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Church Daily1 min read

Spiritual Drift Happens in Summer—Here's How to Combat It

Burnout disguises itself as spiritual sleepiness. Learn why summer is when exhausted leaders need intentional rhythms, not just rest.

CS
ChurchStacks
July 10, 2026
The News
A Christianity Today article this week chronicled a young ministry leader's experience of "spiritual sleepiness" after months of intense work—serving as a college newspaper editor, leading student organizations, working part-time jobs, and serving in residence life. Even amid God's sustenance, exhaustion created a kind of spiritual fog that mindfulness alone couldn't fix.
Why It Matters
Summer is when your burnout catches up with you. You've powered through the school year on fumes, and July feels like breathing room—except it's often when you realize you've drifted spiritually. Mindfulness apps and quiet mornings help, but they're not enough if you don't address the underlying depletion. Your congregation needs leaders who are spiritually present, not just physically showing up.
The Takeaway
Before August, schedule a full day away from church responsibilities to assess your spiritual health and reset your rhythms for fall—don't wait until September scrambling to refill your tank.

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