I wasn't quite there but I was close. My godly grandmother had warned me
about having too many irons in the fire. I just wasn't listening.
My Type A personality often leads to trouble. I was young and
pastoring my first church. Being a typical energetic young man, I wanted
to move up the ladder which normally involved more education and more
positions. So began my journey.
Reflecting on the list makes me
weary. Working on a Master's Degree. Volunteering with literacy
societies. Teaching four days a week. Directing the Sunday School
department for our local church association. Helping a cousin with
family history. Preaching three times a week. Administering church
affairs. Visiting. Plus family time.
Revival was scheduled to
begin Sunday. Early that morning I began bleeding and was rushed to the
hospital. Diagnosis: a bleeding ulcer. Grandma was right. A week in the
hospital and recuperation helped me reflect on priorities.
Solomon wrote about burn out. In his plight to have and do it all, he
probably came extremely close to it if he didn't actually experience it.
Having wealth and wisdom at his disposal allowed him to enjoy endeavors
the average person can only dream about. But he paid a heavy price.
Life can be downright tiring as we make attempts to possess it all.
But when we get "it" we aren't satisfied. John D. Rockefeller-American
oil magnate and philanthropist, was once asked how much money is enough
money. He replied, "Just a little bit more."
Trouble is, the
little bit more philosophy can lead to burn out, physical problems,
crime and family break up. While our nature is to be selfish, God can
teach us contentment. We can't have it all no matter how diligently we
try. Paul said if he had food and clothing he would be content (I
Timothy 6:8). Seems like a good philosophy and one that would help us
avoid burn out. Let what God gives you be enough.
Prayer: God,
when we're tempted to run in many directions to fulfill selfish dreams,
remind us of what's important so burn out won't be our destiny.
Martin Wiles
mandmwiles@PROTECTED
Harleyville, South Carolina, USA
www.morningliteministry.com
Burned Out
Today's Bible Verse:
Ecclesiastes 1:8 "All things are wearisome, more than one can say.
The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing."
Burned Out
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