… work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Philippians 2:12b-13
“Pastor Mike, I can’t do it anymore,” she said, shaking her head. “I’m just not able to take on Sunday School – I feel spiritually dry and empty.”
“OK,” I said. “But let me ask you a question. When was the last time you came to a Bible study and received from God’s Word instead of trying to just give it out?”
“It’s been a long time,” she said.
“You are gifted by God to teach,” I told her. “You know that and so do I. But you are running on empty because you aren’t being fed. If you need to take time away from teaching in order to recharge your spiritual batteries, I get that. But sooner or later, God is going to call you to share your gift of teaching. Let God work in you and through you and you won’t work so hard.”
She did take a vacation. She came to an adult class I was offering and, in a few months, she re-upped for teaching our young people. But she kept coming to the Bible Study because, as she said, “I realize I can’t give my best if I’m not getting spiritually fed.”
One of the tragedies of the 21st century is that many of us have disconnected from our eternal power source. We continue with our hectic schedules and even volunteer in the church. But we feel empty and used up at times. Worse than that, we know we aren’t giving our best to the people and church that matters so much to us. Pressed by our commitments and a schedule that is daunting, any suggestion that we take time for Wednesday Worship or an additional Bible Study feels like a great burden.
What we don’t realize is that we need spiritual fuel. When we take time to receive from God, we are re-energized and our abilities are renewed with power and purpose: Choir members sing better, teachers teach better, pastors pastor better.
So, this summer, as you take time to enjoy the mountains or the coast, take time for spiritual re-energizing. It will add value and joy to your life.
Lord Jesus, you took time to refuel your soul. Remind me to do the same and open my life to God working in me. Amen
