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- Beware the Burnout
Programming Note
I am smack-dab in the middle of my Seminary semester, and this courseload has been heavier than expected. I'll take some of my own advice and scale back on electives, such as this newsletter. For the time being, I'll send these out weekly--I hope they encourage you over the weeks.
As always, I would love to hear from you--what you need in your faith walk, things you like/don't like. Holler at me!
Now, back to the message!
What has been, it is what will be, And what has been done, it is what will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun. All things are wearisome; No one can tell it. The eye is not satisfied with seeing, Nor is the ear filled with hearing.
Perspective
This is what we Americans call “the grind”. The day-in, day-out work where only margin gain is had. Even King Solomon suffered from the burnout of “the grind”. If a king ascended at the height of God’s fulfilled generational promises grew wearisome with our temporal existence and seemingly fruitless endeavors, what chance do we have of avoiding it? Answer: none.
What we have done, we often have to do again: the same reports, the same lead-generating social posts, and the same client calls. Bleck! Sure, there’s value and a good steward will be thrifty, efficient, and gainful, but let’s not reduce our life down to a formula. The formulas grow tiresome. As our life dulls and the years pass, we look back and realize our relationships have dimmed—both physical and spiritual. Instead of being obsessed with future-focused metrics, enjoy the moment today.
This all requires balance, so don’t misconstrue me to be absolutist and extreme; however, if the Lord wills, we will not have a tomorrow. It’s a cliché that Solomon clearly learned himself.
So, as we go about our days, let’s keep the right perspective. Solomon advocated for eating, drinking, joy, and spending time with your spouse. Those are all good things. If you’re feeling burnout, let yourself take the hint. No matter the podcasts, newsletters, colleagues, or other voices you listen to, we all feel it. So, respect it when it arrives and take care of yourself.
If you don’t, you’ll end up as depressed as our friend Solomon and you’ll only be fooling yourself.
Memorizing His words
Each week, we'll string short verses of Jesus' words together. Take a moment to etch them on your heart so you can take joy in His promises for you.
Matthew 5, ESV
v3: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven
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