Have you ever heard the phrase, “It’s always something”? Whether it’s bills, the death of a loved one, a broken relationship, parenting, maintaining a job, or trying to make time for your marriage, life often feels like a constant balancing act. When we have so much on our plates, we can become so accustomed to carrying the weight of anxiety that we fail to recognize what it is doing to our bodies. Over time, if left unaddressed, that weight can lead to burnout.
Burnout can look like a short temper, loss of interest in things you once enjoyed, lack of motivation, fatigue, or even feelings of hopelessness.
Yet, we can find hope in Scripture that helps us pause, reflect, and either prevent burnout or overcome it if we find ourselves already experiencing it. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Let’s break that down. Jesus does not tell us to come to Him only after our problems are solved, our burdens are lifted, or our hearts are at peace. He invites us to come as we are—heavy, tired, and overwhelmed—and allow Him access to every part of our lives.
Did you know that God wants to go through life with you?
That may sound obvious, but there is a difference between believing God exists and allowing Him access to every area of your life. He wants all of us, not just the parts we have together.
Think about your first time swimming. You are in an unfamiliar place where you feel like you have little to no control. The water moves around you, and it can feel overwhelming. But with the help of an instructor, you find peace as you learn. Panic causes you to fight against the water, but that is a losing battle. The instructor is in the water with you, guiding you and making sure you do not drown.
So, would you rather fight the water alone or find peace in knowing help is available?
God is the same way. Sometimes we find ourselves in seasons that feel heavier and more unbearable than others. God never intended for us to figure everything out on our own. He is calling us to allow Him to be our instructor—the One we lean on, trust, and respect because of His wisdom and authority.
In Psalm 46:10, God tells us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” In this psalm, we see the promise of His lordship over our lives.
Although we may not know why life feels so heavy right now, we can find hope in knowing that we have a Savior who is readily available to help us. After all, how could we know the blessing of rest if we had never experienced heaviness? How would we know He is Lord over our lives if we never surrendered our burdens to Him?
It is time to stop fighting the water. Let go and accept God’s help. Being still means accepting His rest and peace while watching Him take dominion over the problems that once threatened to swallow us. All the while, He is teaching us how to swim through them.
Come to God weak, weary, and burdened. He wants to provide you with the comfort, peace, and assurance that come from knowing who He is.