Ministry Burnout: Taking a Break in Your Personal Oasis

https://pixabay.com/en/users/victorrdyrnes-4280372/

a resource from Rev. Mike Meñez

The Oxford dictionary defines “Oasis” as “a fertile spot in a desert, where water is found”. It is a resting place in the midst of a rough and rugged journey.

Sometimes, ministry can become a desert for workers. For several different reasons and at different magnitudes, many times we find ourselves feeling exhausted, spent, and with nothing more to give. It is at these times that we need to “take a break” from the severity of things and just begin to find our “personal oasis”.

The Lord God Himself set us an example in the Sabbath. He wired us so that we need rests and breaks. In guilt, a lot of times, we “work our asses off” thinking it’ll make up for our shortcomings. But it never does… does it? Busyness doesn’t equate to spirituality, nor does it result to intimacy.

We all need to establish our own “personal oases”. I used the plural form here because I believe we should have a number of them. It should start with our time away with God… With all the pressures we face, we need to find that “rest” primarily in God’s presence.

Our family should be our next “oasis”. Find meaningful time with your spouse and children.

Your next “oasis” should be a support group of your peers and friends. We all need regular fellowship and “shock absorbers” (as we fondly call them at times).

Another good “oasis” could be productive diversions like a sport or a hobby you like to do that can easily get your mind off some pressures even for just a short time.

Take a break! Establish your own “personal oases” and be refreshed again and invigorated for the work!

“….the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work…” Exod. 20:10

“1My soul finds rest in God alone.... 2He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” Psalm 62:1-2