Burnout Isn’t Inevitable—But It Feels That Way, Doesn’t It?
It was the fourth meeting of the day, and Pastor Duante was running on fumes. His to-do list felt never-ending. Sunday’s sermon wasn’t finished, emails were piling up, and there were always more needs to meet.
The phone buzzed—another text from a church member asking for prayer. Duante exhaled, rubbing his temples. He loved his church, but lately, the weight of ministry felt crushing. How did something so life-giving start to feel so draining?
That night, as he collapsed onto the couch, his wife sat beside him. “Are you okay?”
He forced a smile. “Just tired.”
She didn’t push, but he could see the concern in her eyes. And deep down, he knew this wasn’t just tiredness. This was soul-deep exhaustion.
Sunday came. As Duante stood to preach, he looked out at his congregation. Dozens of faces, each carrying their own struggles, their own burdens. He was supposed to pour into them—but what happened when his own well had run dry?
Halfway through his sermon, he hesitated. He was about to power through, to keep up the appearance of strength. But instead, he took a breath and said, “Can I be honest with you?
I’m tired.”
A hush fell over the room.
Then—nods. Soft smiles. Some even teared up. He wasn’t alone in this. They were all exhausted in their own ways.
And maybe, just maybe, the answer wasn’t pushing harder but leaning in—together.
🙌 The Truth:
Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It sneaks up, one extra task at a time, one “yes” too many. But God never designed us to run on empty.
Jesus withdrew to rest (Mark 6:31)—even when crowds still needed Him.
The early church carried each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2)—because no one was meant to do ministry alone.
Sabbath wasn’t a suggestion; it was a rhythm for survival.
🔥 What You Can Do Today:
Be honest about your limits. It’s not weakness; it’s wisdom.
Ask for help. Ministry was never meant to be a solo sport.
Find a community that pours back into you. Who pastors the pastor? Who supports the servant?
🤝 Need to Recharge—and Help Others Do the Same?
At the Better Together’s 2nd Convening of a Community of Churches (May 2-3), we’re creating space for church leaders to renew their own energy and learn how to cultivate life-giving rhythms in their communities.
Come breathe again, rediscover the joy of shared ministry, and walk away with practical ways to help your people do the same.
