Wait…Help! My Computer and Phone Need Recharging—and So Do I: Simple Steps to Burnout Recovery

🌿 Before the Moment Passes: A Reflection on Rest, Love, and the Gift of Now

Simple Steps to Burnout Recovery

(Part 3 of the “Learning to Pause Before You Power Down” Series)

— Millicent V. Brown

Sometimes even our devices tell us what our souls already know: it’s time to recharge.

Even Jesus, the Son of God, heeded the voice of His Father—and listened to His own body, mind, and spirit—when He said: “You’re tired… go away… rest.”(Mark 6:31)

We often believe we’re being productive by multitasking. But instead, we become scattered, weary, and spiritually drained.

And when we’re exhausted by all the “doing,” something else shuts down, too: Real, godly love. Instead of the love God asks us to show, we start clanging with:

• ❌ Complaints → ✅ Compliments

• ❌ Harsh words → ✅ Encouragement

• ❌ Resentment → ✅ Praise

• ❌ Silent sighs of weariness → ✅ Refreshment, peace, joy… and love.

🕊️ What I’ve Learned Lately...

In the last few months, I’ve made more hospital and nursing home visits, attended more funerals, and written more condolences than I ever imagined.

I went to encourage others…But I found myself being encouraged by the strength, smiles, and even joy of those walking through some of life’s most turbulent seasons.

I heard powerful testimonies. I saw faith that didn’t waver. And I witnessed how love truly endures.

And it made me ask a question that’s been burning in my spirit ever since: Why do we wait until someone is gone to say what we needed to say? Why not now?

🌤️ Choose the Moment

Why not stop long enough to feel the breeze? Soak in the sun? Smile back at the cashier?Laugh—really laugh—with a loved one?T ake that walk. Sit quietly. Pause the hustle… and live.

We don’t just have to survive life.We can enjoy it.We can live abundantly.

🐾 Even My Fur Baby Reminded Me...

My sweet dog just turned another year older.And for the first time… I noticed he’s getting older too.

Every walk.

Every nuzzle.

Every playful moment.

Is a gift.

So let this be your gentle encouragement today:

Take the time to ENJOY the pause. Realize: each moment is a blessing. This day—this breath—choose what matters. Let God be your Guide. And breathe while you can…One breath at a time.

📖 Scripture Focus

Mark 6:31 (NIV)Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, He said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

Isaiah 30:15 (AMP)For the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel has said: “In returning [to Me] and rest you shall be saved, In quietness and confident trust is your strength.”

🙏 Prayer

A Prayer for Rest and Renewal Heavenly Father,Thank You for the gift of this moment. In the midst of all the rushing, remind me to return to You. Teach me how to rest—not just in body, but in spirit. Quiet my anxious thoughts, still my busy hands, and refresh my weary soul. Help me to recognize the beauty in today and the blessings I’ve often overlooked. Let Your peace be my pace, and Your love be my guide. I choose to pause and be present, knowing that every breath is a gift from You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

✅ Reflection Questions

1. What does “rest” look like for you in this current season of life?

2. Who or what helps you remember to pause and breathe?

3. What moments have you recently overlooked that now feel like blessings in disguise?

4. What is one small way you can show love to yourself today?

5. What do you want to say to someone before the moment passes?

✅ Affirmation

Today, this week, I pause with purpose. I embrace the moment, breathe deeply, and remember that rest is not weakness—it’s worship. I am loved, I am worthy, and I am here on purpose.