Giving Without Being Drained – How to serve others while protecting your energy.

Somewhere along the way, many of us have adopted the “yes” man/woman mentality. We become adults who feel the need to always say yes.
“Yes, I can stay and clean the church.”
“Yes, I can go eat with the church.”
“Yes, I can run women’s ministry, the website, and the usher board, too.”

Though this may sound like a funny exaggeration, it’s a true example of how we often find ourselves overwhelmed and drained by trying to do everything for everyone.

The truth is, just because we are asked to do something, or even have the talent to do it, does not mean we are meant to do it.

What I have found is that it’s important to pray over the situation first. Not every assignment is meant for us. If we are not spiritually or emotionally prepared to take on something, then we shouldn’t be doing it.

Psalm 127:1 (NIV):
“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”

Praying over the situation and being still allows us time to hear from God about whether we should spearhead, assist, or not be involved at all. And it’s fine—because we first took it to the Lord.

If we are overwhelmed or drained, we cannot fully invest in what we are being asked to do. This doesn’t only apply to our spiritual journeys; it applies to every area of our lives. We are asked to do many things, attend numerous events, and fulfill countless obligations.

Sometimes, we need to say, “Wait, let me slow down. Let me take time for myself.” Because we have to be whole and well in order to support the ones we love and the organizations we are committed to.

Learning to be okay with saying “no” is important. It’s how we protect our energy and still serve others effectively. When we say “yes” without guilt or resentment, we can serve with full capability, with a cheerful and loving heart.

2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV):
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Being a cheerful giver applies to more than just tithing. It applies to how we show up and serve. Imagine attending an event where someone was asked to tend the door. They said yes to the assignment, but they were tired, drained, and stressed out.

They show up to greet people at the door, but all their exhaustion and frustration spill over into their interactions. Instead of a warm, cheerful greeting, they offer a dry, weary “hi.” And that energy spreads.

But if they had taken the time to rest, pray, and approach the task with a cheerful heart, the entire atmosphere would have been different. This is why it’s important to know where you are, when you are okay to say yes, and when you need to say no.

Matthew 11:28 (NIV):
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

If you are unsure, take it to God. It makes all the difference in how you show up for yourself and others.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me a heart that desires to serve. Teach me to know when to say yes and when to say no. Help me to protect my energy so that I may give cheerfully and with love. Guide me to seek Your wisdom before committing to anything, and remind me to find rest in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

#SacredWisdom #DailyDevotional #GivingWithGrace #ProtectYourEnergy #2Corinthians97 #Matthew1128 #PrayerBeforeCommitment #FaithAndBalance #CheerfulGiver