We think of ministry as a wonderful vocation (which it is), and while the work is hard (very), it is also rewarding (extremely). Careers that have the combination “very hard” and “very rewarding” are emotionally intense and physically draining. This prayer is for everyone who might be experiencing a season of tiredness, or even burnout, in their ministry work.
Lord, I know with all of my heart that You are the one true and everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. I adore You with everything that I am. The fact that You will not grow tired or weary, ever, is something I really could never understand. When I entered ministry, I knew it would be hard on many fronts, and without Your sustenance I could not accomplish anything; yet You have allowed me to learn and achieve so much. I confess that there have been times where I was so overwhelmed I thought I should give up. Ministry is the hardest job I have ever had, and when I look around I can see that others in ministry are also tired, even those whom I know are energetic and dedicated. You continue to give me strength when I have been weary and give me a boost when I am at my weakest. Every time I lean on You and put my hope in You, You always faithfully renew my strength. By Your power, and only by Your power, will I succeed in reaching people for You; You provide the energy, the brain power and the will to allow me to not grow weary, and to never give up. Thank you for your awesomeness! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Isaiah 40:28-31
28Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.