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“And let us not be weary in well doing for in due season, we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:9–10)
A common statement I have heard pastors say over the years is, “I’m just tired.” It wasn’t dramatic nor pretense but an honest expression. Ministry has always had its weight, but in seasons of rapid change and prolonged pressure, that weight somehow doubles. You’re adjusting to new realities, trying to keep people encouraged while your own strength feels thin, and at times it all piles up. Many pastors and leaders quietly whisper the same thing: I’m tired. If that’s where you are, here are simple but life-giving steps that can help you breathe again and find fresh strength.
1. Invite a few trusted people to pray for you: A small circle that lifts you and your family before God consistently can make a surprising difference. Knowing someone is interceding for you has a way of steadying your heart. If you already have a prayer team, let them know you need covering in this season.
2. Give yourself permission to rest: Ministry doesn’t stop, but your body and mind need space to recover. Take a real day off, stay home, sleep, go on a vacation and unplug. Your church is better served by a healthy shepherd than an exhausted one.
3. Read something just for delight: Many pastors only read for sermons, research, or leadership development. Pick up something light, enjoyable or refreshing. A biography, a book on travel or adventure. Let your mind wander in a healthier direction for a bit.
4. Get outside and move: A simple walk can slow your pulse and clear your head. It shifts your focus and opens room for prayer without pressure. Step outside, breathe a little deeper, and let your soul catch up with your body.
5. Hand off one task: There’s always at least one thing on your plate that someone else can handle. Choose it, delegate it, and resist the urge to hover. Most people love the chance to help when they know their pastor is carrying a heavy load.
6. Share the pulpit or teaching role temporarily: Let a trusted associate, deacon, or guest minister carry the preaching or teaching for a week. A short break can restore clarity you didn’t know you had lost.
7. Slip away for silence and solitude: Even a few hours in a quiet space with God can reset the heart. Jesus consistently withdrew from the crowds to meet with His Father. If the Son of God needed that rhythm, so do we.
8. Talk to someone who can listen: A friend, mentor, counsellor or spiritual father can help you untangle what you’re feeling. Ministry fatigue is not a weakness. It’s a human signal that you need support. Don’t walk through it alone.
9. Guard your mind and speak grace to yourself: Weariness often brings unhelpful thoughts. Notice them, reject them, and remind yourself of God’s goodness in your journey. Gratitude has a way of lighting even the dimmest seasons.
10. Ask God directly for renewal: There’s no prayer too ordinary for Him. Tell Him you’re weary. Ask for fresh strength. Ask for healing in the places no one else sees. He restores the soul, and He knows exactly where to touch yours.
Pastor, our utmost prayer is this:
- May God breathe on you again.
- May He reach into the places no one else can reach, strengthen what has weakened, and refresh your spirit in ways only He can.
- May His peace guard your heart, and may His joy return to you in full measure, in the name of Jesus.
(C) Church Health Centre 2025
churchhealthcentre.com
