What is Biblical Counseling

You probably have many things come to mind when you see the word “Counseling”, so let us explain what we mean by biblical counseling.

  • Biblical Counseling seeks to discern those intentions of the heart which lead to wrong thinking and actions.
  • Biblical Counseling uses God’s Word, by the Holy Spirit, to change desires, thinking, and behavior.
  • Biblical Counseling seeks to see changed hearts and lives for the glory of God.

Elements of Biblical Counseling

The Counselor will concentrate on four elements from Scripture:

  • Understanding the problem.  Our goal is not to simply “fix feelings” or change circumstances. In a spirit of gentleness your counselor will make biblical inquiry into the various levels of your problems and help you gain God’s perspective on your difficulties.
  • Your Hope. Even though you may be going through a difficult time, God has promised not to tempt you beyond your ability and to provide a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). He will use these trials for your benefit as you respond biblically (Romans 8:28-29).
  • Your Change.  You will learn how to put off the old way of living and put on the new (Ephesians 4:20-24). And by learning to change biblically you will begin to please the Lord and bear fruit in every good work while increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:9-12).
  • Your Practice. You need to prove yourself to be a doer of God’s Word and not merely a hearer, thus forgetting what kind of person you are and deluding yourself (Hebrews 13:20-22; James 1:22-25; 1 John 3:22).

The Counselor’s Training

The Counselor does not claim to be a certified psychologist; rather they are trained in the use of the Scripture and the principle of biblical counseling. As a Biblical Counselor we are committed to the authority of the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17).  We also understand that the Bible is capable of handling all things pertaining to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3-5).  Therefore we will not base our counsel on any other opinion, experience, or concept of behavior (Isaiah 55:8-11).

Local Church Involvement

If you are going to achieve a true victory over your problems it is vital that you become consistent in your Christian walk. God has given his local Church to assist in that process (Hebrews 3:13; 10:24-25). Therefore it is important that your counseling be accompanied by discipleship and fellowship from a local church. If you do not have a church home, you are welcome to join us in our church’s fellowship. If you are part of another church family, the assistance of your church’s leadership may be requested.

Counseling as Ministry

We view pastoral counseling as a ministry of the local church to hurting people, therefore:

  • There is no charge. We only seek to see God glorified in changed lives (1 Thessalonians 2: 7-8).
  • Requirements. Before your first session fill out the Informational Packet which can be found at the bottom of the page and deliver it to the church office. Bring with you a Bible and notebook (this begins the first time).
  • Expectations. That you come with a heart ready to work out the problem. We may be the escape which God provides to help you (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Confidentiality

A commitment to trustworthiness is an important quality of a counselor (based on 1 Corinthians 4:2). Thus, although your counselor may talk with others about a particular situation, you may be confident that the discussion will be restricted to whatever is necessary to help you overcome your problems (Proverbs 10:18-21).