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In Galatians 6:9, Paul writes,
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
That verse hits differently when you’re in the thick of youth ministry.
Because while you’re investing in students, planning retreats, managing volunteers, and carrying burdens that no one else sees… it’s easy to grow weary. And sometimes, even the harvest feels far off.
If you’re a youth pastor or ministry leader who’s starting to feel tired in your bones, discouraged in your heart, or unsure whether you can keep going — this post is for you.
Recognizing the Signs of Ministry Burnout
Burnout doesn’t always hit overnight. Often, it builds quietly. Here are some common red flags:
1. Deep soul exhaustion
It’s more than tiredness from a busy week. It’s a lingering heaviness — even after rest.
“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
2. Disconnection from joy or passion
You used to light up during events or teaching. Now, you just want to get through it.
This can be a sign that your heart needs renewing — not your calling removed.
3. Questioning your effectiveness
You wonder if you’re actually making a difference. That student isn’t showing up. That parent complained. That event didn’t go how you hoped.
“Your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” — 1 Corinthians 15:58
4. Isolation or hiding
You don’t want to admit you’re struggling — maybe not even to God.
But Jesus modeled retreat, vulnerability, and friendship. You were never meant to do this alone.
What Scripture Teaches About Rest and Renewal
Burnout isn’t a badge of honor. Scripture points us to rhythms of rest, Sabbath, and abiding — not hustle until you collapse.
- Jesus rested — He often withdrew from the crowds to be alone with the Father (Luke 5:16).
- Elijah crashed — In 1 Kings 19, after a major ministry victory, Elijah ran for his life and wanted to give up. But God didn’t rebuke him — He gave him rest, food, and comfort.
- God modeled Sabbath — Not because He was tired, but because rest is sacred. (Genesis 2:2-3)
You are not superhuman. You are not Jesus. You are a servant. And God wants you healthy and whole, not just your ministry growing.
Practical Ways to Combat Ministry Burnout (That Are Also Deeply Spiritual)
Let’s talk about how to move forward — not just with strategy, but with soul care.
1. Return to the presence of God, not just the pressure of ministry
It’s easy to read the Bible for your students — and forget to read it for your soul.
Spend time with God as a son or daughter, not just a shepherd.
“Abide in me, and I in you… apart from me you can do nothing.” — John 15:4-5
2. Build boundaries that protect your spiritual and emotional health
Jesus often said “no” to crowds in order to say “yes” to solitude, prayer, and people closest to Him.
Ministry with no margin leads to mission fatigue.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23
3. Rediscover your why
Before you planned events, answered emails, or posted on Instagram — you were called to love and disciple students. Return to that calling.
Ask yourself: What drew me into ministry? When did I last feel joy in it? What do I need to release?
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10
4. Let others carry part of the weight
You don’t have to do everything. Let volunteers lead. Raise up student leaders. Share the load.
Even Jesus sent His disciples out two by two (Mark 6:7).
5. Get honest with someone
You need people outside your ministry bubble to check in on you — not your numbers, not your programs, just you. A friend, mentor, counselor, pastor.
Confession brings healing. And sometimes just admitting you’re tired is the beginning of new strength.
“Therefore confess your sins to one another… so that you may be healed.” — James 5:16
Encouragement for the Road Ahead
We believe in you.
We believe your calling matters.
We believe your presence in students’ lives is shaping eternity.
We believe that God is not finished with you yet.
And if you’re walking through burnout — or on the edge of it — we want to remind you that you’re not alone. You’re not failing. You’re human. And God is with you.
Take a step today to care for your own soul the way you care for others.
We know ministry can be hard — which is exactly why we’ve designed BigStuf Camps to be just as life-giving for leaders as they are for students. Through three Leader Lab sessions featuring insight from trusted ministry voices, opportunities to connect with other youth pastors and small group leaders, and a week surrounded by worship, laughter, and purpose, we hope you leave BigStuf not just encouraged, but refreshed. Our prayer is that your time at camp helps fill your cup for the year ahead — because what you do matters, and we want you in it for the long haul.
