I pray, attend church, read my bible. I even volunteer on a regular basis! I’m supposed to have it all together! If you struggle with these thoughts, you are not alone!
There are many Christians who struggle with ongoing symptoms of depression, anxiety, chronic stress, and more. Maybe there is something from your past you are struggling to overcome, maybe you are in an abusive relationship, maybe you are dealing with loss. Whatever your circumstances, it may be too much to carry on your own despite being a Christian. You may be considering seeing a therapist, but the idea of seeing such a professional makes you feel like you do not trust God enough or that you do not have enough faith. Let me encourage you and say, you are not a “lesser Christian” for seeking therapy.
In Ecclesiastes 4:9 it says, “Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil.” According to Webster’s Dictionary, the word “toil” means “long strenuous fatiguing labor” – which is what personal and spiritual healing/growth can feel like. Therapy is a collaborative effort where you and the therapist work together to achieve personal healing and develop healthier ways to cope with inner conflicts such as depression, anxiety, stress, unforgiveness, and anger.
In Romans 12:8 you can read about the gift of exhortation. The Greek word is paraklesis, which means “to come alongside to help”. According to Gary R. Collins, Ph.D.’s book Christian Counseling, the word exhortation implies, “…admonishing, confronting, supporting, and encouraging people to face the future (Gary R. Collins, 2007).” These are key components of therapy.
A good therapist will not only walk alongside you as you work towards healing, but they will use evidence-based practices that have proven to be effective with whatever mental health issue(s) you are facing.
At Huffman Counseling Services you will meet with an experienced therapist that will provide professional and caring service. Call today!
– Olivia
Citation:
Gary R. Collins, P. (2007). Christian Counseling A Comprehensive Guide, third edition. Thomas Nelson.
Olivia,
This is so good. It is true, we can not have all the answers. We need someone we can trust to confide in, and receive guidance!
I am praying God blesses your practice!
Thank you, Heather! Yes, there is strength in seeking help. I look forward to see God move in this practice! Thanks again.
This is great! God gave us therapists to help us through situations. He knows that we find it confirming
to sit down with another believer and receive help the help we need. Therapists are a gift of love, understanding, and compassion from the hand of our living Lord Jesus.
Thank you for your comment, Fenje! There is something about sitting down and sharing our hearts and desired futures with someone who cares and will be constructive.