Breaking the Cycle of Burnout: Building Capacity for What Matters Most
“Lord, thank you for a restful Saturday morning—for the fall breeze and the green leaves waving in my backyard against a crisp blue sky. You are so good to me and my family. Thank you for knowing I needed this porch as a retreat from what is often a meaningful but demanding balance of family, work, and ministry—all the things. This space brings me back to you and your sovereignty every time. I’m so grateful. Thank you for seeing all things—so much bigger than I can.”
—A recent personal journal entry
Many of us know the ache of burnout. It sneaks in quietly. At first, it feels like busyness, but over time it becomes something deeper—a loss of perspective. Burnout happens when we forget God is sovereign and begin to live as if everything depends on us. We convince ourselves that if we don’t fill every second with activity, we’re somehow failing.
But burnout isn’t God’s design. His gift is renewal—through Him. Not just sleep (though that matters), but true connection with Him that fills our souls and reshapes how we see the work in front of us.
A Model of Wellness
One way I lean into God’s design for renewal is through The Oaks’ Wellness Model. It emphasizes whole-person wellness—spiritual, emotional, physical, and relational—to strengthen brain health. Imagine a bicycle tire: the outer rim represents “how well we feel,” while the spokes symbolize practices that keep us steady and strong. Simple but consistent habits can shape how we think, feel, and live.
As Jesus reminds us in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” God not only calls us to love and serve but also gives us bodies and minds that require care.
Building brain health isn’t about self-indulgence; it’s about increasing our capacity to do what God has called us to do. A well-cared-for mind quiets racing thoughts, sharpens discernment, and knows when to pause. It creates the space to listen, pray, and lead with wisdom rather than exhaustion.
In short, brain health builds soul health—and that sustains us for the long haul.
Regaining God’s Perspective
Burnout narrows our vision. Deadlines, crises, and constant needs begin to feel like emergencies, and soon we believe it all depends on us. That’s when discouragement, exhaustion, and resentment creep in.
The truth is, your daily work doesn’t run on your strength. It runs on God’s. When we step back and connect with Him, we gain not just relief but perspective. A porch moment, a quiet prayer, reading Scripture whispered over coffee—these are not escapes from “real work.” They are the work of re-anchoring our hearts in God’s sovereignty.
My high school basketball team in east Tennessee used to recite Isaiah 40:31 before every game: “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” That verse still brings me peace today. Renewal comes through connection with Him—and sometimes, for all my fellow “do-ers,” through rest.
When we abide in Christ, we remember that what feels urgent to us is never an emergency to Him. He sees the whole picture. He knows the outcome. And He invites us to serve out of His abundance, not our performance.
Practical Reminders for Daily Workers
So, what does it look like to resist burnout and embrace God’s perspective? Here are a few reminders:
Begin with gratitude. Each day, thank God for the small sanctuaries He provides—whether a porch breeze, a cup of coffee, a peaceful walk, or a laugh with a friend. Gratitude reorients our hearts to His sovereignty.
Sabbath is a gift. Rest isn’t laziness; it’s obedience and trust. Sabbath protects us from the illusion that the world depends on our striving.
Build brain-healthy habits. Prayer, silence, Scripture meditation, time in nature, nourishing food, and quality sleep keep us resilient. These aren’t extras; they’re essentials for faithful living.
Reconnect with your “why.” Burnout often comes when we forget what first motivated us. Revisit your story. Ask God to remind you of His love and purpose for you.
Balance challenge and rest. Meaningful work brings challenges, but constant depletion is a warning sign. Pause and prayerfully consider what you need. Ask God to show you—and then listen.
Lean into community. You weren’t meant to carry burdens alone. Share honestly with trusted friends, mentors, or counselors who can speak truth when your perspective is clouded.
Maybe today your “porch moment” looks different. Maybe it’s a car ride in silence, playing blocks with your toddler, a walk under the stars, or a chair by the window. Wherever it is, seek God. He promises to be found. He cherishes you and the difference you make in His world and through your daily work.
