What does true, biblical empathy look like, and why is it essential for spiritual and emotional health in ministry?
In this episode of “FrontStage BackStage,” host Jason Daye sits down with Bill and Kristi Gaultiere, founders of Soul Shepherding and authors of “Deeply Loved: Receiving and Reflecting God’s Great Empathy for You.” Together, they explore how empathy reflects the heart of God and helps pastors and ministry leaders experience deeper trust, healthier relationships, and renewed connection with Christ.
Bill and Kristi define empathy as the grace-filled ability to understand another’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that helps people know they are deeply loved by God. Bill and Kristi share how empathy, when joined with truth and responsibility, leads to real growth rather than distortion or co-dependence. The conversation also uncovers how receiving empathy from others allows ministry leaders to trust God more fully, release self-criticism, and care for their own souls.
They discuss:
- What the Bible reveals about empathy as an expression of God’s love
- How empathy builds trust and deepens faith
- The difference between self-empathy and empathy toward others
- Why empathy must be balanced with truth and responsibility
- How Jesus modeled perfect empathy through grace and discernment
- Practical ways to cultivate empathy and emotional intelligence in ministry
- Encouragement for weary pastors to rest in God’s deep love
This conversation invites ministry leaders to rediscover empathy as a reflection of God’s heart—one that brings healing, connection, and renewal to those who serve and those they lead.
FrontStage BackStage Podcast With Bill and Kristi Gaultiere
View the entire podcast here.
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