As pastors, leaders, and ministers, we often find ourselves running low on energy, not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally as well. It’s inevitable when you’re constantly pouring into others, leading ministries, and carrying the weight of shepherding God’s people. But what happens when you’re the one who feels depleted? When your tank is running on empty, how do you refuel and keep moving?

Here are some key strategies to help you get moving when you’re running out of gas:

1. Recognize the Signs of Burnout

Before you can refuel, you need to recognize the warning signs that your “tank” is low. Maybe you’re feeling constantly overwhelmed, easily irritated, or you’ve lost the passion that once fueled your ministry. Pay attention to these cues. When Elijah was running on empty after his showdown with the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 19), he didn’t realize how drained he was until God told him to rest. Be honest with yourself—acknowledge that you’re not running at full capacity and that it’s time to make some adjustments.

2. Recharge Through Prayer and Rest

The spiritual fuel we need comes from intimacy with God. Jesus often withdrew to desolate places to pray (Luke 5:16). If Jesus needed moments to refuel, how much more do we? Take intentional time to rest in His presence. You may feel like you don’t have time to slow down, but without refueling spiritually, you won’t have the strength to keep running the race. Don’t confuse ministry for your personal walk with God—they are not the same thing.

3. Delegate and Share the Load

Moses learned the importance of delegation from his father-in-law, Jethro (Exodus 18). Trying to do everything yourself is a sure way to burn out. If you’re running out of gas, it’s time to assess what tasks you can delegate to others. Surround yourself with a team that can help carry the burden. Ministry is never meant to be a solo act; it’s a team effort. Share responsibilities, empower others to step up, and free yourself to focus on what only you can do.

4. Refill with Encouragement

We all need someone who pours into us when we feel empty. Paul encouraged the Thessalonians to “encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Don’t isolate yourself when you’re feeling drained. Find mentors, friends, or fellow pastors who can encourage you and speak life into you. A simple word of encouragement can go a long way in refueling your spirit and helping you press forward.

5. Remember Your Calling

When you’re running out of gas, it’s easy to forget why you started this journey in the first place. Revisit your calling. Reflect on the moment God called you to the ministry. There’s power in remembering what God spoke over your life, and sometimes, revisiting your purpose reignites that spark you’ve lost. God’s calling hasn’t changed even when you feel worn out. As Paul said, “The gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (Romans 11:29).

6. Take Care of Your Physical Health

It’s easy to overlook physical health when you’re focused on spiritual matters. However, your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and it needs care. Get enough sleep, eat nourishing foods, and incorporate exercise into your routine. Physical exhaustion can lead to spiritual and emotional burnout. You can’t be at your best if you’re running on empty physically, so be intentional about caring for your body.

7. Celebrate Small Wins

Ministry can be overwhelming when you’re only focused on the big picture. Instead of waiting for monumental achievements, learn to celebrate the small victories. Each soul touched, every message preached, every counseling session is a win. These moments remind you that God is working, even when it feels like progress is slow. Gratitude is a powerful way to refuel.

8. Reevaluate and Refocus

When you’re running out of gas, it’s time to reassess your priorities. Are you doing too much? Are there things that are draining your energy without bearing much fruit? Jesus told His disciples to shake the dust off their feet and move on when they encountered resistance (Matthew 10:14). Not every project or idea will flourish, and that’s okay. Let go of what’s draining you and refocus on what God has called you to do.

9. Allow the Holy Spirit to Empower You

We are not called to lead in our own strength. Zechariah 4:6 says, “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.” When you’re running low, lean into the Holy Spirit. He is your source of strength, guidance, and power. Let Him take over where you feel inadequate or insufficient. His power is perfected in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

10. Look Ahead with Hope

Running out of gas doesn’t mean you’ve reached the end of your journey. It’s just a sign that you need to refuel. God’s promises to you haven’t changed, and His plans are still unfolding. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). Keep your eyes on the hope ahead, knowing that God will give you the strength to continue.

In conclusion, when you feel like you’re running out of gas, know that you’re not alone, and it’s not the end. Take the time to refuel spiritually, emotionally, and physically. God is faithful to renew your strength as you wait on Him (Isaiah 40:31). Stay committed to your calling, lean on your community, and trust that God will equip you to keep moving forward.

About Pastor James Smith

Pastor James Smith, Valparaiso, Indiana – Founder of PreachIt.org, OpportunityHope.org, and PastoralHelps.com.

He equips pastors worldwide with sermons, leadership tools, and encouragement, while also caring for orphaned and at-risk children in West Bengal, India through OpportunityHope. Beyond the orphanage and school, OpportunityHope provides clean water wells, livestock, and other humanitarian helps to families and villages in need. Additional books, leadership training, and mentoring resources are available through PastoralHelps.com.