I am slightly anemic so there are certain times of the month when I am extremely fatigued. No matter where I am mentally or emotionally, I just do not have the energy to meet the physical demands of my life. In order to prevent my body from crashing during these times, I have to be intentional about giving my body what it needs to function. In the same way, when it comes to ministry, there are things that can wear us out and cause us to burn out if we don’t take the necessary steps and make accommodations to prevent it.
In 2022, the Barna Group surveyed pastors and discovered that 42 percent were contemplating quitting full-time ministry. The pandemic contributed to these numbers, but clergy burnout was on the rise before Covid-19. Pastors gave several reasons including the polarizing political climate in the U.S., the stress of the job, isolation, and loneliness. These were the top three challenges stated by pastors. Ironically, these challenges were the same for pastors who have not considered quitting. Those pastors said they’re able to continue in the vocation because they believe their ministry makes a difference, they feel a sense of duty, and they feel satisfied in their job.
However, modern-day pastors are not alone in their feelings. Moses feels burned out in Numbers 11 when he hears the people weeping throughout their tents in the camp. Elijah reaches his limits in 1 Kings 19 and says to the Lord, “It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my ancestors” (NRSV). In the New Testament, I’m certain to avoid burnout, we find Jesus withdrawing from the crowds to go to solitary places where he can pray and recharge (Luke 5:16).
So what can we do to prevent burnout? How can we keep fanning the flame of ministry so it continues to burn bright for the Lord? We can find a few tips in scripture.
Create Systems and Teams
After Moses shares with God that he cannot carry the burden of the people alone, God tells him to select 70 elders who God will anoint to share the burden with him. Nehemiah employs this same strategy when rebuilding the wall. He recruits people to share in the work. We don’t have to carry the burden and do all of the work alone either. Put systems and faithful people in place so that the church and its ministries can successfully function without you.
Address and Minimize Conflict
Studies show that conflict and emotional exhaustion from it are major contributors to burnout. Conflict is inevitable, but the Bible gives us some insight into how to address and possibly minimize it for personal sanity and peace. Matthew 18:15-20 provides advice on how to address conflict. We also have to choose our battles. Every issue is not worth starting a war. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (NRSV).
Build a Support System
None of us can do this work without people who can support us spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. Find your people and assemble your village. We know the story of Moses holding up his hand in Exodus 17. When he holds up his hand, Israel prevails, but Moses’ hands grow weary. That’s when Aaron and Hur step in to help him. We all need people around us who can lift us up in times of need. We may even need licensed and/or certified professionals including coaches and therapists. Having these people in place will help you manage ministry and life.
Finally, REST!
I have a “Type A” personality, so I know it’s hard to take time off. However, use God’s example. God rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2-3). Jesus withdrew from the crowds to rest. We need to do the same. Rev. Gareth Murray, Jr. says when it comes to avoiding burnout, “Regular rhythms of genuine rejuvenation: daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly – with each rhythm growing in its depth, duration, and distance from home.” Take the sabbatical. Go on the vacation. Use the personal day. God anoints and gives people a multitude of gifts. There are people who can continue the work while you are gone. Trust in God’s equipping of the believers, and give yourself permission to rest.