“Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder.” (Romans 12:12 MSG)
How can we prevent burnout? How do we keep ourselves fueled when we are continually being drained? I have tried the usual recommendations of exercise, getting enough sleep, eating healthfully, finding support, setting boundaries, taking breaks, doing something creative, etc. All of these techniques can delay burnout to a certain extent. Unfortunately, we cannot keep ourselves going indefinitely on our own. The world drains us faster than we can replenish ourselves.
Once we realize that we have run out of steam, there are two options: we can either quit, or we can depend on God. When we have exhausted our natural resources and talents, we are ready for the supernatural. We learn to look expectantly upon God, patiently waiting, transfixed in prayer. Supernatural grace plugs up the holes and pours new energy and wisdom into us. This is the only sustainable way to stay encouraged and motivated when the world is crumbling around us.
Lord, grant us supernatural grace so that we can stay hopeful, patient, and faithful no matter what our circumstances.
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