Read this encouragement from INCM Interim Executive Director, Heather Eichler.
Some seasons of ministry feel like a sprint. Summer can be one of those seasons: VBS, camp, family events, a more inconsistent schedule for volunteers, and a different rhythm in our ministries and own homes (and so much fun). As we start to make the turn toward fall (yes, already!), it can feel like we’re running from one busy season straight into another without catching our breath.
Our best posture as leaders is one that approaches ministry like a marathon, not a sprint.
In Hebrews 12:1–2, we’re encouraged to run with perseverance the race marked out for us and to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. It reminds us that this race is uniquely marked out for each of us, and the only way to endure is by staying focused on the One who called us to it in the first place.
If we want to stay in ministry for the long haul and thrive while doing it, here are three ways we can help to pace ourselves as we run our race:
1. Intentionally Choose Joy
Children’s ministry includes so many incredible moments; kids discovering God’s love or getting excited about worship, volunteers finding their right fit on the team and families walking toward Jesus. It also includes budget meetings, kids navigating real life hurt, volunteer no-shows, and spiritual battles that drain your heart. It’s easy for joy to get buried beneath the weight of what we’re carrying. But friend, joy is part of our calling.
In Philippians 4:4, while sitting in prison, Paul wrote, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Joy wasn’t something he felt because of his circumstances, it was a choice he made because his life was rooted in Christ.
As you finish out summer and step into fall, ask: What are the wins, big or small, that you can celebrate from this season? What can build into your daily rhythm to help you access joy? Maybe it’s laughing with your team or sharing stories of where you’ve seen God at work.
Joy is not a feeling to wait for, but a practice we can pursue.
2. Lean into Community
Paul never traveled alone for long. He often had others who were walking with him. When he was discouraged we see examples of how God used community to lift him up.
In Acts 28:15, when believers came out to meet Paul on his way to Rome, Scripture says, “At the sight of these people Paul thanked God and was encouraged.”
Even the most seasoned leaders need people around them. Who can you reconnect with, that will remind you why you do what you do, or speak truth and encouragement when you need it most? Take a step toward connection… you’re not alone and you don’t have to lead like you are.
3. Reset Your Rhythms
One of the best things we can do before stepping into a new season is to reset our spiritual rhythms.
Mark 6:30-32 says, “The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’ So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.”
After a busy stretch of ministry, the disciples were exhausted. (Some of you can relate.) Jesus didn’t tell them to push through, he invited them to take a break and rest. He modeled how important it is to make space for stillness. Rest isn’t laziness, it’s obedience to the pace Jesus set.
Do you need more physical rest, like sleep; or soul rest, like unhurried time with the Lord? What about your rhythms of prayer and worship? What is one practice you can re-establish in your routine that will restore your soul?
You were called, equipped, and sent on purpose. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. We need to pace our race. And as we do, we can trust that God will meet us with fresh strength, mile after mile.
