Preventing BurnoutSample

What is the root of our burning out? Could it be that when we peel back the layers, we realize that we have spent less time abiding in Christ and His life and have instead tried to strive in our own efforts, desiring to accomplish much while only regressing in what truly matters?

In John 15, Jesus tells us that He is the vine, and those who abide in Him are the branches who are called to bear the fruit.

In order for us to bear fruit, we need to have life, and not just in the physical form but in the Spirit. Jesus took on humanity, lived as the holy Son of God, and died for our sins. He became our Vine, and it's because of what He did that bearing fruit is even possible for us.

As His children, the key to our growth, success, and fruit is abiding in Him, not striving in our own efforts. When we realize that apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5) and return to Him in repentance, we will begin to enjoy much of what may now have become a burden. Our walk with Him was never intended to feel burdensome and dreadful. He says His burden is light (Matthew 11:28). It was meant to flow out of our love and gratitude.

Remember that if you sense the fire of God dwindling in your heart but continue to work on the physical tasks at hand, ignoring your spiritual life, you will not produce fruit, just empty work.

You were never created to be a machine that pumps out work. You are a branch. What makes you fruitful in work, ministry, and life is not hustling or working hard but abiding deeply in Him and taking care of your inner life.

Today, take a moment to reflect on areas where you may be acting more like a machine rather than living as a branch connected to the Vine. Consider what changes you might need to make to ensure you're living from the Vine.

Let's Pray:

Lord, I return to You with my whole heart. I have gotten so busy doing stuff for you that I have missed out on abiding in You. Forgive me. Teach me to rely not on my own efforts but on Your life-giving presence. Let me be a fruitful branch, yielding fruit that glorifies You. Amen.