Truck not getting fuel

1997 Chevrolet Silverado K1500 Z71 4x4 with 136000 miles. I have changed the water pump, alternator, battery, radiator, spark plugs, wires, distributor in the past year.

I ran out of gas a few days ago on the interstate and I think if messed something up.
I went out to my truck yesterday and my truck would not start, it trys to run just not firing. I first reset the computer by taking off the battery cable, still wont start. Next I pulled out a spark plug wire and it fired just fine. Then I didnt hear the fuel pump engaging when I turned it to the on position so I checked it and pulled the tank down and it started engaging so I put it back together and it engages every time. Then we pulled the fuel line from the filter to make sure it wasnt clogged and it came out just fine. So we think the fuel is getting past the filter but not getting to the engine. I then went to the store and bought starter fluid and sprayed it in the engine and it started right up perfect. What else can keep the fuel from getting from the filter to the engine. I have to go out of town on Friday and need my truck bad. If you can help I would greatly appreciate it