as I learned that this couple had recently lost their perfect little baby girl. Sensing their grief and emptiness, God prompted me to pray with them. Even when I was feeling drained and depressed with nothing left to give, God used me anyway. (WOW Lord, thank you for choosing me.) It was a divine appointment - for me and for them.
2 Corinthians 12:10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
I refueled my gas tank and God refueled my soul. He used this detour to speak so clearly to my heart, reminding me of the truth that He DOES have a plan for my life and that His plan is purposeful and powerful! Even when I ignored the warning signs (in life and in my car), He still used me in my weakness. I am enough just as I am, just as He created me to be. God has given me unique gifts and abilities to love others and glorify His name. Just two months after this pit stop, God provided an opportunity for me to serve as an apprentice in women’s ministry. This was an answer to my prayers for deeper connection to other women and desire to serve others. In the year and a half since that time, God continues to use me in my weakness, in my sin and shortcomings, in my struggle with anxiety and fear. And God will continue to use you too!
Jeremiah 31:25 For I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish.
I pray this encourages your heart today knowing that 1) God has a plan and purpose for your life, 2) when everything else drains you, He sustains and refreshes your soul , 3) He will use you despite your shortcomings. The good news is Christ’s gas station is open 24/7, and even if you run out of gas, He’s on AAA speed dial! Cheesy but true. God will never leave you or forsake you (Deut. 31:6).
Hebrews 4:16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
ABOUT OUR GUEST BLOGGER
Danielle Kuhn is a Delaware native who enjoys all the small-town aspects of living in the heart of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, with her husband Brian. Meaningful conversations and exploring the beauty of nature by foot fill her soul. She is passionate about connecting and encouraging other women in their faith. One of her simplest joys in life is sipping a warm cup of tea, that has undoubtedly been reheated at least once in the microwave!
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