268. The #1 Relationship Every Ministry Leader Needs to Survive (Burnout Series 3)

In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh and Bill reveal a critical, often-overlooked strategy for preventing burnout—relationships. Too many leaders face exhaustion and discouragement alone, believing their struggles are unique. The truth? Ministry is not meant to be done in isolation.

Josh and Bill unpack why ministry friendships must be outside your church, outside your town, and even outside your denomination—and how to find them before burnout takes hold.

Key Topics Covered
✅ Why ministry leaders must have friendships outside their church.
✅ The dangers of oversharing struggles with people inside your congregation.
✅ How to strategically build relationships that protect your mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
✅ Why relying solely on your spouse for ministry processing can cause unintended strain.
✅ The balance between inside-circle and outside-circle relationships for long-term ministry health.

Key Quote
"You need somebody you can be absolutely, fundamentally, and ultra vulnerable with. If you don’t have that, you are bound for burnout."

Scripture References
📖 Proverbs 27:17 – “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
📖 Exodus 18:17-18 – “What you are doing is not good… You will only wear yourself out.”

Takeaway
Ministry was never meant to be a solo journey. If you’re feeling the weight of burnout creeping in, it’s time to build your circle of support—before it’s too late.

Call to Action
We challenge you: Find one new ministry friend outside your church this week. Your future self will thank you.

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