Faith and Mental Health: Why Even the Strong Need Rest

Over the years, I have learned to appreciate the necessity of rest and recovery when it comes to mental health. Life has a way of pulling us in many directions—our careers, families, ministries, and responsibilities. We pour out so much, but how often do we stop to refill?

Reflecting on my journey, especially in the context of pastoral burnout, I’ve come to understand that mental health is health. It’s not a luxury. It’s not something only a select few need to consider. It’s something we all must prioritize, whether we are pastors, parents, business professionals, or students.

Reset and Restore: Why Mental Recovery is Necessary

There’s a passage in Mark 6:31 where Jesus tells His disciples:
“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

Jesus knew the importance of rest. He recognized that even those doing good—serving, ministering, and helping others—needed time to step away and reset. If Jesus, the Son of God, prioritized rest, why do we sometimes feel guilty about doing the same?

Mental exhaustion doesn’t always look like dramatic burnout. Sometimes, it’s the slow drain of daily life—stress, worry, overcommitment, or carrying burdens that we were never meant to bear alone. Over time, it wears us down, affecting not just our minds but our physical health, relationships, and spiritual connection.

Balancing Passion and Self-Care

I love God.
I love my family.
I love others.

But loving what you do for others doesn’t mean you don’t need rest. In fact, it means you must be even more intentional about recovery. Passion can deceive us into thinking we are fine, even when our minds and bodies are pleading for a break.

We were not created to run on empty. Just as a car needs fuel and maintenance, we, too, need time to pause, breathe, and recover. Ignoring this reality leads to frustration, exhaustion, and eventually, a breakdown.

How to Prioritize Mental Health in Daily Life

1. Create Space for Stillness – Silence is not empty; it’s full of answers. Take time to unplug from distractions and be still before God.
2. Set Boundaries – Saying “no” doesn’t mean you don’t care. It means you recognize your limits and choose what’s best for your well-being.
3. Invest in Rest – Sleep, exercise, and time away from work are not signs of weakness; they are necessary parts of maintaining strength.
4. Find Your Support System – Don’t carry everything alone. Find a trusted friend, mentor, or counselor who can help you navigate stress and emotions.
5. Pray and Release – You are not meant to carry every burden alone. “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

A Renewed Mind, A Strengthened Spirit

Resting is not quitting.
Resting is not weakness.
Resting is wisdom.

God designed us with body, mind, and spirit—and all three must be cared for. If we want to serve well, love well, and live well, we must first be well. Prioritizing mental health is not selfish; it’s stewardship.

So today, I encourage you: Take the time to reset and restore. Your mind matters. Your well-being matters. And most importantly, you matter.

Pastor Harold

Pastor Harold