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Change Your Routine: 25 Ways to Feel Refreshed in Ministry

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Do you need a change in routine? Has ministry left you exhausted or even burned out? Then take a few minutes to read through the ideas and Bible insights below. You’ll be glad you did, and so will the kids you minister to!

All ministry leaders—paid, unpaid, volunteer, or staff—are passionate about church work. Working hard and going far beyond the extra mile is a lifestyle. You invest yourself wholeheartedly in what you believe.

Our churches need enthusiastic, energy-filled people diligently working to reach kids for God. And so, for the kingdom’s sake, it’s just as vital that those serving take good care of themselves. Ministry is demanding. It requires hard work…sometimes much more.

25 Ways to Change Your Routine

God needs us to be refreshed, restored, refueled, and ready to minister for him. How are you today? Are you taking good care of yourself? Do you ever change your daily routine?

If not, it’s time to start. Don’t be a martyr. You can’t serve yourself, your family, the church, or kids by working yourself into the ground. Make a point to slow down, refresh, and renew. Change your routine from time to time. Here are 25 ways to refill your cup:

1. Visit a nearby park.

During your day, take a walk in the park or even just around your church building. Enjoy your surroundings. Find a bench or a warm rock and soak up the sunshine.

2. Seek people who make you laugh.

Connect with them. Laughter is great for the soul. It’s rejuvenating.

3. Go on an adventure.

Take a risk. I went dog sledding this year. Wow—exhilarating and refreshing! Maybe for you, it’s kayaking, hiking, sailing, or climbing.

4. Spend time with a spiritual mentor.

Take time receiving, rather than always giving. This alone can be hard work, but in the end, you’ll be renewed.

5. Go on a picnic.

Pack a basket, slip into nature, and enjoy yourself. Take in everything—or just eat lunch.

6. Play.

You might not have time for 18 holes of golf. But you might be able to play miniature golf or a game of croquet.

7. Schedule a creative, fun lunch or coffee break.

Invite rejuvenating conversation. Relax. Don’t rush; take extra time.

8. Get a sketchpad and pencil.

Sit outside and choose something to sketch. Draw. Don’t worry about the outcome; just enjoy the experience.

9. Go for a swim.

Be buoyant. Let the water support you. Enjoy the shallow and the deep.

10. Go for a brisk walk.

It doesn’t matter how long or short, or whether it’s raining or shining. Just go, and go briskly!

11. Is there a basketball hoop nearby?

Go shoot some baskets and do a few layups. Can you still make a free throw? How about a three-pointer?

12. Launch balloons or beach balls in your work area.

Play a friendly game of Keep It Up.

13. Get comfortable and close your eyes.

Clear your mind and think about a fun experience you’ve had in life; those you love; a beautiful island in the ocean; something you’re looking forward to; taking a walk with Jesus.

14. Plant something.

Get your hands dirty—really dirty!

15. Get a massage.

It’s good for you!