He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Psalm 23:3 A wick in an oil lamp will shine brightly for as long as it is fueled by oil. If the oil is not topped up, you will notice the wick itself beginning to burn and smolder. Soon the effect of light given out by the oil lamp begins to fade and wick eventually turns to ash, no longer of any use. So it is with any soul who burns vibrantly for the purposes of God without replenishing their fuel.
The Bible is packed with references pointing to the need for rest and replenishment. For instance, Jesus himself frequently drew away from the crowds to be alone with the Father in prayer.
Notice how he spent time alone with God the Father to refill his oil pot. It was in the stillness of submission to God thatthe Son of Man restored his strength and purpose.
The presence of God in prayer is your fuel reserve. If you find yourself burning t he candle at both ends, it may be time to draw away in prayer to rest. It’s in prayer that we are told to present our anxieties to the Lord with thanksgiving. It’s in prayer that we restore a peace that passes understanding. And it’s through pray that we cast our cares on the Lord. Jesus said, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” How else do we come to Jesus, but in prayer?