6 Signs That You Need A Break From Serving

Smart leaders understand that there will be a time where they will need to step back and take a break from their role. In the simplest form this is why our employers offer vacation time. They understand that we work better when we are refreshed.

The same applies to church volunteers.

Every now and again volunteers simply need a break from serving.

Unfortunately, most people will not take a break because they feel guilty that they are giving up their post in the church.

Now I will say deciding to take an indefinite break from serving in the church is unbiblical and sinful! You should not do that!

God gifted you uniquely to serve others so that they may glorify Jesus. I don’t think the majority of volunteers serving in church are looking to quit serving forever.

[Read: 16 Ministry Quotes That Will Encourage You To Keep Serving]

However, most volunteers are not looking for a way out, they are simply looking to catch their breath.

Think of this concept as a sabbatical from serving. Albeit this is a short sabbatical, but the principals hold true. Sabbaticals are meant to re-energize, re-focus, and renew leaders so they can jump back into ministry.

When our volunteers are spiritually refreshed our ministries are positively impacted.

Wondering if you need a mini-sabbatical from serving?

Here are 6 signs that you need a break from serving at church:

1. You Are In A Spiritual Drought

Are you lacking in spiritual passion, growth, and excitement?

Trying to serve the church when you are spiritually dry means you’re trying to do God’s work in your power. This always leads to burnout.

2. You Dread Attending Church

Do you dread attending your church?

Are you avoiding people when you walk in the door, hoping to make it to your group’s room unnoticed then slip out the back door when worship is over?

Whether there is a broken relationship, unconfessed sin, or burnout, dreading church attendance causes negative emotions towards God’s church and His people.

3. You Are Convinced No One Can Do What You Do

In your mind, you are indispensable. Without you, the church would fall apart!

When you start thinking you are essential it causes an arrogant view of yourself and leads to a small view of Jesus.

Don’t forget, Jesus is the head of the church (not you) and He builds and sustains His church (once again, not you).

4. You Are Serving In Too Many Ministries

When you are spread too thin, you will eventually fail at all of your responsibilities.

It might be time for you to stop focusing on every ministry the church has to offer and see how God has uniquely gifted you to serve in one or two ministries. When you narrow your focus you are able to invest more deeply.

5. You Are More Concerned With The Process Than The People

When your focus shifts from ministering to the people to maintaining a program, you might need to take a break and ask God to give you a renewed vision and mission.

An easy tell is to ask the question, “Am I protecting the program or providing for people?”

6. You Are Unwilling To Submit To The Church’s Leadership

If you are questioning every decision simply because you don’t want it done “their way” then it is time for you to take a step back from serving.

There is no room for pride in the local church.

Here is how to take a break

• Communicate with Your Leadership that You Need a Break

A strong leader will understand and respect your decision and help make accommodations while you step back. Make sure that you stay in contact and set a definite time period for your rest.

• Continue to Attend Worship

If you need a break from serving take one, but don’t take a break from church. You are created to worship. Skipping out on corporate worship and small groups will only contribute to your spiritual drought.

• Dive Deep in Prayer

Prayer has a unique way of encouraging and correcting us. Resting in Jesus means we commune with Him.

• Consider Your Talents and Giftedness

You might feel burned out because you were not serving in the correct area. Taking a break from serving will allow you to gain some clarity.

• Return with a Renewed Spirit

When you are ready, hop back into serving the ministry. But before you get too deep, remember what contributed to your burnout and establish some boundaries on the front end.

Now What? 

Taking a strategic step back can set you up for some awesome ministry down the road.

So step back, take a couple week sabbatical, and prepare for God to use you for 40 more years in the local church.