Maybe you’ve found yourself in the same place I have recently: tired, stretched thin, and wondering how you ended up juggling this many responsibilities with only two hands and one weary heart. You keep showing up, doing the work, saying “yes” to just one more thing because it matters – and it does. But somewhere in the shuffle, your soul starts whispering what your calendar won’t say out loud: You need to take a break.
I’ve always carried what some call “the blessing of the burden.” I say yes because I care. I show up because I believe in what I’m doing. And when you’re walking in the calling God has placed on your life, it’s hard to say no to any part of it.
But even in the middle of doing good work – kingdom work – you can still find yourself under attack. It can feel like spiritual warfare, like the moment you find your stride, the enemy starts hurling dodgeballs at your head. And sometimes, you’re the only one who can see them coming.
It’s in those moments – when you’re tired, overwhelmed, or just plain worn out – that God gently reminds me: you don’t have to carry this all alone.
It’s okay to pause. It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to step back for a moment to refocus and pray. That’s not quitting – that’s wisdom. That’s obedience.
We’re conditioned to believe that hustle equals holiness, that busyness somehow means we’re fulfilling our purpose. But I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that God doesn’t just call us to work, He calls us to rest, too. Jesus Himself withdrew often to pray and recharge. Why do we think we should do any less?
If you’re in a season where you feel like you’re running on fumes, I want you to know you’re not alone. And more importantly: you’re not failing. You’re human. You’re doing your best. And sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is pause long enough to hear God’s voice again in the quiet.
Keep the faith. Take a breath. Say a prayer. Step back if you need to. The work will still be there.
But your soul matters most. Don’t give up. Don’t lose heart. Just know when it’s time to rest, so you’re strong enough to rise again.
We’re in this together. And we’re going to make it. One prayer, one pause, and one faithful step at a time.
Ashley Carter is a wife, mother and grandmother living in Elmore County. She serves as the Vice President of Finance and Events at 1819 News. Ashley has written three books, one inspirational as well as two children’s books.
The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of 1819 News. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
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