Let me take you back for a moment.

I never planned to be in ministry—I just kept saying “yes” when help was needed. One small commitment turned into another, and before I knew it, I was knee-deep in Wednesday night programs, Vacation Bible School, curriculum planning, and classroom makeovers—all while raising two young boys, managing a home, and supporting a husband who was often on the road for work.

It wasn’t something I pursued. It simply grew—and I grew with it.

Ministry was deeply fulfilling, and I genuinely felt called to that season. But as the responsibilities piled up, so did the pressure. I quickly learned I couldn’t do it all alone. I needed people I could count on—people I could trust to help carry the load.

In those early years as a volunteer, I still had space to breathe. We made time for camping trips and visits with family. But when the church brought me on part-time, the expectations shifted. I was now “staff.” And while the title changed, my ability to say “no” didn’t grow with it.

After 12 years, our family moved to a larger church. Following a brief season of healing and rest, we jumped back into ministry—this time as first-grade Sunday School teachers. The spark was reignited, and before long, I was leading again. I ended up serving another 12 years—six part-time, six full-time.

It was during that second chapter, in the thick of parenting teenagers and preparing for college transitions, that I hit a wall. Somewhere along the way, I had fallen into the trap of thinking rest was optional—that leaving vacation days untouched was a mark of commitment.

It wasn’t. And I learned that the hard way.

Here’s what I wish I’d known sooner—and what I hope will encourage you now.

1. Build a Team You Can Trust

You can’t—and shouldn’t—do ministry alone. Building a strong team takes time, intentional effort, and a willingness to let go of control.

At first, it was hard for me to watch others do things differently than I would. But something beautiful happened when I stepped back: new ideas surfaced, creativity flourished, and the team grew in confidence. Some of the best ministry moments happened precisely because I wasn’t in the room.

Trusting your team not only empowers them—it frees you to rest.

2. Learn the Rhythm of Your Ministry

Every ministry has natural highs and lows. Some seasons are intense, others more manageable. The key is knowing when to lean in—and when to step back.

For too long, I treated the calendar like a to-do list instead of a rhythm to live by. Once I learned to recognize the slower seasons, I started using that time to refuel. That margin became essential for navigating the busier months ahead.

3. Prioritize and Protect Your Time Away

Whether it’s a vacation, a spiritual retreat, or just a quiet day to yourself—plan it ahead. And when you do, treat it like it matters. Because it does.

Recently, I took a week in Florida with no agenda. I sat by the pool, read a few books, and did almost nothing else. The most radical thing? I left my computer at home.

And guess what? The world didn’t fall apart. My team was more than capable. When I returned, I felt lighter, clearer, and more focused. That trip reminded me of something I had forgotten: rest isn’t a reward for finishing the work—it’s what helps you do the work well.

Rest Isn’t Optional—It’s Biblical

In ministry, it’s easy to believe our value is tied to how available we are. But Jesus never asked us to burn out for the sake of the Gospel.

In Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV), He says:

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest... you will find rest for your souls."

We were never created to run on empty. I used to think stepping back meant letting someone down. What I’ve come to understand is that rest is an act of trust—trust that God can sustain the ministry even when I’m not the one holding it all together.

So if no one has given you permission lately, let me be the one: It’s okay to rest. Take the trip. Block off the day. Breathe.

Whether you're a volunteer juggling Sunday mornings or a full-time leader carrying unseen burdens—rest is for you, too.

And when you return? You won’t just feel better. You’ll be better—because you took the time to receive before giving again.

Amy Bates has been dedicated to KidMin for over 30 years. She has been happily married to Mike for 32 years, and they have two grown sons who are pursuing their passions and careers in different states. As empty-nesters, they found themselves reevaluating their lives about 18 months ago. After much prayer and consultation, they decided it was time to say goodbye to their life in Pennsylvania and hello to Grace Heartland Church in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. It has been quite a journey, and they are adjusting and loving their new life. One thing that amazes Amy is how God places the right people at the right time in her life!