Burnout and Sabbath / Alexis Abernethy

Episode 225

Clinical psychologist Alexis Abernethy explores burnout, Sabbath rest, and resilience—reframing rest as spiritual practice for individuals and communities.

“For me, it’s knowing that the Lord has made me as much to work as much to be and to be still and know that he is God.”

On this episode, clinical psychologist Alexis Abernethy (Fuller Seminary) joins Macie Bridge to discuss burnout, Sabbath, worship, mental health, and resilience in the life of the church. Defining burnout through its dimensions of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced sense of accomplishment, Abernethy reflects on how church life can intensify these dynamics even as it seeks to heal them. Drawing from scripture, theology, psychology, and her own experience in the Black church and academic worlds, she reorients us to Sabbath as more than self-care: a sacred practice of being still before God. Sabbath, she argues, is not a quick fix but a preventive rhythm that sustains resilience in leaders and congregations alike. Along the way, she points to the necessity of modeling rest, the impact of daily and weekly spiritual rhythms, and the communal posture that makes Sabbath transformative.

Episode Highlights

“For me, it’s knowing that the Lord has made me as much to work as much to be and to be still and know that he is God.”
“Often people have overextended themselves in face of crises, other circumstances over a period of time, and it’s just not really sustainable, frankly, for anyone.”
“We act as if working hard and excessively is dutiful and really what the Lord wants—but that’s not what He wants.”
“When you are still with the Lord, you look different when you’re active.”
“Sabbath rest allows you to literally catch your own breath, but also then be able to see what the congregation needs.”

Helpful Links and Resources

About Alexis Abernethy

Alexis Abernethy is a clinical psychologist and professor in the School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy at Fuller Seminary. Her research explores the intersection of spirituality and health, with particular focus on Christian spirituality, church leadership, and group therapy models.

Topics and Themes

Burnout in Church Leadership and Congregational Life
Defining Burnout: Emotional Exhaustion, Depersonalization, and Reduced Accomplishment
Spiritual Misconceptions of Work and Duty
Sabbath as Sacred Rest, Not Just Self-Care
Silence, Stillness, and the Presence of God
Scriptural Foundations for Sabbath: Psalm 23, Psalm 46, John 15
The Role of Pastors in Modeling Rest
Pandemic Lessons for Church Rhythms and Participation
Emily Dickinson and Creative Visions of Sabbath
Resilience Through Sabbath: Lessons from New Orleans Pastors
Practical Practices for Sabbath in Everyday Life

Show Notes