(by Lorie Codispoti)
It’s that time of year again. The time when we’re bombarded with solicitations from all the legitimately worthy organizations, people, and causes we care about.
Did you know that humans make about 35,000 decisions a day? That breaks down to 2,000 decisions per hour (factoring in the average of seven hours for sleep). Much of that is your brain making a functional decision, like breathing or blinking your eyes. We were created with the ability to perform many unconscious, autonomous actions, but the ones I want to talk about are the conscious decisions we make - specifically those related to the abundance of pleas for year-end giving.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by all the needs?
How do we decide which causes to support when there are more of them than dollars to go around? Even if you plan ahead and allocate funds in advance you can experience generosity burnout during the holiday season.
It’s easy to become overwhelmed by all the appeals. There’s even a term that describes this type of solicitation anxiety.
It’s called “compassion fatigue.”
Compassion fatigue is a common phenomenon among those in the care-giving industry. However, that’s not the only place it can show up. If we’re not cognizant of the fact that a burden for helping others - whether that comes in the form of giving donations or physically serving in some capacity - can produce a negative result, then we become susceptible.
God’s word tells us NOT to “grow weary while doing good.” (Gal.6:9, 2Thess.3:13)
Why?
In part, it’s because when our hearts become overwhelmed by needs that far outweigh the assistance we can offer, it feels like our drop in that very large bucket will have little to no impact. Another reason we need to guard against “growing weary” is that weariness has the ability to harden us. We can become desensitized to the struggles of those around us when compassion fatigue sets in.
So what’s the solution?
How do we guard against the weariness of generosity burnout, donor fatigue, selflessness exhaustion, solicitation anxiety, compassion fatigue, etc. (choose your label)?
Well, for starters, I see a few helpful tips contained within the two chapters I referenced above...
1. Understand that weariness is a progressive condition that takes place while we are “doing good.”
We “grow” weary. The onset is subtle and gradual. Learn to recognize the signs that lead you in this direction, and when you see them course correct yourself.
2. Know the primary purpose for your giving.
The first verse of 2Thess.3 gives us critical information: “…that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified…” It’s more than simply meeting a need. The purpose of our giving is to advance the kingdom by spreading God’s word and glorifying Him.
3. Be discerning.
In verses 6-15, Paul warns the believers to avoid disorderly busybodies who refuse to work. Verify a legitimate need by asking questions. This applies to individuals and organizations. Someone with a real need will not avoid inquiry.
4. Be willing to bear the burden.
Galatians 6:1-2 admonishes us to give of ourselves in order to see others restored in their walk with Christ. This can be difficult, as some burdens have a longer lifespan than others. But, verse 10 says that “as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those of the household of faith.”
5. Remind yourself that giving always gives back.
In verse nine Paul is careful to point out the principal of sowing and reaping. He says that if we don’t lose heart, we will reap the benefits of our giving. But, here’s the key: “…in due season…” Be patient if you don’t see positive results right away. Trust God’s perfect timing for the harvest. It’s always more abundant than we can imagine.
The next time you feel the pangs of choice paralysis coming on, remind yourself that every one of the 35,000 decisions you will make today is made one at a time. You can decide right now that one of those choices will be to slow down and apply the helpful advice God gives us in His word.
When it comes to deciding which organization, or which person, you are to share your resources with, start by asking God to order your steps and direct your funds. That’s the best way I know to avoid the weary trap of compassion fatigue.
“Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way.” (2Thess.3:16)
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