Serve From Overflow, Not Emptiness
- Jonathon Penney
- Oct 13
- 2 min read
“And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.”— Mark 1:35 KJV
In seasons of service and ministry, it’s easy to become spiritually depleted while doing good things. We preach, teach, encourage, and show up for others—yet deep down, our own cup runs dry. God, however, never intended for your service to replace your fellowship with Him.
Even Jesus—God in the flesh—knew the rhythm of withdrawing before pouring out. The Gospel of Mark paints a vivid picture: before the crowds came, before the day’s demands arose, Jesus withdrew to a solitary place to pray. He didn’t pray because He was weak or uncertain, but because He was dependent on the Father. That dependency was His power source.
Our modern world applauds motion—“grind,” “hustle,” “stay busy.” But heaven applauds abiding. The kingdom doesn’t advance by exhaustion; it moves through overflow. When you step away from the noise and return to stillness, you make room for divine refilling.
This study calls you back to stillness before action—a rhythm where you stop striving and allow God to pour into you before you pour out again. The strength you need for ministry, marriage, parenting, or leadership won’t come from sheer willpower. It comes from His presence.
When you are still, you receive clarity. When you rest, He restores perspective. When you sit quietly before Him, your calling is no longer a burden—it becomes an extension of worship.
So, take a step back today. Before you send the message, plan the meeting, or serve another need, retreat into His presence. Serve from the well, not the desert.
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