Running On Empty Pt. 2

Matthew 11:28-30 “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Message Paraphrase

To recap.

#1 - Stop.  Let's use an adage here.  Stop doing the same thing over and over expecting different results. 

#2 - Rest.  Rest gives you perspective.  It clears the mind and the heart.  

#3 - Admit.  Have a, "come to Jesus" moment with yourself and admit that you cannot keep going this way.  

Now let's add

#4 - Get help!  Running on empty isn't anything new.  New moms know all about it.  Multi-job households know about it.  Parents with 2 or more kids know about it.  Look around you and find someone who has, "been there and done that."  Ask them what they do.

Is your problem more significant than a conversation?

Over 30 years ago I burned out.  I took a psych evaluation test that would score you on what you should do next.  You know the ones.  If you score a 1 - 10 keep doing what you're doing.  11 - 20 you need to fine-tune some things, but all in all you're doing pretty good.  My score was so bad that the test recommended that I stop what I was doing and immediately check myself into a psychiatric hospital.  That's not good.

I didn't, but I did need to get some serious duty help.  Don't be ashamed if you have to go to your doctor, pastor or a therapist/counselor.  Professional help can go a long way.  

#5 - Check your priorities.  Chances are either your priorities are out of sorts, leading you to do more than you can, or they are out of order.  Take time to pray for this one and allow the Holy Spirit to show you the right order.

#6 - Say no.  One of the easiest things to do is stop doing something.  Once you have your priorities in order, start saying no to the things that are not a priority.  

PRAY:  Dear Jesus, fill me up with Your joy.  AMEN  

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