Some people get nervous when people bring up the idea of counseling. Counseling, however, ought not have any negative stigma attached to it. Indeed, without wise counsel we will fail to be and do all that God wants for us. I understand that there is counseling as in the sense of getting advice and then there is counseling in the sense of “therapy.” I prefer not to use the term therapy but to speak of “remedial discipleship,” to borrow a phrase from Grace Fellowship International. Discipleship occurs all the time in the body of Christ, sometimes in the form of seeking the counsel of others. Sometimes, however, we dig ourselves into a really deep hole or get overwhelmed with difficulties and temptations to such an extent that we need regular, focused counseling sessions to get us back on our feet. Even this is not dishonorable or weird. It is noble, for it shows that a person is willing to turn to God’s Word to help them to walk in victory.
We can sum up the argument behind the assertion that counseling is Biblical and healthy by the following three truths from Scripture:
Truth #1: In life, we need wise counsel, or we will fail to be and do what God wants.
“Without consultation, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22)
Truth #2: With an abundance of wise counsel, we can experience spiritual victory, thereby bearing abundant fruit for the kingdom.
“Where there is no guidance the people fall, but in abundance of counselors there is victory.” (Proverbs 11:14)
Truth #3: It is good and often necessary to get Biblical counsel from a wise believer, but the best and most important counsel is always the Word of God.
“Your testimonies also are my delight; they are my counselors.” (Psalm 119:24)
Conclusion: When we need help in times of trouble, confusion, and difficulty, we need to be able to use the Word of God as our counselor. Sometimes we will need others to walk us through the Word together, but we must always walk through the Word. Counseling is simply that, a walk through the Word, sometimes with additional guidance and focus.
The Good News