Ron Hutchcraft Ministries - You Can't Give What You Don't Have

Seems that in recent months, I have done more than my share of walking home or calling for someone to pick me up because I've allowed my car to run out of gas. But there's a catch. It's not that I'm just an idiot and enjoy the exercise. It's the fact that my gas gauge doesn't work, so I have to guesstimate on how far a tank of gas will take me. Needless to say, I've not guesstimated correctly at times, and it has cost me needless frustration and wasted time.

I've also noticed that I have driven my life this way at times. Expecting my marriage to run on fumes, giving my children my leftovers of time and energy, settling for drive-through devotionals as I'm on my way out the door.

And today is a great reminder of this problem for me. I'm exhausted. I have very little in the tank, and life keeps going with the same demands and expectations. Can you relate? If I'm truthful, even writing this blog is laborious for me today. So let's face the music. We can't give what we do not have. So I thought I would share what I plan to do in the next 48 hours to help replenish my fuel tank and restore my soul. This is a peek into my life. These are in no particular order. This is not a success story but an invitation to join me if you find yourself where I am - on empty.

What I plan to do in the next 48 hours:

• Go on a double date tonight with my wife and some dear friends to a fun pizza place.
• Get some yard work done, but more importantly, allow myself to take in the beauty of the sunshine and God's creation. It's not about getting the work done.
• Spend some time reading a great book by John Eldredge that I really enjoy.
• Play catch with my son and daughter as they get ready for a new season.
• Laugh...a lot.
• Watch an inspiring movie with my family.
• Rejoice in corporate worship with my brothers and sisters in Christ.
• Feed on the Word, but more importantly, allow God to communicate His love and truth to me by listening.

What activities or ideas would you add to the list that help you refill your tank? I would love to hear from you.