Say no to overcommitment

Burnout is a big problem in the church today. Expecting too much from too few puts us in danger of wearing people out in well doing.

Marathon runners know it’s rarely the person who starts off at a blistering pace that wins the race. It is the one who runs the most consistent race.

Where community engagement is concerned, we need to do the same.

If we say yes to every opportunity and overcommit ourselves, we run the risk of things spinning out of control. It’s vital to be clear at the outset what it is that we are called to do. There are so many opportunities; some we will take on, but to others, we need to say no.

It’s not only the church that suffers if we overextend ourselves. If things break down, it may be disappointing for the church – but it can be devastating for those we’re seeking to help.

To overcommit or overextend doesn’t help anyone.

Last Updated 09 February 2009