As the calendar flips into December, your to-do list multiplies. Other people are reveling in the lights, the parties, the jolly music. And you’re working late trying to nail down extra rehearsal times, volunteers, and tech setups. A marathon of logistics. It really is unfortunate; worship leaders should experience the celebrations of Christ’s coming! He came to set us free, but free is the last thing you feel during this time.
If you feel spiritually fatigued by the workload, we don’t want you to fall into apathy. Here are some ways you can re-center your heart on Christ.
Recognize the Warning Signs Early
Burnout in ministry rarely comes out of nowhere. Often it creeps in: constant exhaustion, a nagging dread of rehearsals, cynicism creeping into prayer, worship feeling more like duty than devotion. This is especially common during heavy seasons like Christmas. If you notice these signs, treat them as early warnings, not weaknesses or failures.
Ready for a mind grenade? God created your body and mind. Woah. But seriously, fatigue is a sign from God’s design that we need to slow down. We need rest. Trying to push through until you either finish or drop dead is not the answer. Have you ever been in a terrible mood only to realize you just need some sleep? We do not function properly without rest. If you want to be at your best for your team and congregation, you must take time to take care of yourself. It isn’t selfish. It’s how God made us.
Re-center With Daily Worship
Hopefully worship doesn’t trigger a sense of impending doom at this point. Never forget that worship is a gift from God. It may be your job, but don’t leave it at work. Worship includes daily scripture and prayer, but it is so much more.
What do you love in this life? Nature? Go on a hike; talk with God about how beautiful the trees are. Tell God which trees are your favorite! He would love to hear all about it.
Movie lover? Watch your favorite. Thank God for good stories, beautiful scores, deep themes, talented actors. It’s all from Him.
Never trivialize your passions. God made you this way. Pursuing the passions that He gave you (big or small) and thanking Him for them is a beautiful form of worship and rest. You will grow closer to God and be more prepared for next day’s challenges.
Re-evaluate What Success Means
It’s easy to fall into the trap of equating “Christmas ministry success” with bigger productions, more services, perfect performances, and full pews. But that definition can take a toll on your heart.
Let’s define success like this: have you asked the Spirit to guide you? Are you praying for wisdom and favor? Wow, now that’s a successful Christmas ministry!
God does not move through stress and anxiety. Whenever you feel those things, do not assume they are God’s way of telling you you need to do more. Instead, just tell God every day that you are here, willing to go in any direction He takes you. Then move forward. Show up where you are needed, and trust God with the rest.
Release and Trust Others
You don’t have to carry all the weight alone. Pretty much every worship-ministry burnout story comes down to one person trying to do too much. “If you want something done right, do it yourself” is only ‘true’ when done right actually means done perfectly. Let’s push back on perfection, though. Why does everything need to be perfect? Is it because you just want to glorify God so badly? Or is it because you want to be glorified for your amazing service?
Perfection is born of pride. God way prefers a humble heart that asks their fellow brother or sister in Christ for help. It is hard, but God loves when we do hard things for His glory. Share responsibilities. Trust others. Trust God to work through everyone involved, not just through you.
Remember What Christmas is About
If you’re feeling drained right now, know this: you’re not alone. Many worship leaders wrestle with weariness, especially during Christmas. But serving well during this season doesn’t require you to sacrifice yourself for perfection. Nope, that was Jesus’s job. That’s why we’re celebrating, because none of us get it right. But He did. Remember to use His gift; ask the Helper to help you, and rest in the fact that as long as you are pursuing a service that glorifies our God, our God will see you. He’s proud of the work you’re doing.
