Walking in the Spirit in the Process of Change Christian growth is not self-improvement; it is Spirit-empowered transformation. The flesh can imitate religion, but only the Spirit produces genuine change. Pastor Chuck Smith emphasized this distinction constantly: “Having begun in the Spirit, ar...

Love — The Goal of All Counseling Love is the goal, the motive, and the measure of every ministry of soul care. Without love, truth becomes cold, and correction becomes harsh. With love, even the most difficult conversation can become redemptive. Pastor Chuck Smith taught that love is the great...

Balancing Grace and Truth in Counseling Jesus came “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). These two qualities must characterize all soul care. Grace without truth deceives, and truth without grace destroys. Together, they reflect the character of Christ and the heart of biblical counseling. Pas...

Faith That Works Through Love in Soul Care Faith receives what grace provides and expresses itself through love. The Christian life begins by faith, continues by faith, and bears fruit through faith. As Galatians 5:6 says, “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anyth...

Ephesians 4:25-32 I. Falsehood vs. Truth “Be honest” – vs. 25 We will not lie or be dishonest. Dishonesty includes: Outright deceit and masked deception Exaggeration (million times) Sarcasm (voice says one thing, face another) Failing to tell the whole truth; giving a false impression ...

Conflict breaks out between two people Philippians 4:1-7 Vs. 2 There is dissension between Euodia and Syntyche Vs. 4 Told to rejoice in the Lord Rejoicing is a choice that one makes; the manifestation of what is going on in our minds. Complaining is the opposite of rejoicing. Vs. 5 Told...

1. Identify what was going on when the upset occurred (time, place, people, situation).2. What were you thinking and feeling as it was going on?3. What did you do in response?4. What did you seek to accomplish by that response?5. What was the result?   biblical counseling, counseling worksheet,...

Homework Romans 8:26-39 – God’s love is so magnificent, greater than we can practically comprehend. Does your sin separate you from God’s love? Does God’s love leave you to wallow in your sin? (Titus 2:11-14) II Peter 1:9 – Have you forgotten what you are? What you were? (II Corinthians 6...

Following are some possible reasons why God allows trials and suffering. Study each of the Scriptures, and write down what you learn. Then choose the top three or four that you think may be applicable in your situation.   Un-confessed sin – 1 Corinthians 11:30, 2 Kings 5:15-27 ___________...

Matthew 18:21-35   Matthew 18:21-22 Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?"  Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.   In this parable, Jesus will turn you aw...