By Sheree Craig
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands.
I see this happening during the long hours at work with other employees. I feel it myself from time to time as well. Burnout can creep in quickly with high stress situations. The world today throws overwhelming stress into daily routines: financial loss, virtual classroom for children, social isolation, no routine, health concerns, countless fears, etc.
Prior to the pandemic, burnout still existed; but options existed for relaxation to recover from burnout. Vacation spots allowed for a short getaway from daily stress. Family gatherings allowed for loved ones to share life troubles and process emotions. Church groups could interact face to face, embrace with a hug, and provide comfort when needed most. We had options to fill up our spiritual tanks and find emotional healing from the broken world.
Living in this pandemic, political warfare, societal animosity, social isolation, and fears of illness ramps up the risk of burnout in life. With social interaction shutdown, where can one turn for emotional processing? Discouraged human contact leaves emptiness inside, especially for those that feel comfort through a hug or touch. This broken world raises the risk for people to find negative coping mechanisms: addiction, relapse, violence . . .
As Christians, our responsibility to our God in Heaven is greater now than ever. We must stand on His Truth, share His Love among all, and guide others to Him. He is the answer to all this burnout. He will never shut down. He will always offer close contact. He will be there in every situation to help process emotions.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
As the season of Christmas 2020 approaches, our events may look different than they have in the past. Some traditions may be cancelled. Among all of this, one thing remains the same. . .celebration of the birth of our Savior. This is the time of year I cherish most. I love the Bible reading about the birth of Jesus. Every part of the story offers hope, love, comfort, and peace. Every individual plays an important part in the birth of our Savior.
Mary, the one I love to read about, said yes to God in a big way. She trusted His plan though she faced hardship. We must trust God through all this hardship. He will walk alongside and continue to shine through us as Christians. He offers hope and comfort.
Joseph struggled with the idea but came to trust and follow God’s plan. Doubt creeps in when life does not make sense, or we face hardship that society deems worthy of condemnation. Stay strong. Keep your eyes on God. Know that He will bring you through any hardship. He offers love and peace.
Read the complete story for yourself in the Bible. It is filled with individuals standing strong in the name of Jesus. They each look to God for guidance. We need to stay strong in this time, focus on the reason for Christmas, and spread joy to others. Check on loved ones virtually, with a phone call, or send a card or email. Give to those in need of clothing, food, finances, etc. Spread joy in this time of trials. Help the world focus on God and hope.
God will heal burnout by using us as vessels to lighten the load of others. Every little act helps. God will take your faith in Him and turn it into a blessing to others. If you suffer from burnout, reach out to someone, and share your troubles. You are not in this alone.
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 31:8).
