How to Avoid an Empty Life
By Charles Stanley

Psalm 16:11

16:11 You will make clear to me the way of life; where you are joy is complete; in your right hand there are pleasures for ever and ever.

Psalms 16:11

In public, most people appear happy and confident. But beneath the surface, many feel empty. In fact, it is possible to be in a large crowd and yet feel alone.

A lot of men and women see no meaning or purpose in life. Attempting to overcome the emptiness, some become busy, others turn to drugs or alcohol, and still others strive for more money, power, or love. Though pleasure exists for them, it is usually short-lived.

There’s a reason why life can feel empty: God created man with a yearning—one that He alone is able to satisfy. Individuals cannot be fulfilled until they experience the Lord’s transforming and unconditional love. Jesus said, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). In other words, God wants us to feel complete, which can happen only through a relationship with Him.

However, even a person who is saved can feel empty. This could result from disobedience: a slight detour in one’s walk with the Lord can become a way of life, depriving a believer of deep satisfaction. It’s also possible for Christians to live according to God’s Word without fully surrendering their desires to Him. For example, many believers still try to fill up their own void with achievement, wealth, or relationships. When aspirations like these are given higher priority than the Lord, they are a form of idolatry.

We can live a full life only when we seek God above all else. Pray for His guidance as you search your heart. Confess any sin or idolatry, and ask God to fill your life as only He can do.