On the Brink of Burnout

On the Brink of Burnout

“This is not good!” his father-in-law exclaimed. “You’re going to wear yourself out—and the people, too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself.”Exodus 18:17-18

Moses not only led thousands of people in a hostile environment but also served as a judge in every argument, small or large. When Moses’ father-in-law saw that Moses stood all day listening to the minor complaints of the people, he counselled him to slow down before he burned out. Moses wisely heeded the advice and delegated tasks to other capable leaders. This allowed him not only to rest in body but also to refresh himself spiritually so that he could accomplish the calling God had laid on his heart.

Sometimes we get caught in the same trap as Moses. It is easy to convince ourselves that no one can do the job quite like we can. Yet delegation is the most effective form of leadership. It fosters maturity in potential leaders and provides a wider foundation of talents for meeting diverse needs. Have you allowed others to share the joys and burdens of ministry, or are you wearing yourself out with a burden too heavy for you to handle all by yourself? Working as part of a team helps you to retain the pleasure of ministering to others without finding yourself exhausted and on the brink of burnout.

DEAR GOD, when I try to do things by myself, I am easily overwhelmed. Sometimes I’m tempted to give up because I am so tired. Give me the wisdom to listen to the wise counsel of others as Moses did. Thank you for always hearing me and for having all the answers even before I know what questions to ask! Help me to share my burden with others and to stop trying to do it all alone.

A BURDEN SHARED IS A LIGHTER LOAD.Anonymous