When You’re Running on Empty - Your Nightly Prayer - February 3rd

When You’re Running on Empty
Your Nightly Prayer
By Kristine Brown

TONIGHT'S SCRIPTURE

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28 NIV

SOMETHING TO PONDER

There are many circumstances in life that can leave us feeling empty. Difficulties with our health, financial struggles, and strained relationships can drain us of our strength and joy. Some of us carry heavy burdens as we care for loved ones, juggle full schedules, and try desperately to meet the demands of daily life. Hard seasons can deplete us, both emotionally and spiritually, and if we don’t get the rest we need, we will keep trudging forward with what little energy we have left. 

Thankfully, Jesus extends an invitation to all who are laboring, worn out, and running on empty. In the midst of our most difficult and busy times, accepting yet another invitation may not appeal to our already overwhelmed souls. But what Jesus offers is no ordinary invitation. Jesus understands the weariness we will experience in this life, and he alone can replenish our emptiness.

In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites us into his presence with these words, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” I, for one, have been guilty of carrying too many things in my own strength. And even when I try to rest, my mind races with worry over situations beyond my control. I forget that Jesus gave us the gift of his peace—a peace that can help us get the rest we need when we’re running on empty. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27) Jesus’ peace was with him as he ministered on earth and endured the cross, and that same peace is available to us every day.

So, as we think about the peace of Jesus and hear his invitation once again to come to him, we have a choice to make. When Jesus says, “Come,” how will we respond? At the end of the day, as we sink into bed, longing for relief, let’s take that faith step toward Jesus. He is reaching his hand toward us right now, waiting for us to accept his precious gifts of peace and rest.

YOUR NIGHTLY PRAYER

Dear God,
I feel worn out and weary. I am trying to keep up with the demands of life, but I am struggling. It seems like I’m running on empty and can’t find the strength to take one more step. I cry out to you tonight and ask for your help, Lord. I need your peace. I need your strength. I cannot do this alone. Thank you for inviting me to come to you and experience true rest in your presence. I accept your invitation to find rest for my soul. I trust that you will replenish my emptiness and even fill me to overflowing. I bring my burdens to you and believe all my cares are in your capable hands. Thank you for bringing relief.
In Jesus’ name I pray,
Amen.

THREE THINGS TO MEDITATE UPON

1. Envision yourself writing down a burden you are carrying, tucking the note into an envelope, and handing it to Jesus. As you picture Jesus willingly taking the envelope from your hand, take a deep, relieving breath.

2. As you close your eyes and prepare for sleep, thank Jesus for filling you with his perfect peace.

3. Remind yourself that Jesus has given you a special invitation to rest. What is one reason you need to accept Jesus’ invitation right now?

Reflect on tonight’s prayer and share how God met you there. Join the Your Nightly Prayer discussion on the Crosswalk Forum.
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/ Adrian Swancar

Discover more spiritual growth resources from today’s devotion writer, Kristine Brown, including 20 Fulfilling Promises from God for When You Feel Empty. Learn more about women in the Bible and gain encouragement to help you “become more than yourself through God’s Word” at Kristine’s website, morethanyourself.com.