Youth workers, let’s be real for a second. Ministry is amazing, but it’s also exhausting. Between late-night texts from students, last-minute sermon rewrites, and somehow always being in charge of stacking chairs, it’s easy to run on empty. But here’s the truth: you can’t pour into others if your own soul is running on fumes. So before you consider a career change to llama farming (tempting, right?), here are seven practical ways to let God pour into you—so you can keep pouring into others.
1. Prioritize Time with Jesus (Yes, Really)
I know, I know—this should go without saying. But let’s be honest: how many times have we encouraged students to have quiet time while our own Bibles are gathering dust? Jesus didn’t call us to just do ministry; He called us to be with Him (Mark 3:14). So block off time with God like it’s an unmovable staff meeting—because, well, it kinda is. This also means not more sermon prep time but just being with God. (Having a hard time separating that, listen to God’s word instead of reading it… it works)
2. Sabbath Like a Boss
God took a day off. You should too. So stop feeling guilty about resting. Take a full day to unplug, rest, and do things that bring you joy. Binge that show. Go for a hike. Eat tacos. And do it all with your family. Whatever fills your tank. Your soul (and your ministry) will thank you.
3. Say “No” Without Feeling Like a Villain
Not every opportunity is your calling. It’s okay to say no to things that drain you. Jesus didn’t heal every sick person or accept every speaking engagement (Luke 4:42-43). If He had boundaries, you can too. Practice this phrase: “I’d love to, but I can’t.” Then go take a nap.
4. Find a Mentor (Or at Least Someone Who Isn’t a Teenager)
You spend a ton of time pouring into others, but who’s pouring into you? Find a mentor, a counselor, or a solid friend who will listen, challenge you, and remind you that your identity isn’t based on your last sermon. You need people who will pray for you and speak life into you. Bonus points if they buy you coffee.
5. Take Care of Your Body (Yes, That Means Sleeping and Not Living on Pizza)
God made your body, and He actually cares how you treat it (1 Cor. 6:19-20). Get enough sleep. Eat some vegetables. Move your body in a way that doesn’t make you cry. Your ability to minister effectively is directly tied to how well you steward the body God gave you. Also, maybe drink water once in a while instead of just Mountain Dew.
6. Laugh Often (Because Joy is a Ministry Tool)
Ministry can be serious, but you don’t have to be serious all the time. Laughter is good for the soul (Proverbs 17:22), and it reminds you that ministry is fun—even when the middle schoolers are being, well, middle schoolers. Find humor in the chaos. It’s what will keep you sane.
7. Remember That Ministry is God’s Work, Not Yours
At the end of the day, you’re not the Savior—Jesus is. Your job is to be faithful, not to fix everything. Release the pressure. Trust that God is working even when you can’t see it. Your role is obedience, not omnipotence. Let that truth set you free.
Final Thoughts
Youth ministry is a marathon, not a sprint. If you want to make it for the long haul (without burning out or impulsively adopting a herd of llamas), you’ve got to take care of your soul. Let God fill you up first—because when you’re running on His strength, you’ll be able to pour into others from a place of abundance, not exhaustion.
Now go take a deep breath, drink some water, and schedule that Sabbath day. You’ve got this! 🚀
