When leadership takes its toll...

 It is early on Monday morning and I am exhausted! As I look at the day ahead and the week’s schedule…I just keep asking myself, “How do we keep all these plates spinning?” or “How do I keep juggling all the balls in the air?” I know I sound like circus performer, but honestly there are days when I feel like a circus performer!

You may feel this way as well. Girls Ministry and life in general, can be busy and exhausting. There is no summer break. There is no week off. (You may have a week off but I guarantee you will get at least one text or phone call from one a girl or leader in the Girls Ministry that just couldn’t wait!)

All this “plate spinning” and juggling of responsibilities and relationships in life causes me to reflect and evaluate my schedule and commitments. I’ve been re-reading a favorite book, Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership by Ruth Haley Barton over the last several weeks. Because, in addition to my Bible, this is one of the books that I’ve highlighted and marked up for times such as this---those times when life and ministry are overwhelming and there just doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to accomplish it all. I needed to read this book again during this season of life because being in leadership has taken a toll on me.

More than anything during these tough days, I need the assurance of God’s goodness, His graciousness, and His mercy. Like Moses in Exodus 33:12-16, I find myself wanting God more than any promised land. And to quote Ruth Haley Barton, “There is no promised land we could ever envision that matters nearly as much as the presence of God in our life right here and right now.” I don’t know about you, but I need God in the here and now!

However, as I read God’s words to Moses in Exodus 33:14 my hope is renewed. “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Some plates may drop to the ground…and I think a ball just bounced across the floor and under a chair…but I willingly and gladly drop it all for a glimpse of God’s glory and His goodness today.

What about you? Are you needing the assurance of His presence today? Are you needing to rest in His presence for a little while this morning?