Hurting people are not a disruption to ministry. They are the ministry.

In this episode of Ministry Mix, Phil Gifford and Richard Pope walk through eight practical and pastoral reminders for caring well for people who are suffering. Whether the hurt comes from grief, sin, trauma, broken relationships, or life in a fallen world, ministry leaders must learn how to offer real care that reflects the heart of Jesus.

This conversation moves beyond clichés and quick fixes and helps leaders slow down, listen well, and shepherd people with wisdom, truth, and compassion.

If you lead people in any capacity, this episode will help you care for hurting people without burning out, enabling sin, or minimizing pain.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why hurting people are unavoidable if you’re doing ministry faithfully
• How to affirm God’s love when people are tempted to doubt it
• Why presence often matters more than perfect words
• How to ask better questions and listen more effectively
• When and how to bring Scripture into moments of pain
• Why careless Bible verses can do more harm than good
• How to speak hard truths with grace and clarity
• Why consistency and community are essential for long-term care

Key Quote:

“Shepherding the flock means more than teaching truth. It means applying truth to tears, doubts, and wounds.”

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