| Life is tragic. If you’re not suffering right now, it’s likely you’re just coming out of a season of pain—or heading into one soon. Happy Tuesday, right? One of a pastor’s main jobs is to prepare people to suffer with courage and faith. But how? That’s what Ligon Duncan and I discuss in the latest episode of The Everyday Pastor, a podcast on the nuts and bolts of ministry. We tackle questions like these: - How do we foster a culture in our churches where people aren’t shocked and undone by pain?
- Which doctrines does every Christian need to grasp—so they’re ready when trials come?
- How do we guard against pessimistic fear?
- Suffering can often spark a crisis of faith. What are practical tips for coming alongside someone whose tragedy tempts them to doubt God?
- What are unique ways we can be the body of Christ when there’s suffering in our midst?
Though mainly geared toward pastors, this 40th episode is relevant to any Christian who wants to live faithfully in a broken world. Ligon and I love doing this show. We hope you’ll subscribe and recommend it to a pastor you know, so that we can continue helping pastors find fresh joy in the work of ministry. | 
