Sooner or later, every youth leader hits a wall and wonders: Is ministry worth the effort? Sometimes these feelings are born of frustration or lack of zeal. Sometimes they are seasonal. Other times, these feelings are born of exhaustion or the incessant demands of others.
Some years ago, I wrote a poem that reflected what I was feeling in ministry. I have shared this with many through the years as a means of giving voice to these feelings of burnout or frustration.
These days I feel I’m running fast
And spending energy
Must quicker than my tank will last
And life’s a blur I see.
I give my feet to races that
Have no start or finish line,
Disoriented where I’m at
With no goal by design.
I lend my hands to causes when
They fit tight as a glove,
I give my time people then
I give my heart to love.
I give away my very best,
And lend my ear to listen
Until my feedback is suppressed
And all my life’s a mission.
And as I give as I am able
My soul is absentee,
I am unrecognizable,
For there’s nothing left of me.
Yes, everyone in ministry has experienced these feelings at one time or another, but those who persevere also learn that while struggles sometimes can destroy us, they also cna reveal who we are. The key is being aware of where our strength comes from and then moving toward the source of that strength, which is God. Sometimes God does call us out of our self-centeredness—including our insatiable desire to be liked and appreciated—and offers us rest. Sometimes God brings other people to our sides when we are hurting.
Take stock of your own needs right now. What are they? Keep your heart intact by offering your best to yourself, too. After all, you are important!
