I get asked all the time, “How do I avoid ministry burnout?” or “What do I do when I start feeling burned out?” Ministry burnout is real, and it happens to more people than it should. Today, I’m going to give you a few simple ways to try and keep yourself from burning out.
Be in the Word daily. This should be a non-negotiable anyway, but it’s easy to push back when things get tough. Sister, dive in. Let the Word refresh you, encourage you, and build you up.
Be reminded that God isn’t surprised by whatever is going on. He’s all knowing, omnipresent, and has your back. While we often are faced with things we can’t handle on our own, there’s nothing we can’t face when we’re completely dependent on God.
Be honest about where you are. Share with a few trusted friends (and possibly a Christian counselor) about what’s going on. Let them be wise resources and encouragers in this season. Make sure you have good accountability in place with those friends. You aren’t alone!
Be open to a change if it’s where God is leading. I wrote a post earlier this year on being faithful where you are, but also be mindful that God often uses hard seasons to prepare us to be released into something else. Pray that he would confirm any change or move very clearly so you’re not running away, but following his lead.
Be reminded of your first love and your calling. Jesus is your first love, and he’s the one who has called you to this place and this ministry. While callings and assignments can change over time, Jesus never changes. He is always faithful. Remind yourself today of his faithfulness.
The enemy would love nothing more than for every single one of us to quit doing what God has called us to, and so he loves it when we feel like we’re at the end of our rope. Before you quit or run, remind yourself of who you are in Christ and what he’s called and equipped you to do. Let’s make it our aim to “live worthy of the calling you have received” like Paul challenges us in Ephesians 4:1. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus!