- May 7, 2025
Exhausted: When Chasing 'More' Leaves Us Empty
In Part 1, we talked about how idols take over our priorities and distract us from God. But their impact goes even deeper—they drain us. Idols demand everything but never give anything back. So why do we keep chasing them?
Why Are You Always Tired?
Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything right—hustling, striving, checking all the boxes—but still feel drained and unfulfilled? You’re not alone.
There’s a reason people feel burnt out, restless, and exhausted—it’s because the things we chase were never designed to sustain us. Idols promise fulfillment, but instead, they leave us empty.
The Hidden Cost of Idols
Idols take more than just our focus; they take our energy, peace, and joy . They convince us that happiness is just one more achievement, one more purchase, one more validation away. But once we reach that milestone, the goalpost moves.
Here are some common idols and how they secretly drain us:
The Idol of Success
– We work harder, push more, sacrifice time with loved ones—all to prove we’re successful.
– But once we reach one level, another challenge comes. A promotion? Great—but what about the next one?
– Instead of resting, we chase the next achievement, never feeling like we’ve arrived.
The Idol of Money & Materialism
– The belief that “If I have more, I’ll finally feel secure” leads to constant striving—bigger house, nicer car, better clothes.
– But the more we buy, the more we want. And ironically, financial pressure adds stress instead of security.
The Idol of Approval
– We tailor our lives to please others—changing how we look, act, speak—so we can fit in or be admired.
– But no matter how many compliments or followers we gain, it’s never enough—we need more validation to feel secure.
– One negative comment, one comparison, and suddenly the cycle starts again.
Why Idols Can't Sustain Us
The biggest lie idols tell us is that they will complete us. But the reality?
– They take but never give back.
– They leave us running in circles.
– They exhaust our hearts, minds, and spirits.
It’s like drinking saltwater—the more we consume, the thirstier we become. It’s never fulfilling, because it was never meant to be.
Jesus understood this struggle, which is why He said in Matthew 11:28:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
God’s rest is different. Unlike idols, it’s not conditional. We don’t have to earn it—we just have to receive it.
Breaking Free: How to Stop Feeling Drained by Idols
If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly chasing but never arriving, here’s how to start shifting your focus:
1. Recognize What’s Taking Over Your Thoughts
– Ask yourself, “What am I obsessing over? What’s consuming my time and energy?”
– Is it leading you toward peace or away from God’s rest?
2. Invite God Into the Struggle
– Instead of pushing harder, pause and pray.
– Let go of the need to control outcomes, and surrender it to Him.
3. Fast from Distractions
– Whether it’s social media, work, or the constant urge to shop—step back.
– Create space for God to fill rather than letting idols take over.
4. Find People Who Keep You Grounded
– Community matters. Surround yourself with faith-filled people who remind you of God’s peace instead of fueling the chase for more.
5. Rest in Knowing You Are Already Enough
– You don’t have to earn your worth.
– Psalm 139:14 says, “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
– There’s nothing to prove—God already calls you valuable.
Final Thoughts
Idols convince us that if we just try harder, get more, or become better, we’ll finally feel satisfied. But all they do is drain us and leave us feeling empty.
God offers something different—peace, rest, security that isn’t based on achievements or approval but on who He already says we are.
So here’s the challenge:
What have you been chasing lately?
Has it been building peace or stealing it?
Let’s start the conversation—drop your thoughts below.
Last Part!
Idols leave us weary, but God offers rest. In Part 3, we’ll explore what happens when we finally let go—how life changes when God becomes the priority.
Remember, even if you’re drained and tired you can always surrender and give your worries to Jesus. He’ll carry your burden.
