On The Edge Of Burnout

On the Edge of Burnout

“This is not good!” Moses’ 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

Not only did Moses lead thousands of people out of Egypt and through a very hostile environment, but he also served as the judge for every argument, small or large; as the intercessor for the people; and as their counsel. When Moses’ father-in-law saw how Moses stood all day listening to the minor complaints of scores of people, he counseled him to slow down before he burned out.

Moses wisely heeded the advice of his father-in-law and delegated many tasks to other capable leaders. This allowed him not only to rest physically but also to refresh himself spiritually so that he could accomplish God’s calling and purpose for him.

Sometimes we get caught in the same trap Moses did. It is easy to convince ourselves that no one can do the job quite as well as we can, that we are indispensable and can’t ask for help. Yet delegation is the most effective form of leadership. It fosters maturity in potential leaders, and whether in our ministries or our careers, it provides a wider foundation of talents for meeting diverse needs. It fosters our trust in God and in people around us.

Have you allowed others to share the joys and burdens of what you do, 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 service or ministry rather than find yourself exhausted and on the brink of burnout.

—CHERI

Dear God, I try to do things by myself and find that I am overwhelmed. Sometimes I want to put it all down and give up because I am so tired. Give me the wisdom to listen to wise counsel. 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