Low Battery
You ever feel like you’re barely holding it together?
Your body’s tired, your spirit is tired, and your to-do list doesn’t care?
That was me. Running around LA with a half-charged car, half-filled stomach, and barely enough sleep to count. And yet—somehow—God carried me through the day on 10% battery.
It wasn’t the kind of day where I got everything done.
But it was the kind where I felt God’s presence in the middle of the mess.
Running on Fumes (Literally)
Saturday started with a jolt, not a stretch. I rolled out of bed late, no breakfast, no quiet time, just caffeine and obligation. My car wasn’t even fully charged—75% battery, and I had to drive from the west side all the way to Sylmar.
On the freeway, I watched the battery level drop faster than my energy. And as it did, I silently prayed: “God, I’m going to need help getting through this.”
I was already spent—and the day had barely begun.
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” – Psalm 73:26
When You Show Up Anyway
Even though I was drained, I wanted to be there for my friend. She’d just moved into a new place and had invited me over before other guests arrived. The joy on her face as she gave me a tour of her home and community space reminded me why showing up matters. Her excitement was contagious.
After that, we went to lunch at Hanwoo Korean BBQ, then headed to the J-Hope pop-up shop in downtown LA. We didn’t have a reservation, but we still made it in.
While waiting in line, I met an ARMY who had just flown in from New York. She literally landed, grabbed a rental car, and came straight to the shop. She didn’t even have a hotel lined up—just vibes and passion. I laughed and said, “I’ve done that before.” (Hello, Hong Kong.)
She’d missed the Friday concert where Miguel joined J-Hope for “Sweet Dreams,” and we commiserated over timing. But it was beautiful—how strangers connect instantly through music and shared love.
And later that day, at the BMO Stadium merch booth, we ran into another ARMY who’d flown in from Oakland just for the Sunday concert.
The dedication. The spontaneity. The love.
Honestly, if money weren’t a concern, I’d be hopping on a plane for every show too.
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak… Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” – Isaiah 40:29–31
Dinner with Old Friends, in a New Home
After the merch run, I still had one more stop: dinner with a married couple I love deeply. I didn’t get to their place until after 7 p.m.—an hour late—because I had to take the back roads to conserve battery.
But when I walked in, all was well.
They’d just moved in and were excited to show me around. We made pizzas together—rolling dough, adding toppings, baking with laughter. For dessert, we had ice cream. I brought them lemons (courtesy of an overgenerous coworker), because yes, I believe in never showing up empty-handed—even if it’s citrus.
We caught up on life. Talked about culture, friendships, and faith. I told them how things were going with my small group. And somewhere in the middle of that meal, I remembered something beautiful:
I introduced them to each other.
And here they were—married, building a home, hosting me.
A full-circle joy.
“You don’t always need to power through. Sometimes, you just need to plug in.”– Unknown
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
“Rest is not idleness. It is fuel.” – Me, parked at the charging station, holding on by 10%
Quiet Time Self-Check
Take a moment to ask yourself:
1.) What’s currently draining your energy—and are you giving yourself permission to recharge?
2.) Am I showing up for others with love or simply pushing through with nothing left to give?
3.) Where do I need to plug in spiritually, emotionally, or physically—and what’s stopping me?
Final Thoughts: Blink, But Don’t Burn Out
Tonight, I sat at a charging station waiting for my car to fill back up—and realized I was doing the same for myself. Not with perfection. Not with ease. But with surrender.
God doesn’t need me at 100%.
He just needs me to be available.
So if you’re feeling overextended, overtired, or overwhelmed…
If your life feels like blinking red lights and low reserves…
Let this be your reminder:
Even at 10%, you’re still going.
Even at 10%, God is still with you.
And even at 10%, you’re still incredibly loved.
Let’s Reflect Together:
Have you ever felt like you were running on empty—but still saw God carry you through?
Share in the comments or message me—I’d love to hear your story.
© 2025 Amelie Chambord
Soul Path Insights 
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