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In all things in life, there is change. Such is the case when a sinner begins the process of change into a Christian. The following is a Biblical outline of steps that occur within the life changes of a Christian.
Presently, many modern societies are engulfing their citizens with medications through means of the media and profession. In the realm of mental health, there are more people taking medications for their concerns than ever before. Because of these trends, it is important for a Biblical counselor to be aware but also hold a position in addressing this matter.
Self-confrontation on the counselor’s part can be described as continual self-examination and restoration of one’s self in accordance to God’s standards before proceeding to serve others through counseling. Although a counselor is to be adequately educated and skilled for this role, such training does not take precedence or supersede a counselor’s humble dependence on God, His Word, and His Spirit in counseling others. This is important because a person who counsels should keep in mind that they are not higher than those they counsel (John 13:14-16) but they are to serve with an attitude of humility (Acts 20:19) and give glory and honor to God (1 Co. 10:31).
In a world where accountability and appropriate gender roles are diminishing, it is important to exercise certain conditions when counseling someone of the opposite sex. The following is my response to this matter.
The most basic role of church discipline in counseling is to keep a counselee saved in Christ (James 5: 19-20). It is about the preservation of souls for Christ (Ps. 121:7). Additionally, it plays the role of maintaining holiness within the Body of Christ (Eph. 1:4-5; 1 Pet. 1:15) and keeping its members set apart from the world that lies outside of Christ (Jn. 15:19; 17:16-17).
There are several roles that the church plays in the counseling process. The roles vary from ministering to the direct physical needs of a person to ministering to the inner depths of their souls. Some of the roles consist of its members admonishing others through warnings and corrections, comforting people who are faint-hearted, supporting people who lack strength, and being patient with everyone.
The role of the Holy Spirit in the counseling process is to bring about conviction. The conviction brings out sin, a need for God, and a need for living a God-pleasing life (Jn. 16:18). He allows proclamation of Jesus as Lord. No one can sincerely make this proclamation by any other means (1 Co. 12:3). The Holy Spirit also equips believers with the “fruit of the spirit” such as love, peace and kindness, which are profitable for living a Godly life (Gal. 5:22-23).
The basic problem of man lies with their heart. It is naturally deceitful and wicked (Jer. 17:9). However, the heart is also impacted by that which it is nourished. Hence, if I nourish my heart with things such as peace and love, such things will grow within my heart. Over time, they will produce a treasure in my heart that reflects its kind; it will be exhibited through my behavior and way of life (Matt 12:35; 15:18-19). Therefore, it is my responsibility to exercise discipline in nourishing my heart with things that are good and producing good treasure. Additionally, in exercising discipline, I will be guarding my heart from things which are evil as well as restricting issues of life from arising from within it (Prov. 4:23).
In comparison to many sacred writings, scripture is very unique. First, scripture is inspired by God. Hence, God impressed upon certain people to write down His thoughts and teachings so that they could be shared with other people (2 Pet. 1:20-21). Because scripture is inspired by God, it is good for teachings, correcting someone in love, and instructing someone how to live a righteous life within Christ (2 Tim. 3:16).
In the realm of mental well-being there are two major forms of counseling. One form focuses on the cognitive, behavioral, and physical aspects of mental health through the eyes of psychology. The other form, focuses on these areas as well. However, it adds the dimension of the soul through the eyes of religion and spirituality. The following selection presents a brief introduction in Biblical, Pastoral and Christian counseling.
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