I am guided by two core beliefs about counseling.
We are called to adhere to 1 Corinthians 2:4-5:
“And my speech and my preaching were not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”
What this means to me is that regardless of what Freud or Jung might have to say about something, the Bible is our guide and final authority on how to help people.
“Biblical, Pastoral, and Nouthetic Counselors” often do not understand the job of a counselor.
I believe we are called to live Biblically. I also think that we are to use the tools God has given us. I often find that “Biblical/nouthetic counselors” and pastoral counselors do not understand the psychology of people so while I am led by the Word of God, I incorporate psychology to do so and find that most nouthetic or Biblical counselors have not been trained in this way.
I do not say this to disparage these counselors but highlight that I believe God has called me to practice in a way many others are not.
Why We Put Scripture First
- Proverbs 3:5-6 (CSB)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; in all your ways know him, and he will make your paths straight.”
This passage encourages trusting in God’s wisdom rather than our own.
- James 1:5 (CSB)
“Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given to him.”
This verse reminds believers to seek wisdom directly from God, who provides it generously.
- Colossians 2:8 (CSB)
“Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elements of the world, rather than Christ.”
This verse warns against human philosophies that contradict God’s Word, highlighting the priority of divine wisdom.
- 1 Corinthians 3:19 (CSB)
“For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God, since it is written: He catches the wise in their craftiness.”
This verse contrasts worldly wisdom with God’s superior wisdom, reinforcing the idea of relying on Scripture.