Keep the Fire Lit

#2 Burning the candle at both ends

Fall is upon us. Some have already started school, others will begin next week. Regardless of whether or not you are affected by the eminent school year, we must maintain our balance to keep from burning out. Do you ever feel like you’ve overdone it? Of course, all of us have. Years ago, I was burning the candle at both ends, married to a small-groups pastor, mother of two school-aged children, and involved in church, school, and community activities. Who was I fooling? 

One day, I decided I had enough. I decided to find replacements for some of my church and school commitments to focus on my family. My decision to give away some of my commitments wasn’t a matter of quitting; it was obedience to let God be the leader of my time. This was the remedy for my burnout, yet it also prevented further damage to my faith.  

#1 romans-12-11

The changes didn’t make sense to some people in our church because they were counting on me to do an important job. I knew if I didn’t obey God, there would be only embers and ashes left from the state of burnout I was in. Philip Yancey says, “Faith means believing in advance what will only make sense in reverse.” 

Romans 12:11–12 reminds us, “Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times.”

#3 woman in distress prayingAt times we must burn the candle at both ends, but to prevent ourselves from burnout, choose to serve your Master. Be alert, asking Him what’s next and then cheerfully doing what is next.

Let’s pray, Father, thank you for your plan for my life; let me stay connected and in communication with you—the source of my energy—so I do not burn out. I want to shine my light brightly, fueled and aflame with the power of your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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This Post Has One Comment

  1. Lori Byrd

    Thank you so much for this Sheryl!
    I have been struggling with this very thing for the past year and a half and I am actively trying to embrace the philosophy of saying no to the good things so I can say yes to the best things
    It is difficult and often times I feel like I may be letting others down but ultimately my family is my ministry and if I don’t have enough time for them except for the leftovers I am failing!!
    Thank you

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