From sunrise to sunset, we work ourselves to death. We say we don’t, but in between college, work, sports, family, friends, chores, adult responsibilities, social media, meal prep, and sleep, we find ourselves overburdened and weary. Before we know it, we’re living lives that Psalm 127:2 warns against: “In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves” (NIV).
Unfortunately, this burnout and addiction to busyness are common among young adults—myself included. Even and especially among Christians, we say our “work for the Lord” doesn’t violate that verse, but did God ever ask you to push yourself to the brink of exhaustion—even when it includes 12 small groups, 3 hosted events, and 2 service projects? Of course not. According to The New York Post, a quarter of Americans experience burnout by the age of 30, but this isn’t surprising. Unless we learn what to do when we’re spiritually exhausted, and how to deal with this biblically and practically, rates will continue to skyrocket.
In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus challenges our fatigued states with these lines: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (NIV). A bit convincing, right? Jesus wants us to work hard, but He also wants us to trust Him—and that looks like finding a healthy balance between work and rest—not continuing to grind ourselves into the ground.
Signs of Spiritual Exhaustion
We’ve identified that spiritual exhaustion and burnout are problems for most of us. But what do we do? Here are some signs you might be spiritually exhausted:
While this list isn’t exhaustive and I’m not one to hand out diagnoses, these symptoms should cause points of concern in your overall well-being. Spiritual exhaustion, also known as spiritual burnout, can present itself in many forms, but the examples above show emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational dysfunction. Though it’s hard to process, identifying that you’re struggling is one of the best first steps towards hope and healing.
Why Exhaustion Doesn’t Mean Failure
If you’ve identified that you’re worn and weary, that’s good news. Why? Because identifying that something is wrong means you’re not afraid to admit that. Many Christians struggle to identify their struggles because they believe that their exhaustion makes them a failure. Friends, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Our God is a God who loves and is just. He created us and everything about you. But He didn’t come to shame the world—He came to bring life and life to the full. That includes our struggles. The presence of exhaustion isn’t a failure because it means we’re brave enough to admit that we’re weak and need someone else to help us through.
As 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (NIV).
Expressing our weaknesses and exhaustion to God (and others) allows us to find rest and support for our weary souls. It reminds us that we’re not in control but were never created to do this life alone. Our struggles allow us to put Galatians 6:2 into practice: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (ESV). What does this practically look like?
How to rest in God?
When we need a spiritual reset in our lives, I’ve found 3 things to be most effective: Confession, Mentorship, and a Mental Reset.
I mentioned earlier that bearing one another’s burdens fulfills the law of Christ. This is true not only in spiritual exhaustion but also in the immense suffering we often bear in this life. It also directly leads to confession.
1. Confession
Hearing the word “confession” used to send a chill down my spine. I got nervous, sweaty palms, and an immediate wave of anxiety. But friends, we have no reason to be afraid. Confession is an honest conversation with the Lord about how we’re feeling. Yes, it’s acknowledging where we’ve sinned and fallen short, but He’s not there to judge or condemn those who belong to Him. He’s there to forgive, hold us tightly, and help us move on.
2. Mentorship
Once we’ve told God where and how we’re struggling, asking someone you trust to support you is crucial. In my life, I’ve had a supportive family and friends to walk with me through my trials. But a spiritual mentor can help point out things we often miss or don’t see. Not only do they encourage us, but they also help us grow closer to the Lord.
A good spiritual mentor:
No mentor is perfect, but these are some guidelines to abide by when searching for a mentor that fits you and your needs.
3. Mental Reset
With clear consciences and hearts supported by trustworthy mentors, we can work towards spiritual wholeness by embracing a mental reset. What’s a mental reset? It looks different for everyone, but for me, it’s included setting aside strict agendas and asking the Lord to speak to me in new and fresh ways.
Typically, a mental reset involves taking time away from stress or triggering circumstances. It also involves praying, reflecting on thoughts and patterns, and slowing down to hear what the Spirit says. Finally, it may involve seeking professional help.
Confession, Mentorship, and a Mental Reset aren’t cures for spiritual exhaustion, but they’ve been helpful in my journey with burnout. If you’re also struggling, please know you’re not alone. Help is available, and you don’t need to be ashamed. God loves you right where you are, but He desires to bring rest and restoration to the deepest places of our souls.
Prayer
Dear God, Spiritual exhaustion happens to all of us from time to time. When we’re lost, confused, and burned out, would you help us to find strength and life in you? We know that you desire us to work hard for your Kingdom, but you don’t require us to work ourselves to exhaustion. Help us to find a practical balance between hard work and resting in the promises of your grace. Reveal to us what we need to do when we need a spiritual reset, and remind us that seeking help is nothing to be ashamed about. We love, praise, and thank you, Jesus. Amen.
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