When is it ok to call it quits? When do we get to take a break? It can seem like a constant fight, constant struggle when you are in ministry. You have pastors and leaders over you, leaders with you and people under you and at times your at odds with everyone.
When can we step back and reassess? When is it good to question what you are doing?
Never, always, sometimes, I don’t know.
Let’s take a look at the battle weary soldier surrounded by the enemy, fighting for his life. Not the time to call it quits, I think. The temptation is certainly there. Just give up, let them shoot you and be done with it. But there are others around you, a purpose inside of you. That is where you must know what you are fighting for. This is the time to scream at yourself and in the face of fear, “MOVE OUT! Get up, get going, fight!”
You might not know this, but one of the hardest times is when the “battle” is over and there is a time of peace. Our purpose, our calling can seem so clear when we are fighting. Then it all evaporates when there is a lull. Time to take a break? Yes. Time to look for a new fight? Yes. Time to get some feeding and rest? Yes. Time to reassess, question, listen, get into God’s word? Yes. Because, as a soldier, you know the enemy will be back. You know that it is only a matter of time. Time to call it quits? Please hear me. Check your wounds. Be honest with your brothers and sisters that hold you up. Ministry can cut deep. This is no place for wimpy christians. We will get beat up and we have to have those around us who can honestly tell us when we’re to bloodied to continue. We need bandages, ointment, stitches, breaks reset, tourniquets from time to time, people to lean on, just like any warrior would. Know the medics in your life, and if you don’t have any, find them – be them for others.
And yes, in the end, there is a time when we pass the sword, the staff, the mantle, the fight onto those who can continue. But let that be at the end. Don’t see it until you’ve got no more fight to give. Many are leaving, giving up before it is time. Don’t.
“It will be worth it all, when we see Jesus.” So the hymn says. Live more. Love more. Fight more.
Don’t give up.
The Healing Worshipper 
I try to re-evaluate the wisdom of homeschooling once a year to make sure it is still working for us, then once I decide, I drop it and don’t think about it again for a year.
WOW! OH, yes! I kinda feel like that today. I’m tired. Too many people! Too much stuff! Too many problems! Too much pain! Dear friends dying! Let me stop for awhile! I just feel SO weary! It’s Sunday and it all starts again tomorrow! I’m overwhelmed! Overloaded! Over…..!
Met a family today who have lived across the street for four years and we never saw each other until now. Whatever! How do I do it, Lord? Be sure You are watching me lest I burn out in a very embarrassing way or time or place! Heart aching for loved ones near and far! Come close, dear Lord, and make me sure I am walking in Your way! I love You and I am, right at this moment, not sure of very much else! Well, for sure You loved me before I loved You!