Sometimes we come to church full of holy energy. We’ve had a great week. The family was great. The job was great. The time off was great. It was all great. Our relationship with Jesus is humming and we come into church ready to celebrate Jesus. We come to church full.

       But sometimes, we come to church full of negative energy. We had a stressful week at work. Our kids are fighting. Our marriage is struggling. We’re worried about the future. We come to church with anxiety, anger, bitterness, and discontent. We come to church empty.

       Just so you know, that’s more than ok. If there’s one place to be when you’re empty, when you’re struggling with negative energy, it’s close to God. The Psalms are this awesome book of our Bibles. It’s full of prayers to God. Honest prayers from people (mostly David) who are just pouring out their life to God. I love Psalm 61.1-4, “Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.” When life is hard, God’s still there, He still loves, and He still has a plan. When life feels out of control, He is still in control.

       This week, if you’re life feels a little out of control, take some time to be close to God. Take some time to read his Word, spend some quality time in prayer, or do what David did and journal your prayer to God. Spending time with God reminds us that our Father is still in control, even though I can’t see it right now. Spend some time with the rock, the refuge, the strong tower, and the eagle’s wings. 

       Thank you so much for volunteering to serve at our church. I know that’s especially difficult if you’ve got a lot on your plate outside of church. I pray that this Sunday you might be filled up, even as you pour yourself out for others. Thank you!