In Episode 4 of the NextGen Matters podcast, Why Does My Struggle Matter, Rich Brown speaks directly to ministry leaders about the reality of struggle and why it carries eternal significance. Whether it’s late nights after youth group, personal hardships like grief or financial strain, or the quiet ache of burnout and imposter syndrome, struggle is part of both life and ministry. Rich shares from his own early days as a young youth minister, reminding listeners that even in seasons of pressure, God’s faithfulness is present. Grounded in Scripture, he highlights how struggles come from external attacks, internal doubts, burnout, failed efforts, and the brokenness of the world—but they are never wasted. Struggle can refine us, deepen our dependence on God, and shape us into Christlike leaders who model resilience and authenticity for the next generation. Your struggle matters because it is formative—building character and humility—and transformative, leaving a legacy of faith for those you shepherd. In God’s hands, even the hardest battles become seeds of hope.

Resources Mentioned

• The Bible (Scripture references: 2 Corinthians 1, 1 Timothy 4, 2 Timothy 1–2, Matthew 16, Luke 8, James 1, Romans 5, Hebrews 12)

Timestamps
• 00:01–01:30 — Introduction: The reality of struggle in ministry and life
• 01:30–04:55 — Everyday ministry exhaustion and internal personal struggles
• 04:55–06:13 — The human condition of struggle and biblical grounding
• 06:13–09:04 — Rich’s early ministry story: Expectations, pressure, and first challenges
• 09:04–12:52 — Ministry hardships across multiple churches
• 12:52–14:58 — Why our struggles matter and how God works through them
• 14:58–22:44 — Five biblical sources of struggle
• 22:44–32:44 — Four ways to find success during struggle: Recognize, see reality, be refined, receive reward
• 32:44–37:32 — Biblical, ministry, and personal perspectives on suffering and growth
• 37:32–38:28 — Call to action and closing encouragement