(5–8 minutes, easy set-up)
Learners will discuss how they can share their testimonies with others.
Provide a dry erase board and marker.
Write the word alcoholic on the dry erase board. Lead learners to list some characteristics of alcoholics on the board. Then, write the word workaholic on the board and lead learners to list characteristics of workaholics as well. Finally, write the word church-aholic on the board and lead learners to list characteristics of church-alohics. Ask: What similar characteristics are listed under each? Stress that devotion to God doesn’t equal the amount of time you spend in the church building doing church-related tasks. Emphasize the need to also be the Church in the community and world.
Point out that ministry is a healthy way to express one’s commitment to Christ, a way to use spiritual gifts for the benefit of others, and a way to find new purpose in living. Say: In John 5:36, Jesus pointed to the work the Father had given Him as a testimony that God had sent Him. Emphasize that we can become addicted to ministry and addicted to being needed, either of which can result in burnout, frustration, fatigue, and even depression. Ask: How do these things affect our testimony? (Possible answers: We cannot share joy and peace with others if we are burned out.)
Invite learners to discuss with two or three others: When you have experienced fatigue, frustration, or burnout while ministering to others, what brought you rest, relief, or renewal? How can you use these experiences to minister to other believers who are currently tired, frustrated, or burned out? Conclude by praying that learners will rely on God’s call to service and Jesus’ presence in their lives as the One who gives rest and renewal even as they serve Him. Pray that they will also be able to help other believers find rest and renewal in Jesus even as they complete the tasks God calls them to do.