How do you keep your heart soft when students you poured into walk away from the faith?

In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian have a raw, pastoral conversation about the deep grief many student pastors carry, especially when students who once seemed “all in” lose their way. They talk through the emotional weight of those moments, how to grieve well, and how to keep showing up with hope instead of bitterness.

This isn’t about blaming ourselves or others. It’s about guarding our hearts with the truth of God’s Word and staying faithful to the call, even when the fruit is hard to see.

Inside the Episode

Why it hurts so deeply when students walk away

Paul’s example of grieving without giving up

Why emotional maturity matters in ministry

You are not the hero—God brings the growth

Questions to ask when the grief feels heavy

How to walk in hope, not cynicism

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