Let’s Recover Together
From Yara Armenta
When I was serving at my previous church, I hit a season where I experienced burnout. Because of that, I didn't reach out to ask for help and I just wanted to quit. I didn't know to set boundaries of saying "no" or to ask for time and help. I remember sitting in my car and crying to God because of how burnt out I felt but feeling obligated to serve. I wiped my tears and served that week as if everything was okay.
Taking this anecdote into consideration, there are many things that could have been said or done to not hit that point.
First, it is okay to ask for a break when serving. Matthew 11:28-30 shows us what God’s desire for His purpose in our life should feel like. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” This does not only refer to work itself but also for the purpose that God has for us. I should have asked for a break sooner and set boundaries for the benefit of my relationship with God. Do not put up a mask as if everything is okay, but rather be sincere with how you feel. Church is meant to be a safe space for emotions to be processed.
Second, if your personal relationship with God is being affected… step out. Your salvation is not dependent on the works you do, but rather your heart and faith behind those works. Ephesians 2:8-9 speaks about this truth. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Your relationship with God should not be dependent on if you serve, but rather serving is a way of showing gratitude. God has called us all to serve and has gifted each of us with skills that are meant to be in practice within the church body. The Rock offers DBS groups, Discover Freedom, and Mentoring 1-on-1 to help with these needs.
When moving to The Rock, I remember asking God to not put me in any leadership position because I was burnt out. I just wanted to show up on Sundays and serve every now and then. My convictions eventually caught up with me. Not because I was pressured by people, but rather because God has called us to be active in His church. I would have never imagined the blessings that He would bring through serving. Had I not been obedient, I would have sabotaged the greatest blessings God has ever given me: working with the children, KIDS Rock Team, and feeling fully supported by leadership and members alike.
God has placed us in a specific place for a reason. There are people - believers or not - who are in need of the gifts that God has given each of us. Once God calls you back into serving, after the rest, do not hesitate to walk in obedience. If there are doubts or hesitations, remember to communicate properly. Allow yourself to be supported by the church and, above all, by God. So let's recover together in love, patience, and obedience.
