The Abiding Leader Podcast – Season 2, Ep 1: "Six Things I’ve Learnt in Ministry So Far" (Part 2)

After more than twenty years in ministry, I’ve learnt that leadership is not only about what we do, but who we become while we are doing it. In Part 1, I share three lessons about criticism, exhaustion and remembering that the ministry belongs to Jesus.

People leaving your church can be painful, but they can also be one of your greatest opportunities for growth as a leader. In this episode, we explore four types of people who leave a church and how pastors should respond to each. We'll discuss why some departures are healthy, why others require prayer, and why "good people" leaving may reveal important leadership blind spots.

In this episode, we explore the difference between the spiritual gift of pastoring and the gift of leadership — and why confusing the two may be creating unhealthy expectations in the church. What if shepherding people and leading people are distinct gifts meant to work together rather than exist equally in one person? Join us for an honest conversation about church leadership, shared ministry, burnout, and building healthier church cultures that honour both pastors and leaders.

In this short episode, we explore the importance of learning to switch off from ministry and rest in God. Through a simple but powerful practice—“taking off your priestly garments”—we’re reminded that faithful leadership includes knowing when to step back, be present at home, and trust the Chief Shepherd to keep working.

Ministry was never meant to be your identity, only your overflow. In this episode, we explore how ministry idolatry leads to burnout, the signs to watch for, and how returning to daily moments with God can restore joy, clarity, and rest in your leadership.