Dealing with spiritual burnout

 

It's not something many of us are comfortable  discussing, but most of us will encounter it at some point or another in our Christian lives - spiritual burnout. 

How do you know when this is happening to you? It's hard to say, but there are signs. It could be when you find yourself going through the motions without really feeling them, keeping up appearances instead of really living in Christ. When  prayer doesn't seem to offer the solace it once did. Or when the idea of going to church doesn't promise communion with your brothers and sisters in Christ, but an early morning out of bed that could be used to catch up on some sleep. 

It happens to everyone at some point, but it doesn't have to last. Here are some tips to put the fire back in your soul and get excited about your Christian walk again.

Suffering in silence is just about the worst thing you can do. It's leads to a self-reinforcing downward spiral. When experiencing spiritual burnout, it's easy to see yourself as a "bad Christian,” to feel ashamed of what's going on inside you and not want to tell anyone. But all that time burrowing inward only makes other people's spiritual walks look more and more effortless, which in turn makes you feel even worse for struggling, and on and on it goes.

Reach out to other Christians. Let them know your struggling and more than likely they'll be all too happy to share with you about how they've been struggling themselves. The myth of the flawless, effortless Christian is just that, a myth. We all have our bad days, our personal difficulties, and temptations. Each of us is flawed, but together we are strong. Lean on your Christian brothers and sisters, and let them lean on you in turn.

Spiritual burnout could be a sign that your regular routine isn't right for you anymore, or at least that you need to change things up a bit. If you've divvied up your spiritual life like a schedule of tasks – bible reading before bed, prayer before a meal, church group on Thursday, and so on, don't be surprised if it starts to feel like work after awhile.

Try something different. Instead of trying to stay away and read the bible through blurry, sleepy eyes, try taking it out of the house. Find a nice place outside and try reading it during the day, or at lunch, or whenever works with your schedule. Take God's word out into the world. You might be surprised what a change of scenery can do.

If a Church group or other regular meeting isn't working for you anymore, take a break for a few weeks. Let the passion return naturally. Or, if that doesn't work, find a new group. It's never been easier to organize or stay in touch with people than it is today, so take advantage of that.

Too often, prayer becomes routine. A rushed and muttered sentiment before digging into a plate of mash potatoes, or a quick recitation of worries before bed. But that isn't what prayer should be. The miracle of prayer, of open and direct communication with the most high should be appreciated for what it really is – the greatest blessing we have.

When you are feeling spiritually burnt out, take it to God. Pray, earnestly and honestly for his guidance and assistance. Take it all to him, all your worries, your self-doubt, your shame, and God in his infinite love will show you the way.

Burnout happens to us all, but it doesn't have to define us. As long as we are willing to make a few changes, open our hearts to our fellow Christians, and put our faith in God, the spark can always be found again.