I have learned that everything has limits… —Psalm 119:96 (GNT)

The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get. —Proverbs 21:20 (NLT)

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” —Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

Why You Run Out of Gas

1. Being unaware of what is wasting my gas.

“This is not good! You’re going to wear yourself out—and the people, too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself.” —Exodus 18:17-18

2. Ignoring our owner’s manual.

Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. —Joshua 1:8

3. Driving with forced faith.

“What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice…” —1 Samuel 15:22

4. We are too busy to pause and refuel.

Fill Up Your Tank

1. Get fed up!

Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. —Isaiah 40:28 (NLT)

2. Come to Jesus.

He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. —Isaiah 40:29 (NLT)

3. Give up control.

Pile your troubles on God’s shoulders—he’ll carry your load, he’ll help you out. —Psalm 55:22 (Msg)

Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. —Galatians 5:25 (NLT)

4. Learn to trust.

“I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me.” —John 8:28 (NLT)

Discussion Questions

1. How is culture’s way of handling stress and burnout different than Jesus’?

2. What’s the difference between rest for your soul and rest for your body?

3. How is it possible to partner (be yoked) to Jesus and the load of life be lighter?

4. What are the disadvantages of setting our own pace and going our own way?

5. How can learning to be gentle and humble give rest to your soul?