Caring for Others Starts with Caring for Yourself

Every day, church workers face crises—large or small, directly or indirectly—that can lead to exhaustion, frustration and even burnout if left unchecked. Whether it’s a natural disaster—like fires, floods, hurricanes, tornados or extreme cold—or a calamity in ministry or at home, these events take an emotional toll on God’s servant, often unnoticed.

But who cares for the caregivers? We ultimately know our God does. But church workers also must practice self-care—like putting on your own oxygen mask first—to continue the critical role of caring for others.

Self-care looks different for everyone. Knowing your limits and understanding your own needs is not selfish; it’s vital to one’s own physical, emotional and spiritual health. Caring for our own needs truly empowers our ability to care for others.

Five Practical Strategies for Self-Care in Crisis

1. Start with prayer. Prayer is always an appropriate place to begin. While God knows our hearts, we have the privilege of bringing our needs before Him. Spending time in prayer, alone and with others, can be an encouraging reprieve as we place our trust in God to work in the situation.
2. Don’t go at it alone. Jesus promises that we are never alone, and He often provides others to walk with us. Crisis is a journey—sometimes long, sometimes short, but always more difficult when faced in isolation. Our Savior remains in control, even when things seem out of control. Find trusted friends, colleagues or mentors who can offer support. Jesus sent His disciples out two by two, and Scriptures reminds us that “a cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). There is strength in numbers.
3. Set healthy boundaries. Know your limits. A critical part of self-care is creating margin in your life. Honor responsibilities beyond ministry like family, friendships and personal well-being. Don’t allow a crisis to consume you. Step back, breathe and allow yourself space to recharge.
4. Give yourself permission to rest. Your body knows when you’re exhausted. God created us to need rest, and studies show that lack of sleep affects us physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. And face it: when we’re tired, we’re not always pleasant to be around. If needed, take a few days to reset and refocus on how God can best use you in the situation.\
5. Feed your soul and your body. In times of crisis, busyness can distract us from good spiritual and physical habits, giving the devil opportunity. Stay rooted in God’s Word and sacraments—it strengthens and sustains us. And be mindful of nutrition. Stress often leads to eating on the go or turning to unhealthy “comfort” foods. Nourishing your body well can make a real difference in how you cope with challenges.

Self Care is Not Selfish

High stress can take a toll on both body and soul, but it doesn’t have to. Practicing intentional self-care allows you to serve more effectively, not just for yourself, but for your family, your ministry and those you are serving.