HelpFinder Bible - Flipbook - Page 48
page A46
Burnout continued
that we quickly become exhausted. Because burnout is so draining and paralyzing, we
need to take care of our bodies and minds by eating right, exercising, and getting plenty
of sleep and rest. However, one of the best ways to reduce burnout is by taking time out
to be close to God. When we draw close to him, we can tap into his power, strength,
peace, protection, and love. Doing this can help us stay strong and persevere through
even the worst times of burnout.
How do I know if I am experiencing burnout?
• 2 S A MU E L 2 1 :1 5 | And when David and his men were in the thick of battle, David became
weak and exhausted.
• PSA L M 3 8 :8 | I am exhausted and completely crushed. My groans come from an anguished
heart.
If you become weak and exhausted in the middle of a seemingly endless stretch of work,
you may be experiencing burnout.
• 1 K I NG S 1 9 :1 4 | “I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too.”
• E C C L E S I A S T E S 2 :2 2 | So what do people get in this life for all their hard work and anxiety?
If you despair because it seems your work will never be done, or it seems you are in a rut
and can’t get out, you may be experiencing burnout.
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• PSA L M 6 9 :1 -2 | The floodwaters are up to my neck. Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire;
I can’t find a foothold.
You may be experiencing burnout if your life feels overwhelming and everyday tasks seem
impossible.
HelpFinder
• J E R E MI A H 4 5 :3 | “I am overwhelmed with trouble! Haven’t I had enough pain already?
And now the Lord has added more! I am worn out from sighing and can find no rest.”
When you become burned out, you may feel bitter toward God.
Why are leaders in danger of burning out?
• 2 C O R I NT H I A NS 4 :7 | We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are
like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power
is from God, not from ourselves.
Leaders are human. They get tired, frustrated, discouraged, and confused. They also fail
and sin just like everyone else. Yet, by God’s grace, our humanity does not disqualify us
from serving him in all that we do. In fact, our limitations become the means for God to
reveal his power and mercy.
Does God expect me to be busy all the time?
• PSA L M 2 3 :2 | He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.
• MAT T H E W 1 1 :2 8 -2 9 | Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. . . . And you will find rest for your souls.”
Activity itself is not a virtue; it can actually be a detriment to your spiritual life. There are
times when the Lord invites you to rest and be refreshed in his care.
What is the antidote for burnout?
• I SA I A H 4 0 :2 8 -3 1 | The Lord . . . never grows weak or weary. . . . He gives power to the weak
and strength to the powerless. . . . Those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will
soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
When you are weary, a key to renewal and refreshment is “waiting on the Lord.” Waiting on
the Lord is the patient expectation that God will give you his power and strength to persevere through life’s work and difficulties. He promises to help you soar like an eagle and run
like a marathoner when you draw your strength from him.
• E X O DU S 1 8 :2 1 -2 3 | “Select from all the people some capable, honest men. . . . They will
help you carry the load, making the task easier for you. If you follow this advice . . . then
you will be able to endure the pressures.”