I have a confession to make. Admitting burnout is hard, especially when you grew up in ministry. I watched my parents stay strong through everything, and for the longest time, I thought that’s just what you do—you push through, no matter how drained you feel. But I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to be brought low and wonder if you’re ever going to make it back out. You give and give until there’s nothing left in the tank. But God reminds us: “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Someone once told me, “If you don’t stop and take time for yourself, you’re absolutely no good to anyone.” And let me tell you, they were right. Ministry isn’t about running on empty—it’s about serving from a place of love and fullness.
For me, that recharge comes through music. Sitting at the piano, singing to God—it’s where I find peace. It has carried me through more days than I can count. And there have been moments when, in the middle of exhaustion, God has shown up right there, strengthening my spirit when I had nothing left.
One night, a minister friend prayed over me and, in that moment, called my daughter and another woman to hold up my arms, just as Aaron and Hur did for Moses when he grew weary (Exodus 17:12). Neither of them knew what I had been walking through, but they have continued to pray for me. That act of kindness—of seeing someone struggling and stepping in to lift them up—is what ministry is all about.
I’ve had to learn to say no. I’ve had to set boundaries. If I didn’t, my love for the people God has placed in our care would become harder to sustain. I love pouring into others, whether through prayer, encouragement, or even the sourdough goodies I bake (because let’s be real, nothing says “I love you” like homemade bread). But I never want ministry to feel like a task I have to do—it should be something I want to do. And that means taking the time to check myself and make sure I’m serving with love, not just obligation.
So, how do we keep serving from a place of joy and not burnout? Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:
Ways to Serve with Love and Joy
Pray Before You Serve
Not just for what you’re about to do, but for the people you’re serving. A simple prayer before stepping into ministry can shift our focus from just completing a task to truly loving those we serve. Ask God to fill you with His presence so that you serve from a heart of joy, not duty.
Slow Down and Be Present
Ministry isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about people. Take a breath. Look them in the eye. Hear their heart. Sometimes, the greatest act of ministry is simply being present. We get caught up in making sure things run smoothly, but sometimes, a hug, a listening ear, or simply sitting beside someone in silence can mean the most.
Encourage Others in Ministry
Ministry leaders get worn out, too. Send a text, leave a note, pray for a fellow laborer. You never know what battle they’re facing behind the scenes. Just as my minister friend lifted my arms, we are called to strengthen one another. Ministry isn’t a solo mission—it’s a shared journey.
Refill Before Pouring Out
Taking time with God isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. Jesus Himself withdrew to pray—so why do we think we can keep running on fumes? Spend time in His presence, let Him fill you, and then go serve from that overflow. Read scripture, worship, rest—whatever helps you refuel so you can serve with a full heart.
Set Healthy Boundaries
Saying yes to everything doesn’t make you more effective; it makes you exhausted. It’s okay to say no sometimes. It’s okay to rest. Setting boundaries allows you to serve with intention rather than resentment. Protect your time with God, your family, and yourself so that when you serve, you do it with joy.
At the end of the day, ministry should never feel like a burden. If it does, it’s time for a heart check. Let’s serve with love, with joy, and with the fullness that only comes from time spent with the Lord. Because when we serve from a full heart, we don’t just go through the motions—we make an eternal impact.
And, hey, if that full heart also involves handing out some sourdough cinnamon rolls along the way, I’d say that’s just good ministry. 😉
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