Why Biblical Counseling
STS Counseling Series Part II
“Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path” Psalm 119:105
(Additional scripture to think on…. Psalm 1; Proverbs 6:23; Hebrews 4:12)
Jamie, a freshman at the local university asked me in a counseling session “what does the Bible say about homosexuality and how do you feel about homosexuals?” Most if not all of us can relate to moments when questions were asked that answers could be found offensive. With so many culturally divisive issues today, at times it is easier to shy away. Perhaps playing “chubby bunny” is good since no one will be able to understand what we are talking about. (BTW - I highly recommend never playing that game)
Here is the truth: to minister God’s Word today in a culture that has become increasingly hostile towards absolute truth does not increase our popularity in the culture, but it does provide an oasis of truth in an otherwise muttering of opinions.
With so many people today seeking counseling and so many counseling services available, which one is best suited for partnering with your church, youth ministry and sphere of influence? To be fair, the desired outcome of all counseling is the same. “Counseling outcomes are the benefits derived for clients because of their experience or treatment in therapy.” In other words, all counseling seeks in some way to:
1. Facilitate behavior change
2. Improve one’s ability to establish and maintain (a) relationship(s)
3. Enhance one’s ability to effectively cope
4. Promote a healthy decision-making process
5. Set a plan for development
The Uniqueness of Biblical Counseling is its emphasis to place final authority in absolute truth recognizing all truth comes from God, our Creator, and is revealed in Holy Scripture.
Biblical Counseling uses these guiding truths:
Everyone holds great and eternal value because they are created in the image of God and therein bear His image.
Everyone since the first man, Adam, has inherited a sin nature and therefore chooses to break communion with God and other people because of their choices.
The Bible is the foundational authority by which all counsel must be derived and is sufficient for anyone experiencing relational, emotional, and behavioral issues.
Redemption, restoration, healing, hope and transformation are all possible because of the finished work Jesus accomplished on the cross.
Grace, not guilt is the motivation or change agent necessary for transformation.
Psychological trauma and physiological needs may impair clients from understanding and applying biblical truth, therefore these needs must be addressed prior to or as a part of the therapy.
STS Counseling Method is Biblical Problem-Solving:
1. Genuine Satisfaction - Psalm 1- A Reality That is Possible
2. Truth and Love - John 8.32, 1 Cor.16.14 - The Pillars That are Necessary
3. Grace - Eph.1:7 - The Sufficiency of Our Savior
4. Put On/Put Off - Gal.5; Eph.4; Col.3 - The Responsibility of the Client
The Strength to Stand Counseling Network provides in-person services in Birmingham, AL, and around the US via tele-health. Let us know if there is any way we can support you, your local church, and your student ministry.
You can find more about STS Counseling HERE. Each are experienced counselors helping fight for this next generation.