God does His best work in an empty canvas
Ephesians 2:10:
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
You wake up each morning, but something feels missing. As you go about your day, there is a hollow ache within you that you cannot quite explain. You try to distract yourself with tasks and entertainment, but the emptiness persists. You wonder why you cannot shake this feeling, why you cannot find fulfillment in the things that used to bring you joy.
Perhaps it is because of the uncertainty in your life. The future seems unclear, and you are unsure of your purpose or direction. You may feel disconnected from others, unable to form meaningful connections. Loneliness creeps in, adding to the void within you.
Nevertheless, as a Christian, you question if it is right for you to feel empty. Should you not be filled with the joy of the Lord?
But what does it mean to say “You are filled with the joy of the Lord”?
Being filled with the joy of the Lord means experiencing a deep sense of contentment and happiness that comes from your relationship with God. It is feeling a profound peace in your heart, even amid difficult circumstances. For example, when faced with challenges at work or in your personal life, you maintain a positive outlook because you trust in God's plan for you.
It also means finding joy in serving others and sharing the love of Christ with those around you. When you volunteer at a local charity or help a neighbor in need, you experience a sense of fulfillment and purpose that can only come from following God's command to love one another.
Being filled with the joy of the Lord allows you to experience gratitude for the blessings in your life, both big and small. Whether it is enjoying a beautiful sunset, spending time with loved ones, or simply waking up to a new day, you recognize God's goodness and faithfulness.
Moreover, it involves rejoicing in your salvation and the hope of eternal life with God. Despite the trials and tribulations of this world, you find comfort in knowing that you are loved unconditionally by your Heavenly Father and that nothing can separate you from His love.
But your dilemma is that you cannot feel anything. If so, does this make you any less of a Christian?
Think of yourself as an empty canvas, waiting to be painted upon. Just like a blank canvas provides the perfect starting point for an artist to create a masterpiece, being empty allows God to work in your life. When you feel hollow and uncertain, it is like the canvas before the first stroke of paint - full of potential and possibility.
God works best with an empty canvas because there are no preconceived notions or obstacles in His way. When you surrender yourself completely to Him, He can mold and shape you according to His will. Just as an artist carefully chooses each color and brushstroke, God guides you with wisdom and love, transforming you into something beautiful.
By embracing your emptiness and allowing God to fill you with His grace and truth, you open yourself up to His divine intervention. Instead of trying to fill the void within you with temporary fixes or worldly pleasures, you trust in God's plan for your life. You let go of control and allow Him to lead you on the path He has set before you.
So, do not be afraid of feeling empty. Instead, see it as an opportunity for God to work His wonders in your life.
Moreover, realize that your faith does not guarantee a life free of pain and suffering. God understands your struggles and is there to comfort you in your time of need. Reach out to Him and others for support, and know that you are not alone in your journey.
Read more:
How to study the Bible when you are a visual learner?
