Ten Signs You Need To Stop & Spiritually Recharge: Part Two
Spiritual burnout is not only common in the Christian movement, but it is also easily obtainable. When passion is lost, it opens up a space for mediocre effort in ministry. Here are five signs you need to stop, reflect, and recharge.
Missing deadlines
Ephesians 5:15-17 New International Version
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.
Another consequence of procrastination is not meeting deadlines. These can be work deadlines or simply paying bills on time. We need to make the most of our time. Schedule into your day small steps. A task-oriented day is a goal-oriented day—plan with purpose.
Lack of rest
Matthew 6:34 NIV
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Sleeplessness causes my mind to spiral into many questions and unknowns. It becomes necessary to step back and spend some time on personal health. That includes getting adequate sleep, drinking enough water, moving in some way physically, and eating healthfully.
Overeating
John 6:35 NIV
Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God
No matter what feelings you are going through, food is always there. New job, let's go out to dinner. Sad day, ice cream to the rescue. Food can be a procrastination tool, numb pain, keep you socially acceptable, and cure boredom. If you find yourself eating more than the required meals + snacks for the day. Ask yourself why.
Sickness
At some point, our bodies slow down from lack of rest. Feeling sluggish is the body's way of telling us that something is not right. A sick feeling often thrives from sleepless nights. Pay attention to sickness; it allows us to discern if rest is that we need.
Inability to pray
Matthew 11:28 KJV
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Finally, the failure to pray is a sign you need to step back and take a break. Misplaced priorities lead to a lack of prayer. Exhibit self-discipline and dedicate your first hours of the morning to devotion. The best practice we can have is to pray, especially when we do not feel like it.