Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Counseling One Another

Helping you grow in God's all-sufficient grace and truth

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://counselingoneanother.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [RESOURCES: Suffering & Trials](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/07/resources-suffering-trials/) - Here's another recommended resource list for you. There are many more resource list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Christ and Your Problems (Jay Adams) Chronic Pain: Living by Faith when Your Body Hurts (Mike Emlet) HELP! I Can't Handle All of these Trials (Joel James) - a great helicopter view of
- [RESOURCES: Marijuana & the Christian](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/06/20/resources-marijuana-use/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth to others. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. PODCASTS The Church's Calling in an Age of Recreational Pot (Desiring God) BOOKS Can I Smoke Pot? - Marijuana and the Christian (Bradley Aucoin) Cannibas and the Christian: What
- [3 Reasons I Wrote “The Best Bath Ever!”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2026/05/19/3-reasons-i-wrote-the-best-bath-ever/) - Last fall, my second children’s book in the Pictures of Gospel Grace series, The Best Bath Ever: How God Washes Away Our Sin and Makes Us Brand New, quietly entered the world. This week, it has been getting some fresh attention on Instagram, so it seemed like a good time to share why I wrote
- [Rooted in the Right Place: Biblical Discipleship in a Therapeutic Age](https://counselingoneanother.com/2026/05/15/rooted-in-the-right-place-biblical-discipleship-in-a-therapeutic-age/) - We live in what many have called a “therapeutic age.” In our cultural moment, we often treat feelings as authority, view the self as the solution, and frequently discuss healing without referencing repentance, holiness, or reconciliation with God. Therapeutic language is everywhere. People speak of trauma, boundaries, triggers, self-care, and authenticity almost instinctively. Not all
- [Our Divine Shepherd](https://counselingoneanother.com/2026/03/04/our-divine-shepherd/) - To fully trust someone to lead and guide you—to be your shepherd—it’s essential to know their identity. Who are they? And what makes them trustworthy? That is how David begins Psalm 23, The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want (Psalm 23:1). David’s testimony in verse one is constructed from only four Hebrew words,
- [Our Shepherd Is Always Present](https://counselingoneanother.com/2026/03/10/our-shepherd-is-always-present/) - The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. (Psalm 23:1) In times of fear and danger—when we feel alone—we receive deep comfort from having someone walk withus. Simply knowing that another person is present can steady our trembling hearts. This was true for King David, too. When David wrote Psalm 23, he was not
- [Why Is Psalm 23 so Loved?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2026/02/26/why-is-psalm-23-so-loved/) - Unquestionably, Psalm 23 is the most famous of the 150 songs in the biblical book of Psalms, the hymnbook for the people of Israel. Throughout my life, I have seen this Scripture inscribed on greeting cards, printed in funeral service bulletins, and engraved on key chains. In my first pastorate, I also served as a
- [RESOURCES: Suicide](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/04/11/resources-suicide/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS/BOOKLETS/ARTICLES A Prayer for Those Left Behind After Suicide (Paul Tautges) Assessing and Counseling a Person with Suicidal Thoughts (Aaron Sironi) Conducting a Funeral when Suicide Is the Cause of Death
- [Be Discerning About "Boundaries"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/06/09/be-discerning-about-boundaries/) - Recently, I've needed to bring biblical clarification to others regarding the popular teaching known as "Boundaries." Here are three articles, and one book, I reviewed which I, again, found very helpful: Better Than Boundaries - While “boundaries” is a one-word, seemingly all-purpose answer, there is another approach that is more complex, nuanced, and faithful to
- [How God Performs Surgery on Our Hearts](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/10/26/how-god-performs-surgery-on-our-hearts/) - Continuing our 5-part series on the sufficiency of Scripture for life and godliness, another core text we need to meditate upon is Hebrews 4:12–13. Here we learn of the power of Scripture to perform surgery where true change begins — in the invisible, immaterial heart. Here we are given five characteristics of the Word of
- [Gunpowder Stored Up in Your Heart](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/12/19/gunpowder-stored-up-in-your-heart/) - "The source of harsh speech is a harsh heart." So writes John Crotts in his very helpful book, Graciousness: Tempering Truth with Love. Biblically speaking, all of our speech originates in our heart (Prov. 4:23; Matt. 12:34). Therefore, we must "work backwards" from sinful, harmful speech to the heart cause. The cause, Crotts insightfully illustrates,
- [RESOURCES: Domestic Abuse](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/09/27/resources-abuse/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Abuse: Finding Hope in Christ (John Henderson) Bad Memories: Getting Past Your Past (Robert Jones) HELP! I Can't Forgive (Jim Newcomer) HELP! I Can't Handle All These Trials (Joel James)
- [RESOURCES: Money/Debt/Finance](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/03/04/resources-finances-debt-reduction/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS/MINI-BOOKS Debt-Free Living (Larry Burkett) Free and Clear (Howard Dayton) HELP! I'm Drowning in Debt (John Temple) *This mini-book is a good starting point. Family Money Matters: How to run your
- [Six Benefits of Habitual Thankfulness in Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/11/25/six-benefits-of-habitual-thankfulness-in-prayer/) - At the close of Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, he offers a series of short, urgent commands that call believers to a steady rhythm of communion with God. Among them is the well‑known instruction: “In everything give thanks.” Jerry Bridges once observed that we “are anxious to receive but too careless to give thanks.
- [How Should We Treat People Who Reject Us?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2026/01/09/how-should-we-treat-people-who-reject-us/) - For the past fifteen years, it has been my unexpected privilege to serve as series editor for the LifeLine Mini-Books from Shepherd Press. Now fifty-six titles strong (with more in the queue), the series has earned a reputation for being biblically faithful, Christ-centered, heart-focused, and gracious in tone. By God’s kindness, these little books have
- [God Is with Us in Our Suffering, Sin, and Shame](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/12/25/god-is-with-us-in-our-suffering-sin-and-shame/) - Emmanuel, God with us. This is a wonder to behold. The eternal Son of God became man in the person of Jesus Christ, and broke into our darkness of suffering, sin, and shame to rescue and redeem people like you and me. Think about it. God is with us in our suffering. No one in this
- [Trust in Him at All Times](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/10/02/trust-in-him-at-all-times/) - This morning, these words from Jerry Bridges helped my heart move toward trust. It's difficult to believe God is in control when we're in the midst of heartache or grief. I've struggled with this many times myself. Each time I've had to decide if I would trust Him, even when my heart ached. I realized
- [Personal Growth Assignment: SUFFERING](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/10/14/personal-growth-assignment-suffering/) - We were born into a world that God cursed when humanity first sinned against him in the garden of Eden (Gen. 3:17). As a result, we groan. We groan because life hurts badly—sometimes with unspeakable sorrows. But, unlike those who do not know Jesus, we groan with hope. We groan while we wait for the
- [4 Reasons to Counsel One Another from Lamentations (#2)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/14/4-reasons-to-counsel-from-lamentations-2/) - In yesterday's post, we thought about the fact that sin never ultimately delivers its promises. Rather, it brings only pain and misery into our lives. For sure, sin does bring some of its promised pleasure, but that is only for a moment before its grief and enslavement take hold. When this happens, we are left
- [4 Reasons to Counsel One Another from Lamentations (#4)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/18/4-reasons-to-use-lamentations-to-counsel-the-suffering-4/) - In the first, second, and third of this 4-part series we noted three reasons God gave us the book of Lamentations. First, to show us the awful reality of sin so that our hearts will long for reconciliation with God. Second, to remind us how much we need God's faithfulness, mercy, and love. Third, to
- [RESOURCES: Depression & Spiritual Discouragement](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/09/07/resources-depression-spiritual-discouragement/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS & MINI-BOOKS A Lifting Up for the Downcast (old Puritan classic by William Bridge) A Student's Guide to Depression (John C. Kwasny) Christians Get Depressed Too (David Murray) - read
- [I was an Eclectic Counselor Yesterday](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/01/10/i-was-an-eclectic-counselor-yesterday/) - Yesterday, I had an enjoyable and very helpful discipleship counseling session with a brother in the Lord over the lunch hour. God in His providence linked us up a few months ago because we both tend to struggle with unhealthy perfectionism and its oft-accompanying self-focused depressive tendencies. He did not know this when he asked
- [BCC Reviews "HELP! My Toddler Rules the House"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/12/15/bcc-posts-review-of-help-my-toddler-rules-the-house/) - [The following review is written by Mark Tubbs and was posted by the Biblical Counseling Coalition.] Qualified Authors/Qualified Parents. If anyone possesses the credentials to write about childrearing, it is Paul and Karen Tautges. Not only do they have ten children, but they serve a congregation in Plymouth, Wisconsin, which has benefited from their solid and
- [4 Reasons to Counsel One Another from Lamentations (#3)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/15/4-reasons-to-use-lamentations-to-counsel-the-suffering-3/) - In the first and second post in this mini-series on the book of Lamentations, we noted two reasons God gave us this very sad book. First, to show us the awful reality of sin and its devastating consequences so that our hearts will long for reconciliation with our holy Creator. Second, to remind us how
- [4 Reasons to Counsel One Another from Lamentations (#1)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/12/4-reasons-to-counsel-from-lamentations-1/) - In truth, all suffering is ultimately caused by sin. Before sin entered the world there was no suffering. However, this does not mean that all personal suffering is the result of personal sin (John 9:3). But let's face it. If we are going to truly be biblical in our counseling then we must be ready
- [RESOURCES: Disorderly Eating](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/09/13/resources-disorderly-eating/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Eating Disorders: The Quest for Thinness (Ed Welch) Godliness through Discipline (Jay Adams) HELP! I'm a Slave to Food (Shannon McCoy) HELP! I Want to Change (Jim Newheiser) BOOKS Forge
- [Building a Pure Life - Part 1](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/01/31/building-a-pure-life-part-1/) - Today, and tomorrow, it is a joy for me to interview my friend and fellow pastor and biblical counselor Dave Coats on the subject of personal purity. Day One Publications has just released Dave’s new book, Building a Pure Life, which is a unique resource in workbook format that will surely be a blessing to
- [Write a Letter of Affirmation & Encouragement](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/02/19/write-a-letter-of-affirmation-encouragement/) - It is difficult to exaggerate the value of an encouraging letter, a letter which affirms the value of a person made in the image of God, and which affirms the work of God in others. In his excellent book, Practicing Affirmation, Sam Crabtree writes: Even with the Bible’s emphasis on humble self-denial and its warnings
- [Engaging the Mind, Heart, and Life through Word-centered Homework](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/08/31/engaging-the-mind-heart-and-life-through-word-centered-homework/) - Recently, a man who had attended a conference in 2010 emailed to request the homework examples I had given in the workshop I taught on the need for personal discipline in sanctification. It took a bit of digging to find them, but yesterday I stumbled upon them. Thought they may be of benefit to you,
- [4 Reasons to Study Lamentations](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/01/17/4-reasons-to-study-lamentations-in-your-small-group/) - [This is the first of four posts encouraging you to study the Old Testament book of Lamentations.] In truth, all suffering can be traced back to the entrance of sin into our world; that is, before sin entered the world there was no suffering. However, this does not mean that all personal suffering is the
- [40 Questions to Help Discern Factors Contributing to Depression](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/10/40-questions-to-help-discern-factors-contributing-to-depression/) - Last week, I was blessed to teach a two-hour seminar in our church’s discipleship counseling training center on the subject of depression. First, I shared my own personal experience with depression and anxiety, and then drew attention to the experiences of people in the Bible. Together, we noticed how they were tested, worked through their
- [Overcoming Depression: Help for Christians who Struggle](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/14/overcoming-depression-help-for-christians-who-struggle/) - Depression can be debilitating. Chances are very good that you already know this, personally, or know someone who struggles. Serious depression is a crippling state which may leave you unable to function normally and, sometimes, not even caring that it is so. You may feel sad. You may feel angry. You may not feel at
- [I'd Like to Introduce You to the Biblical Counseling Alliance](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/30/id-like-to-introduce-you-to-the-biblical-counseling-alliance/) - Last month, I had the privilege to teach a webinar on anxiety with the Biblical Counseling Alliance. If you are not familiar with this resource ministry, let me introduce you to them. In January of 2016, out of the efforts of individuals and three local churches the Biblical Counseling Alliance began as an organization seeking
- [Why I Love to Assign the Sermon on the Mount for Counseling Homework](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/08/31/why-i-love-to-assign-the-sermon-on-the-mount-for-counseling-homework/) - As a biblical counselor, my heart's desire is to help others get to the heart of their struggles---to help them to experience life-transforming change wrought by the Spirit of God through the Word of God. The Confessional Statement of the Biblical Counseling Coalition emphasizes this commitment this way: We believe that human behavior is tied
- [Hope for Women with Breast Cancer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/08/06/hope-for-women-with-breast-cancer/) - One of the beauties of God’s wisdom is the way he uses our trials to equip us to counsel one another—just as it says in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4. As a result, many times the best counselors are those who’ve “been there.” When we encounter various trials, it is a comfort to know there are others
- [Find Relief by Talking to God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/09/25/find-relief-by-talking-to-god/) - The Lord will save me, and we will play my music on stringed instruments all the days of our lives, at the house of the Lord. - Isaiah 38:20 Hezekiah, one of the kings of Israel in Isa­iah’s day, was thirty-nine years old when he heard the diagnosis terminal illness. The prophet Isaiah delivered the
- [RESOURCES: Sexual Sin (Adultery, Porn, Masturbation)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/23/resources-pornographymasturbation/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more lists in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Help for MEN: He's Struggling with Pornography (Brian Croft), also in Kindle Help for PARENTS: My Kids Are Viewing Pornography (Tim Challies), also in Kindle Help for WOMEN: She’s Struggling with
- [Fighting Fear with Fear](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/06/15/fighting-fear-with-fear/) - It's been a few weeks since my review of Wayne & Joshua Mack's book, Courage, was published at Books At a Glance, but it came to my mind this morning when I recommended the book to someone who is counseling a young lady battling severe bouts of fear and, therefore, needs to cultivate a deeper
- [RESOURCES: Anxiety, Fear, Panic](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/27/resources-anxiety-fear-panic/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Anger, Anxiety, and Fear (Stuart Scott) Anxiety: Anatomy and Cure (Bob Kellemen) Fear: Breaking Its Grip (Lou Priolo) HELP! I Can't Handle All These Trials (Joel James) HELP! I Get
- [RESOURCES: Gambling (Updated & Expanded)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/07/23/resources-gambling/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS/BOOKLETS "Freedom of the Will or Bondage of the Will?" - (Chapter on gambling) in Decisions, Decisions: Seeking God’s Guidance (Dave Swavely_ Hope & Help for Gambling (Mark Shaw) MONEY: Seeking
- [Preorder My New Children's Book!](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/07/26/preorder-my-new-childrens-book/) - About three years ago, the idea for a new children’s book series began to take shape in my heart—Pictures of Gospel Grace. My hope for this series is simple but profound: to help children see how God’s saving grace runs throughout the Bible, even in the lesser-known stories. Each book is designed to point little
- [The Giver's Life Is Enriched by God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/11/17/the-givers-life-is-enriched-by-god/) - Hitchhiking on Tuesday's post, let's think a little more about the heart of giving. Particularly, let's think about 2 Corinthians 9:6-11, in which the apostle continues his admonition. The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided
- [RESOURCES: Shame](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/12/08/resources-shame/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Feeling Guilty? (Scott Brown) Freedom from Guilt (Tim Lane) Help! I Feel Ashamed (Sue Nicewander Delaney) Help! I'm Addicted (Jim Berg) Helping Children with Shame (Ed Welch) BOOKS A Painful
- [Personal Growth Assignment: PORNOGRAPHY](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/07/15/personal-growth-assignment-pornography/) - Pornography is the #1 sin-plague of our day. According to Covenant Eyes, an average of 61% of the general population views pornography regularly (78% of men and 44% of women). We could wish this were only true outside of the Christian church, but sadly, that is not the case. Therefore, believers must be equipped to
- [Personal Growth Assignment: ANXIETY](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/07/11/personal-growth-assignment-anxiety/) - Anxiety is a persistent part of human experience. It’s so widespread that about 23 million Americans have panic attacks, and millions more report living with various forms of anxiety disorders. Scripture speaks honestly and helpfully to this struggle—it shines a light on the way anxiety affects our bodies and minds, and it builds the faith
- [Personal Growth Assignments (Not Just Homework)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/07/07/personal-growth-assignments-not-just-homework/) - “I’m not a counselor; I’m a pastor who counsels his people.” That’s how I usually describe my ministry. My passion is to help individuals come to know Christ and walk with Him in the power of the Spirit. This extends beyond the public ministry of preaching to the personal ministry of the Word—what I often
- [Treating Others Gently](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/06/17/treating-others-gently/) - Since becoming a Christian in 1984, I’ve been deeply instructed and shaped by the Bible teaching of Jerry Bridges. The first of his books to impact me was The Pursuit of Holiness, which laid a foundation for understanding my role in sanctification—growth in Christlikeness. Years later, in Transforming Grace, Jerry acknowledged the need for biblical
- [Counseling Should Not Be Mechanical](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/05/28/engineering-vs-counseling/) - As a trainer of men and women who aim to be certified in biblical counseling, I require my students to read two extra books and write a review of each. One of these books is A Biblical Counseling Process: Guidance for the Beginning, Middle, and End by Lauren Whitman. Here is one student's testimony of
- [3 Criteria of Righteous Anger](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/08/22/3-criteria-of-righteous-anger/) - One of the most common, ongoing struggles we face in our sanctification as believers is the area of anger. One of the most common ways we mismanage our anger is by failing to distinguish between righteous and sinful outrage and response. This failure is sometimes due to our conscious choice not to face our sin
- [Our God Will Fight for Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/05/21/our-god-will-fight-for-us/) - In our church, we are working through Ezra and Nehemiah's books. In both books, we see the presence of opposition to God's work and those who participate in it. This reminds us of an easily forgotten truth: Wherever God is at work, the devil is there, too. This has been true since the beginning of
- [Together at Last](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/13/together-at-last/) - Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. (Rev. 21:1) There is much to think about…so much that is packed in that little word “then.” Most immediately, the apostle John is transitioning from multiple chapters describing
- [Sample Contracts for 'Twixters,' 'Kippers' and 'Boomerang Kids'](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/09/06/sample-contracts-for-twixters-kippers-and-boomerang-kids/) - “Social scientists have noticed that more young adults (those between eighteen and thirty years old) are putting off the responsibilities of adulthood. Adultolescence is the term that best describes this postponement of adulthood into the thirties. This phase is characterized by identity exploration, instability, focus on self, feeling in limbo, and a sense of limitless
- [RESOURCES: Mental Illness, Disorders, & Psychiatric Diagnoses](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/05/23/resources-mental-illness/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Bipolar Disorder (Ed Welch) Borderline Personality: A Scriptural Perspective (Cathy Wiseman) HELP! I'm Depressed (Carol Trahan) HELP! I've Been Diagnosed with a Mental Disorder (Christine Chappell) HELP! My Friend Is
- [Testing the Teachings of Roman Catholicism](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/04/25/testing-the-teachings-of-roman-catholicism/) - Scripture is the inspired Word of God and the ultimate authority for what we believe (John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; 2 Peter 1:16–21). However, though I was raised in the Roman Catholic Church, I never opened a Bible until I was nineteen when I joined a home Bible study focused on the Gospel of John.
- [Saving the Gospel: A Helicopter View of Galatians](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/31/saving-the-gospel-a-helicopter-view-of-galatians/) - According to the Barna Group’s 2016 State of the Church report, Most people in this country identify themselves as Christian. Almost three-quarters of Americans (73%) say they are a Christian. However, 55% believe that if a person is generally good, or does enough good things for others during their life, they will earn a place
- [Ongoing Remedies for Spiritual Depression](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/12/ongoing-remedies-for-spiritual-depression/) - The past two days were happily spent with David Murray and his film crew as they work to produce a DVD teaching series for small groups on the subject of how Christians can deal with depression. During the interview in our living room, David asked me how I work through periods of deep discouragement, or
- [Study Guide for Lloyd-Jones's "Spiritual Depression"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/07/10/study-guide-for-lloyd-joness-spiritual-depression/) - Today, I am delighted to learn that Granted Ministries has brought into print a hard-cover edition of Martyn Lloyd-Jones' classic, Spiritual Depression, which also includes audio messages. In addition, GM provides a FREE study guide. Here's what the publisher says about this unique resource: "It is our opinion that Spiritual Depression: Its Causes and Cure
- [We Are All Barabbas](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/04/19/we-are-barabbas/) - When we read the history of Jesus’s crucifixion, we may easily skim over a man named Barabbas. But we shouldn’t overlook him—because, in many ways, we are all Barabbas. Barabbas was a rebel. And so are we.Isaiah 53:6 says, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way.” Like Barabbas,
- [A Corporate Prayer of Confession](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/03/30/a-corporate-prayer-of-confession/) - Yesterday, our church continued our study of Ezra and Nehemiah in a series titled Repent, Restore, Rebuild. After reflecting on Ezra’s prayer of confession for the returning exiles (Ezra 9:5-15), I led our congregation in a similar prayer. Two members requested a copy after the service, so I’m sharing it here for others who may
- [RESOURCES: Alzheimer's & Dementia](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/20/resources-dementia/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Alzheimer's Disease: Help for Families in Crisis (Robert Smith) Caring for an Aging Parent (Byron Peters) HELP! Someone I Love Has Alzheimer's (Deborah Howard) **I recommend you start here. HELP!
- [7 Bible Passages to Know before Jehovah’s Witnesses Knock on Your Door](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/28/7-bible-passages-to-know-before-jehovahs-witnesses-knock-on-your-door/) - Last week, I had the joy of attending a regional EFCA gathering at which Greg Strand gave us a wonderful refresher on the doctrine of Christ. While reviewing the deity of Jesus Christ, we discussed how often the divine title “God” is used of Jesus the Son. Since Jehovah’s Witnesses deny the deity of Christ,
- [RESOURCES: Gender Identity/Transgenderism](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/23/resources-gender-identity/) - Here are some resources that may help you minister grace and truth to those who are struggling with gender identity. There are many more Resource List links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS & MINI-BOOKS Affirming God’s Image: Addressing the Transgender Question with Science and Scripture (Alan Branch) Does God Care about Gender
- [Grace Gives Us Wings](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/03/03/grace-gives-us-wings/) - For the past few years, I have been augmenting my morning Bible time by reading daily devotionals. This year it is Holiness Day by Day, which comprises 365 brief excerpts from the writings of one of my spiritual mentors, Jerry Bridges. Last week, Jerry reflected on how 1 Thessalonians 4:9 teaches us that God’s grace
- [RESOURCES: Marriage](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/06/15/resources-marriage-counseling/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List for you. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Enhancing Marital Oneness (Armand & Kathy Tiffe) God, Marriage, and Family: Rebuilding the Biblical Foundation (Andreas Kostenberger) HELP! Disability Pressures Our Marriage (Ernie Baker) HELP! I Want to Be a Loving Husband (Daniel Stegeman)
- [Uncovering Domestic Abuse](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/02/19/uncovering-domestic-abuse/) - For the past decade, the biblical counseling world has been working to produce insightful resources to address the epidemic of domestic abuse, which is more prevalent in Christian homes and churches than we realize. Therefore, I am excited about a new mini-book, Uncovering Domestic Abuse: Knowing What to Look For, by counseling pastor Timothy St.
- [RESOURCES: Spanish](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/01/12/resources-in-spanish/) - If you are looking for biblical counseling and discipleship resources in Spanish, check out these links. They are listed in alphabetical order. As always, remember there are many topical resource lists in the right-hand margin of this homepage. Association of Certified Biblical Counselors Biblical Counseling Books Faith Biblical Counseling Ministry New Growth Press Publications Faro
- [RESOURCES: Grief, Loss, & Dying](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/18/resources-grief-dying/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS At a Time Like This (Simon Manchester) Caring for an Aging Parent (Bryon Peters) Facing Death with Hope (David Powlison) Grief and Your Child (Bob Kellemen) Grief: Finding Hope Again
- [RESOURCES: Addiction, Avoidance, & Habitual Sin](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/09/01/resources-for-battling-addictions/) - Many solid resources address the issue of habits of avoidance and spiritual enslavement. Here are just a few to consider for personal study, one-to-one discipleship counseling, and your small group. MINI-BOOKS Breaking the Addictive Cycle (David Powlison) Freedom from Addiction: Turning from Your Addictive Behavior (Ed Welch) Just One More (Ed Welch) HELP! He's Struggling
- [Think On These Things](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/10/26/think-on-these-things/) - Continuing from yesterday, we need to take heed to the command given to us in Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Here the
- [RESOURCES: Conflicts](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/09/05/resources-conflicts/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS/MINIBOOKS Bitterness: When You Can’t Move On (Paul Tautges) Communication and Conflict Resolution (Stuart Scott) Family Feuds (Tim Lane) HELP! I'm in a Conflict (Ernie Baker) HELP! My Anger Is Out of
- [Shepherd of My Life (a prayer for the grieving)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/02/06/shepherd-of-my-life-a-prayer/) - “No matter how biblical your perspective, there will be times when grief knocks you off your feet. Take heart; your Good Shepherd is beside you in that shadowy valley until it ends---and one day it will end.” So writes Randy Alcorn near the end of his compassionate minibook, Grieving with Hope: Walking with Jesus in
- [To the Wife with a Passive-Aggressive Husband](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/16/a-wifes-shame-qa/) - The following email recently arrived in my Inbox. The woman who wrote it has encouraged me to share it. I know someone whose husband is “passive aggressive,” and it is hurting the whole family. He is a Christian and well-respected in the church, yet he has never really repented of any specific sin, but rather
- [Transform Conference in Spokane, WA - February 24-25](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/02/11/transform-conference-in-spokane-wa-february-24-25/) - Suffering and the Kindness of God is the theme for this year's Transform Conference hosted by Faith Bible Church in Spokane, Washington. The titles of my main sessions are: Where Is God in Our Suffering? God has Godly Purposes for Our Suffering The Grace of Christ Is Sufficient for Our Suffering Jesus Is Making All
- [What to Remember When You're Close to Burnout](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/01/14/what-to-remember-when-youre-close-to-burnout/) - “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matt. 11:30) A yoke is a bar that joins two animals together to haul a load. It makes their work easier because their burden is now shared. When we answer Jesus’s invitation to come to him and accept his gift of rest, he offers us
- [Reflections on Forty Years of Being Born Again](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/12/29/forty-years-being-born-again/) - In the early months of 1984, the Holy Spirit caused me to be born again in Christ through a home Bible study in the Gospel of John. In some ways, it’s hard to believe four decades have passed. In other ways, it seems the time has flown. So many life changes during that time stimulated
- [10 Distinctives of Biblical Soul Care (Counseling)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/05/13/10-distinctives-of-biblical-counseling/) - People often ask me how biblical counseling differs from other approaches to soul care. Here’s a summary I’ve been teaching for almost two decades, which I hope will help you grow in understanding sanctification. This week, look up the Scriptures listed and meditate on God’s abundant provision through the Spirit and the Word. See how
- [The Sin of Talking Too Much](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/09/01/the-sin-of-talking-too-much/) - Is it a sin to talk too much? Well, that depends. Years ago, my men’s small group discussed the discipline of the tongue. After reading a chapter in Disciplines of a Godly Man by Kent Hughes, and verses from Proverbs that address the issue, some of us were tempted to stop talking all together! However,
- [Where Do You Look for Assurance of Salvation?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2025/01/02/where-do-you-look-for-assurance-of-salvation/) - If the need to be saved from our sins is our biggest problem in life (and it is!), then it is good that you want to be 100% certain that this problem is 100% solved. The problem of sin and separation from God demands your serious consideration. Scripture calls you to test and carefully inspect
- [Seven Disciplines for Working Through Depression](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/12/01/seven-ways-to-work-through-depression/) - Depression, or deep discouragement of the soul, has been part of the human experience since the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. Whether it is related to bodily disease, grief from a loss, a conscience bothered by sin, or mysteriously connected to the fabric of our inner person (we are not all bubbly,
- [RESOURCES: Disability/Special Needs](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/03/resources-disability-special-needs/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Autism: Help a Friend (Joni Eareckson Tada) Family Disability Toolkit (Joni & Friends, Paul Tautges) HELP! I Have Parkinson's Disease (Matt Mumma) HELP! Disability Pressures Our Marriage (Ernie Baker) HELP!
- [Four Reasons Every Christian Should Vote](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/11/05/4-reasons-you-should-vote-today/) - [Originally posted November 3, 2015] I'm thankful for my father and mother who set an example of faithful citizenship. From my earliest days, I remember Mom and Dad going to the local town hall to vote. Back then I didn’t understand what voting was and why it was so important to them. Additionally, for several
- [To the Man with an Unsaved Wife](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/11/19/to-the-man-with-an-unbelieving-wife/) - “There are plenty of stories about the Christian woman who has an unconverted husband, one who hasn’t put his trust in Christ as Savior. But what about the marriages in which it’s the other way around? Too often we neglect how a believing man lives with his unbelieving wife.” Larry McCall writes in his book
- [How Our Lust for Man's Approval Blinds Us to Sin](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/10/14/how-our-lust-for-mans-approval-blinds-us-to-sin/) - Last year, Lou Priolo, a gracious friend and mentor went to be with the Lord. Afterward, I pulled some of his books off my shelf and was reminded of how the Spirit used him to counsel me. One book, in particular, helped me see more evidence of the fear of man in my heart than
- [13 Favorite Quotes from “The Church as a Culture of Care”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/10/07/13-favorite-quotes-from-the-church-as-a-culture-of-care/) - Last week, I finished reading Dale Johnson’s book The Church as a Culture of Care. I was blessed and encouraged by his call to return soul care to the body life of the church. So, I thought I’d share some of my favorite sentences and paragraphs. I gave them thematic titles for easier reading. Scripture
- [God Is Not Surprised by Postpartum Depression](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/09/30/god-is-not-surprised-by-postpartum-depression/) - I didn’t expect to experience postpartum depression after the birth of our third child. Having been through the newborn phase twice before, I wondered why this time was so much harder for me than the others. Disappointment and discouragement seemed to define those newborn weeks. I wasn’t performing like the strong and capable mother I
- [My Newest Book: A Student's Guide to Grief](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/09/26/my-newest-book-a-students-guide-to-grief/) - “Grandpa died,” my mom said when her phone call from Grandma ended. I was a sophomore in high school. After retiring from his career as an assembler of wood-paneled station wagons at the Ford Motor Company, my mom’s father spent every morning working in his garden. One day in May, after returning to the house
- [RESOURCES: Counseling Theology & Methodology](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/05/18/resources-counseling-theology-methodology/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more resources in the right-hand margin of this homepage. THEOLOGY OF COUNSELING A Theology of Biblical Counseling (Heath Lambert) Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave (Ed Welch) Counseling One Another: A Theology of Interpersonal Discipleship (Paul Tautges) How People Change (Paul
- [Using Psalm 51 as a Guide to Confessing Your Sin](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/09/24/using-psalm-51-as-a-guide-to-confessing-your-sin/) - The history of Ohio, the state where I live and serve as a pastor, contains the account of the Cuyahoga River Fire of 1969, which is one of the most significant fires in history. On the morning of June 22, 1969, an oil slick on the river caught fire. Though it burned for only half
- [RESOURCES: Parenting Prodigal Children](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/23/resources-parenting-prodigal-children/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS & MINI-BOOKS Come Back, Barbara: A Father's Pursuit of a Prodigal Daughter (John Miller and Barbara Juliani) From Heartbroken to Hopeful: Gospel Hope for Parents with Prodigals (Shirley Elliot) It's Not
- [RESOURCES: Infertility/Miscarriage/Stillbirth/Pregnancy Loss](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/12/29/resources-infertility-miscarriage/) - Here are some resources to encourage your heart and/or minister grace and truth to those who are struggling with infertility or miscarriage. There are many more Resource List links on other topics in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS/BOOKS A Hope Deferred: Adoption and the Fatherhood of God (J. Stephen Yuille) HELD: 31 Biblical
- [The Best Definition of Gossip](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/03/17/the-best-definition-of-gossip/) - “Gossip” is a hard word to define, almost like trying to nail Jell-O to the wall. Some say gossip is passing along information that is not true, while others say it is simply the passing along of any information about another person, regardless of accuracy. But I think Matt Mitchell, pastor of Lance Evangelical Free
- [Raising Mature Sons in the Faith](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/08/20/raising-mature-sons-in-the-faith/) - Whether God gives you familial sons, biological and/or adopted, every Christian man is called to help raise the next generation of “sons in the faith.” If you are interested in thinking about the discipleship of young men in the church, you may benefit from this lesson that I taught at the monthly men's breakfast at
- [A Biblical Counseling Process (a student response)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/08/13/a-biblical-counseling-process-student-review/) - As a teaching fellow for the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors, I enjoy being involved in the final phase of training for men and women who want to become a certified biblical counselor. As a fellow, I require my students to read two additional books and then to write a report on each. Having been
- [Eight Sins of Discord](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/16/8-sins-of-discord/) - For almost three decades, Alexander Strauch has consistently produced books that are biblically faithful and carefully written. In step with that pattern is his newest, If You Bite & Devour One Another: Biblical Principles for Handling Conflict. My first appreciation for Strauch's newest work is the emphasis upon examining our hearts concerning the attitudes that
- [Two Biblical Warnings Against Sinful Anger and Bitterness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/07/23/two-biblical-warnings-against-sinful-anger-and-bitterness/) - In the Bible, the heart is the always-active, ever-worshiping, always-wanting-something control center of our lives. Therefore, when something or someone gets in the way of our desires and expectations, we are tempted to respond in anger. Then, if we allow anger to linger, we grow bitter, which hurts us and others. In the book of
- [Trusting God When Your Suffering Is Nobody's Fault](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/07/12/trusting-god-when-suffering-is-nobodys-fault/) - As he passed by, he saw a man blind from birth. And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.” John 9:1–3 Eighteen
- [What Do You Do When Your Suffering Is Your Fault?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/07/10/what-do-you-do-when-your-suffering-is-your-fault/) - You have dealt with me because of all my transgressions; for my groans are many, and my heart is faint. Lamentations 1:22 Suffering that is nobody’s fault may be hard to accept. Perhaps more difficult, though, are painful situations that we bring upon ourselves. When we realize what we’ve done, repent, and confess our foolishness
- [Death Is the Suburbs of Heaven](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/06/30/death-is-the-suburbs-of-heaven/) - Heaven has been on my mind a lot this week, as our church experienced two losses. But though we grieve, we do not grieve as those who have no hope. Instead, hope in Christ fuels enduring joy. Therefore, the timeliness of today’s reading from Refreshment for the Soul was especially fitting. It is Richard Sibbes’s
- [How Mephibosheth's Story of Acceptance Points Us to God's Extravagant Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/06/11/how-mephibosheth-points-us-to-gods-extravagant-grace/) - This past Sunday, I was asked to read my new children's book to the elementary age children during our worship service. Several teachers also read it to the toddler and preschool classes, and our autistic daughter got to read it to her Together disAbility class. As a result, some people asked where I got the
- [Meditate on God's Word](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/20/meditate-on-gods-word/) - Since our church service was cancelled, due to heavy snow, strong winds, and extreme cold, we gathered in our Family Room to learn from Psalm 1. Here’s the outline that I walked the family through, discussing its truths, and applying it to our hearts. We learned that true success and prosperity come to those who
- [HELP! My Grandchild Has a Disability](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/05/07/help-my-grandchild-has-a-disability/) - The day your first grandchild was born you were not invited to consider grandparenting; suddenly you were a grandparent. That’s because grandparenting is a calling. Callings are not freely chosen. In the truest sense, callings are imposed on us. They are not sought, found, or discovered; they are answered. At first, this arrangement may not
- [Nuggets](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/22/nuggets-87/) - PODCAST: Hope + Help for Pornography Addiction - Solid and really helpful counsel for Christian men and women from Deepak Reju. How to Read the Bible Better - Many of us started reading the Bible shortly after becoming Christians, but we were never really taught how to read the Bible. This article give six principles.
- [Christmas Gift Ideas to Encourage Spiritual Growth in Your Children](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/25/christmas-gift-ideas-to-encourage-spiritual-growth-in-children/) - As a young mom I often wracked my brain at this time of year for just one more gift idea for my children that wasn’t toys or clothes. I got in the habit of giving them each a book at Christmas. In fact, I still give each member of my family a book for Christmas and
- [Grandparenting with Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/21/grandparenting-with-grace/) - “When my wife and I were asked to teach a class on gospel-centered grandparenting at our local church, we were taken a bit by surprise. It’s not that we were against the idea. We just hadn’t given it much thought. And I’m a pastor!” so writes Larry McCall in his encouraging new book. Grandparenting with
- [Biblical Principles for Grandparenting a Child with a Disability](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/09/21/god-sends-grandparents/) - Have you seen the bumper sticker that says, “We’re spending our children’s inheritance”? Parents committed to Scripture should change that slogan to: “Our children are our inheritance” (see Psalm 127:3 KJV). This applies equally to grandparenting. We receive grandchildren from the Lord as an inheritance, and we give them back to our family, church, and
- [A Prayer for a Child Grieving a Death](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/19/a-prayer-for-a-child-grieving-a-death/) - Last week, I received my order of Kathleen Nielson's new four-volume set of Prayers of a Parents books and, O, how I love them already! The following is from the first volume, Prayers of a Parent for Young Children. Lord, I would want to keep my child from seeing how death keeps reaching in to
- [Little Pilgrim's Big Journey](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/15/little-pilgrims-big-journey/) - One evening, a couple weeks ago, my daughter and I took turns reading every other page of this new book, while my younger sons eagerly listened. We intended to read only a few chapters, but couldn't put it down. So, we ended up reading the entire book in one sitting. Little Pilgrim's Big Journey is
- [God Understands and Is Compassionate Toward Parents of Prodigal Children](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/05/09/god-understands-and-is-compassionate-toward-parents-of-prodigal-children/) - Many faithful Christian parents have been taught that Proverbs 22:6 is a sure-fire promise, not a general life principle. This, along with being told that if you parent a certain way your children will always make the right decisions and know the Lord, can plunge these dear parents into disillusionment and despair. If this describes
- [Six Reasons to Find Your Deepest Delight in the Word](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/05/17/6-reasons-to-delight-in-the-word/) - There are at least six reasons why it is spiritually profitable for us to mimic the psalmist’s resolution, “I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word” (Psalm 119:16). Delighting in the Word leads to spiritual stability and fruitfulness (Psalm 1:1-3). Abundant fruitfulness and oak-like stability in the Christian life are
- [Story of a Prodigal Daughter](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/04/18/story-of-a-prodigal-daughter/) - Have you ever experienced the pain of watching a loved one leave the faith? Even in the most discouraging moments we can be encouraged because God is in the business of leading prodigals home. In this episode of the Great Stories podcast, Charles Morris returns to an interview he did in Philadelphia with his long-time
- [RESOURCES: Trauma](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/04/11/resources-trauma/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of the homepage. BOOKS & MINIBOOKS Biblical Crisis Counseling, Not If But When (John Babler) I Have a Psychiatric Diagnosis (Ed Welch) I Have PTSD: Reorienting After Trauma (Curtis Solomon) Lament for a Father:
- [Take Your Guilt and Sins to God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/04/11/take-your-guilt-and-sins-to-god/) - As we wrap up our four-week series, Redeeming Trauma, we need to pay attention to the first chapter of the book of Lamentations, which guides in how to think about extreme suffering which may be part of God's faithful discipline. The book of Lamentations is a testimony to the sovereign faithfulness of God in judgment
- [RESOURCES: Premarital](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/03/11/resources-premarital/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS & MINIBOOKS Catching Foxes (John Henderson) Engagement: Preparing for Marriage, 31-day devotional (Mike McKinley) God, Marriage, and Family (Andreas Kostenberger) Letters to a Romantic on Engagement (Spencer Harmon, Sean Perron)
- [Help! Our Child Identifies as Transgender](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/04/09/help-our-child-identifies-as-transgender/) - Transgenderism, a fringe issue not that long ago, is now mainstream in the USA. The number of people identifying as transgender has ballooned in recent years. If your child has declared that he or she is transgender, you face a serious trial and an intense spiritual battle. If you believe and live out the truth
- [Turn to God for Help](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/04/04/turn-to-god-for-help/) - This is our third week in Psalm 22. Throughout this time, my goal has been to shine the light of Scripture on trauma, so that we may discern reality and discover the hope, comfort, and soul-healing found only in Jesus—the suffering Savior. Throughout our lives, we endure various forms of suffering. Some is extreme in
- [God Will Reward Your Faithfulness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/04/02/god-will-reward-your-faithfulness/) - On a shelf in my home office, there is a brass clock engraved with the words “Volunteer of the Year, 1998.” I received the clock for serving as a hospice chaplain with the Visiting Nurse Association of Wisconsin. I attended to patients and their families because the Holy Spirit placed the ministry of comfort on
- [Trust God to Be Present](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/03/27/trust-god-to-be-present/) - When we experience extreme suffering, we have many needs, both physical and spiritual. But our deepest need is to find rest and security in the One who created us in His image and redeems us in Jesus. He alone knows all our sufferings, and he cares more deeply for us than anyone else does. We
- [Talk to God about what Hurts](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/03/20/talk-to-god-about-what-hurts/) - When life is painful, God invites us to talk to Him about it. He wants us to cry out to him in humility--to talk to him about what hurts--that we might grow in our childlike trust in Him and His Word. This article is the first of four on a topic that we hear about
- [RESOURCES: Post Traumatic Stress](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/03/resources-post-traumatic-stress/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS & MINI-BOOKS Helping Your Family Through PTSD (Greg Gifford) HELP! I Can't Handle All these Trials (Joel James) HELP! I'm In a Conflict (Ernie Baker) HELP! I've Been Traumatized by
- [Fear, Unbelief, and Our Sinful Desire for Control](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/03/09/fear-and-our-sinful-desire-for-control/) - In the past few months, I read Jack Miller’s book, The Heart of a Servant Leader, and was blessed. The book is a collection of personal letters written to coworkers in ministry, as well as individuals who needed biblical, pastoral counsel. In one letter, written to a young woman named Mary whom he was evangelizing,
- [25 Ways to Provoke Your Children to Anger](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/12/04/rerun-25-ways-to-provoke-our-children-to-anger/) - How much of the anger in my home is caused by me? That’s a painful question. As parents, fathers in particular, we must heed God’s Word from Ephesians 6:4. Of course, this is not to say that all of our children’s anger is caused by us! Each of our children is personally responsible for his
- [Have You Ever Asked Your Church Elders to Visit and Pray with You?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/02/15/have-you-ever-asked-your-church-elders-to-visit-and-pray-with-you/) - One of the blessings of being a pastor is the opportunity to be part of a team of elders who visit church members in their homes for the purpose of ministering the Word and praying with them in times of suffering. Sadly, many church elders forgo this blessing and many believers do not request these
- [RESOURCES: Homosexuality/Same-Sex Attraction](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/07/01/resource-same-sex-attractions/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS & MINI-BOOKS Coming Clean: Overcoming Lust through Biblical Accountability [free E-book] (Luke Gilkerson, Covenant Eyes) Counseling the Hard Cases [Chapter 9] (Stuart Scott and Heath Lambert, eds) HELP! I Want
- [Avoid the Christ-Diminishing Error of Self-Forgiveness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/02/07/avoid-the-christ-diminishing-error-of-self-forgiveness/) - My longing for a theological study that synthesizes the dual role of Christ as both the Lion of Judah and the Lamb of God is satisfied in a new, immensely readable and thoroughly biblical book from Owen Strachan, Warrior Savior: A Theology of the Work of Christ. This book consistently exalts Jesus Christ and his
- [There’s More to Identity than You May Think](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/01/23/theres-more-to-identity-than-you-may-think/) - My adult children all have three-lens cameras built into their phones. The multiple lenses enable them to zoom in on our grandbabies’ adorable faces, get a wide-angle view of an ocean sunset, and capture better images in low-light conditions. The combined work of these lenses enhances photo quality and results in sharper images. Similarly, focusing
- [RESET - Learning the Grace-Fueled Life](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/10/12/reset-learning-the-grace-fueled-life/) - RESET: Living a Grace-Paced Life in a Burnout Culture is a compassionate and courageous book. Reading it from "the other side of burnout" gave me much-needed perspective. About five years ago, I began to receive some of the counsel now bound into this book, since David Murray was one of several faithful brothers who walked
- [The Word of God in the Soul of Man](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/01/19/the-word-of-god-in-the-soul-of-man/) - The one true God speaks, and that is how the Bible opens. Immediately following its first words, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth,” the phrase God said occurs eight times (Genesis 1:1-26). Clearly, the Holy Spirit did not want us to miss this point! Psalm 33:9 affirms: “He spoke, and it
- [Why You Need to Pay Attention to Proverbs 18:17](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/11/29/one-sure-way-to-be-unhelpful-to-others/) - One of the most important, yet most neglected, biblical principles to remember when getting involved in the lives of others—especially those who are experiencing conflict—is found in Proverbs 18:17, The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him. This truism serves as a warning to all of us
- [Our Thoughts and Desires Reveal Who We Are](https://counselingoneanother.com/2024/01/05/our-thoughts-and-desires-reveal-who-we-are/) - On the first day of this year, I began reading through a new daily devotional that I purchased at a conference last fall. Refreshment for the Soul: A Year of Daily Readings from the ‘Heavenly Doctor’ contains brief readings drawn from the extensive writings of the Puritan Richard Sibbes. Today's post contains the January 3rd
- [God Is Not Like Santa Claus](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/12/22/god-is-not-like-santa-claus/) - God is not like a department store Santa Claus asking through his white beard, "Have you been good this year?" - as though we need to qualify for the Christmas gift. Yet all too often that is how we think of him. No. The God who gave his only Son to be born and die
- [Hope + Help for Embracing Your Complete Identity in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/12/20/hope-help-for-christian-identity/) - Hope + Help Podcast · Hope + Help for Christian Identity with Paul Tautges In this new podcast episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell and I discuss what it means to embrace our complete identity in Christ. Some of the questions addressed in this interview are: • What does “Christian identity”
- [RESOURCES: Identity in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/08/15/resources-identity-in-christ/) - Here are some resources that may help you grow in your own walk with Christ, and to minister grace and truth to others. There are many more Resource List links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS Do You Believe What God Says About You? (Stephen Viars) Gospel Identity: Discovering Who You Really Are
- [How Long Does Grieving Take?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/12/12/how-long-does-grieving-take-3/) - How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? Psalm 13:1-2 Loss is not always sudden, like it was for Job (Job 1:13–19). Sometimes it is gradual. Sometimes
- [20 Quotes from Ed Welch’s “A SMALL BOOK ABOUT A BIG PROBLEM” [Anger]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/22/20-quotes-from-ed-welchs-a-small-book-about-a-big-problem-anger/) - Last night, I was drawn back into Ed Welch’s excellent (and convicting) little book, which I had read when it first came out. Paging through A Small Book about a Big Problem, I reviewed all of the sentences that I had underlined. Doing so was like inviting a seasoned counselor into my living room for
- [When People Are Big and God Is Small (Ed Welch)             ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/04/22/when-people-are-big-and-god-is-small-ed-welch/) - Over twenty years ago, When People Are Big and God Is Small: Overcoming Peer Pressure, Co-Dependency, and the Fear of Man made an enormous impact on my thinking. Most recently, our church staff is being blessed and challenged by it in our weekly meeting. Obviously, it has helped millions of others since it has sold
- [A Podcast Discussion About Panic and Fear](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/11/29/panic-vs-fear-anchored-hope-podcast/) - Earlier this week, I had the joy and privilege to be a guest on the Anchored Hope podcast. The topic on this episode of their This vs. That program was panic and fear. I hope our open discussion will be personally beneficial as well as help you in your one-another ministry to other believers in
- [12 Examples of Harshness in Husbands (Lou Priolo)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/11/29/12-ways-to-be-a-harsh-husband/) - The past few months, the Holy Spirit has been convicting my heart in the area of what it means to love my wife and and live with her in an understanding way (Eph 5:25; 1 Pet 3:7). As a result, I have been reviewing some of the “husband books” that I’ve read in the past.
- [RESOURCES: Forgiveness & Bitterness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/09/26/resources-forgiveness/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. Bad Memories: Getting Past your Past (Robert Jones) Bitterness: The Root that Pollutes (Lou Priolo) Bitterness: When You Can’t Move On (Paul Tautges) Choosing Forgiveness (Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth) Forgive! As the
- [Three Ways Bitterness May Steer Your Heart Away from the Lord](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/11/07/three-ways-bitterness-may-steer-your-heart-away-from-the-lord/) - Inevitably, we all face the painful realities of life in this broken world. It might be illness, mistreatment, unjust circumstances, financial strain, or some other painful trial. When these things happen, it’s only natural to bristle at the situation. It’s okay to be honest about the ways you are hurting and even the ways you
- [The Powerful Imagery of Kintsugi](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/11/01/the-powerful-imagery-of-kintsugi/) - For hundreds of years, Japanese artists have repaired valuable pottery by sealing the breaks with a lacquer mixed with powdered gold. The word for this tradition, kintsugi, comes from the Japanese kin (“gold”) and tsugi (“join”) and literally means “to join with gold.” Joni Eareckson Tada first introduced me to this art form in reference
- [Gospel-Shaped Parenting Conference in Green Bay, WI - November 17-18, 2023](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/10/17/gospel-shaped-parenting-conference-in-green-bay-wi-november-17-18-2023/) - Bethel Baptist Church will host a two-day Gospel-Shaped Parenting conference on November 17-18. The focus of my teaching will be on how to keep the gospel in focus while we train our children in humility, help them to see how awesome God is, and how true self-confidence comes from finding their dependency and identity in
- [The Nature of the Conscience According to the Puritans](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/07/12/the-nature-of-the-conscience-according-to-the-puritans/) - A Puritan Theology: Doctrine for Life is a volume that I continue to work through one chapter at a time. The chapter on the conscience is especially helpful, I think, as it explains the nature of the conscience as created by God, the corrupt state of the conscience due to man's sin, and the restoration
- [Six Kinds of Evil Consciences](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/07/13/6-kinds-of-evil-consciences/) - Continuing from yesterday's post, I'd like us to think for a few more moments about what the Puritans taught concerning the conscience. In this post, consider a summary of six kinds of evil consciences which, again, are drawn from A Puritan Theology by Joel Beeke and Mark Jones. The Trembling or Doubting Conscience: The Puritans included this
- [Ten Questions to Ask Yourself Before Confronting a Brother or Sister in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/10/11/10-questions-i-need-to-ask-before-confronting-a-brother-in-christ/) - Christian love requires that we must at times confront one another about sin patterns that hinder growth toward spiritual fruitfulness and maturity. However, before we embark on what I like to call "the ministry of confrontation" let's be ready to ask ourselves some questions. Have I asked God to search my own heart for hidden,
- [RESOURCES: Food for the Counselor's Soul](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/05/25/resources-food-for-the-counselors-soul/) - Recently, a pastor of counseling asked me for book recommendations to strengthen the souls of the counselors in his church. Here are some writings that have ministered to me and spurred on my personal growth. A Shelter in the Time of Storm (Paul Tripp) An Exile’s Guide to Walking with God (Brian Borgman) Christ Formed
- [Introducing LifeLine Minibooks for Teens](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/10/09/introducing-lifeline-minibooks-for-teens/) - The issues teens face in today’s world can be troubling and, consequently, hardly a week goes by that someone does not ask me for age-directed biblical resources. Therefore, I am super excited to introduce you to the LifeLine Mini-books for Teens. written by men and women with decades of experience in gospel ministry to teens.
- [RESOURCES: Counseling Children & Youth](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/01/25/resources-counseling-children-youth/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. Most of these resources and many more are available at Westminister Kids. MINI-BOOKS Angry Children (Michael Emlet) Children and Divorce (Amy Baker) Helping Children with Body Image (Jocelyn Wallace) Helping Children
- [REMADE Makes Its First Appearance at the G3 Conference](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/09/21/remade-makes-its-first-appearance-at-the-g3-conference/) - If you are attending the G3 Conference in Atlanta this week, be sure to stop by the P&R book tables and say hi to Dave Almack. He will show you many new biblically-rich resources, including REMADE: Embracing Your Complete Identity in Christ and Midnight Mercies: Walking with God through Depression in Motherhood. Praying for Christ
- [5 Encouraging Excerpts from Midnight Mercies](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/09/18/5-encouraging-excerpts-from-midnight-mercies/) - Earlier this year, it was a delight to preview a marvelous new book: Midnight Mercies. As a result, I wrote the following endorsement. Overflowing with hope and grace, this book is a treasure chest of helpful transparency and biblical wisdom for any woman who is walking through a dark valley. The following excerpts are taken
- [A Prayer for those Left Behind after Suicide](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/09/13/a-prayer-for-those-left-behind-after-suicide/) - Suicide is a tragic loss that brings tremendous pain into the lives of the family and friends who are left behind. It also can leave us unsure how best to minister to the survivors in our flock. However, we dispense grace and hope best, especially upon receiving the awful news, through our comforting presence and
- [Don’t Forget to Put on the Belt of Love](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/09/07/dont-forget-to-put-on-the-belt-of-love/) - My parents were attentive to how their six children dressed when we went out in public. They were not excessively picky or smothering, but they wanted us to appear shipshape. For example, when we were getting ready for school or church, Mom or Dad would typically say, “Don’t forget to put on a belt.” Why
- [Six De-Churching Trends](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/26/6-de-churching-trends/) - One of the least obvious---and yet most tragic---changes Christianity has experienced in the past fifty years is the diminishing of the centrality of the local church in the life of many Christians. The Lord’s Day, once considered a special day dedicated to the worship and service of God, is now treated like any other day
- [RESOURCES: Abortion (Post-Abortive Help)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/10/resources-post-abortion-ministry/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Healing after Abortion: God's Mercy Is for You (David Powlison) HELP! I Feel Ashamed (Sue Nicewander) BOOKS If I Could Speak: Letters from the Womb (Mark Jones) Living in His
- [Bitterness: When You Can't Move On](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/08/23/bitterness-when-you-cant-move-on/) - In 2005, I struggled with bitterness. It began shortly after we went under contract on a big farmhouse in the country. After spending five years renovating our first house, it had become obvious that we had outgrown it. Five daughters were sharing one bedroom, and it was time to look for something that would be
- [Are You a Troublesome Meddler?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/08/29/are-you-a-troublesome-meddler/) - Today, I was reading the book of 1 Peter to remind myself of the purposes of God in the suffering of true believers. As a result, the words of John MacArthur challenged me, especially as he commented on the need for us to evaluate our suffering according to biblical wisdom. The apostle Peter warns us
- [Freedom from the Performance Treadmill](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/03/19/freedom-from-the-performance-treadmill-2/) - In 1994, I was given Transforming Grace by Jerry Bridges. Immediately, I read the first few chapters and set it aside for no memorable reason (Providence had another plan to use it later). There it sat until 2006 when I sensed a particular working of the Spirit in my life bringing me to a deeper
- [The Lordship Attributes](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/04/05/the-lordship-attributes/) - Last month, I purchased a copy of John Frame’s new Systematic Theology, and am thoroughly enjoying it. Though I’ve only read the first two chapters so far, it is clear to me it is going to become a personal favorite. If you’re hungry for another systematic, then check out Frame’s. It’s very readable. Chapter 2
- [Some Favorite Quotes from "The Whole Christ"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/05/09/some-favorite-quotes-from-the-whole-christ/) - While at the Shepherds' Conference in Los Angeles, in March, I purchased a copy of Sinclair Ferguson's The Whole Christ: Legalism, Antinomianism, & Gospel Assurance. I devoured it in a couple days, finishing it before our plane landed back in Cleveland. It's been a long time since I have read a book that has impacted
- [In Christ There is Satisfaction and Peace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/05/25/in-christ-there-is-satisfaction-and-peace/) - At our weekly staff meeting at church, we sometimes read from Valley of Vision. This morning, we prayed together the following request for the Lord to make us more and more content with all we have in Christ, which is far greater than any of our earthly desires. If I should suffer need, and go
- [Our Greatest Contribution to the Good of Our Nation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/06/03/our-greatest-contribution-to-the-good-of-our-nation/) - Evangelical Christians continue to be obsessed with political activism as the answer to the problems of our nation. "If we can only get the right people into the right positions who can then make the right laws we can turn our nation back to God," many argue. As optimistic as this may be, it does
- [In the Hand of Jesus](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/06/16/in-the-hand-of-jesus/) - Alec Motyer ministered to me this morning with these timely words from Isaiah By the Day. When it appears that the world we live in is out of control, remember the Lord has all things in his almighty hand. “To say the world we live in ‘doesn’t add up’ is a pretty accurate description. Hardly a
- [Let Us Not Camouflage God's Wrath](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/06/30/let-us-not-camouflage-gods-wrath/) - The longer I walk with the Lord and serve Him as an undershepherd of Christ the more my spirit is troubled by the increasing tendency among evangelicals to soft-sell God. We live in a church culture committed to sparing the feelings of others. Additionally, my concern is for a key doctrine of God which must
- [Four Means of Restoring the Human Conscience](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/07/14/4-means-of-restoring-the-human-conscience/) - Today is the third, and final, post in a series of reflections on the conscience stimulated by a chapter in A Puritan Theology: Doctrine for Life. First, we thought about the nature of the conscience as first created by God. Second, we looked at the corruption of the conscience, specifically taking note of six kinds
- [The Effects of Hostility and Betrayal upon the Mind and Body](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/08/23/the-effects-of-hostility-and-betrayal-upon-the-mind-and-body/) - Last week, I spent several days in Psalms 3-7 as part of my study through Alec Motyer’s devotional translation of the Hebrew songbook we know as the book of Psalms. Whether or not all agree that Psalms 3-7 belong to the time of Absalom’s betrayal of King David and attempt at a hostile takeover, Motyer contends,
- [Why the Bible Compares False Doctrine to Gangrene](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/01/why-the-bible-compares-false-doctrine-to-gangrene/) - False doctrine has the power to undermine faith and damage believers if we are not discerning and, consequently, allow man-centered, Christianized self-help theory to permeate our churches and thus redirect the eyes of believers off of Christ, and onto self. That which common man may consider good psychology may in fact be nothing more than
- [The Christ-Centered Employer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/24/the-christ-centered-employer/) - In yesterday’s post, we considered what it means to be a Christ-centered employee. Today, let’s continue on the theme of work by focusing on the Scriptural instructions to employers: Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there
- [The Holiness of God and Our Happiness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/05/23/the-holiness-of-god-and-our-happiness/) - The leaders of our men’s ministry selected the attributes of God as our theme for this past year, drawing somewhat from A. W. Tozer’s The Knowledge of the Holy and The Attributes of God . Therefore, at our last monthly breakfast of the season it was my turn to teach, and they gave me the
- [Jesus Is Not Ashamed of You](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/05/31/jesus-is-not-ashamed-of-you/) - Hebrews 2:11 contains one of the most surprising statements in the New Testament. It says Jesus is not ashamed to call us His siblings. Why does the Bible make this statement, and how can it possibly be true? Before we answer those questions, we need a basic understanding of shame. Webster’s Dictionary defines shame as
- [The Blessings of Seeking Wisdom](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/07/21/the-blessings-of-seeking-wisdom/) - Over years of reading through Proverbs, it’s impossible to estimate how many times this biblical book of wisdom has amazed and rebuked me. It is both simple and profound, filled with warning and promise. For these reasons, and many more, I never grow tired of it and am usually fed a nugget of truth when
- [Who is the Factious Man of Titus 3:10?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/16/who-is-the-factious-man-of-titus-310/) - Reject a factious man after a first and second warning, knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned (Titus 3:10-11). If believers, specifically church leaders (as was Titus, the original recipient), are to obey this Scripture we must understand what is meant by the word “factious.” Due to the King James
- [RERUN - The Emotional Jesus](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/06/18/rerun-the-emotional-jesus/) - Benjamin B. Warfield (1851–1921) was professor of theology at Princeton Seminary from 1887 to 1921. Some consider him to be the last of the great Princeton theologians before the split in 1929 that formed Westminster Seminary and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. His essay, The Emotional Life of Our Lord, was first published in 1912. Beginning today we will spend most of this week
- ["I Learned to Accept God's Plan for My Life"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/08/07/i-learned-to-accept-gods-plan-for-my-life/) - In recent weeks, I've been spending time thinking more deeply about the beauty, simplicity, and richness of Psalm 23. A Sheep Remembers by David Calhoun has been my guide. The following paragraph, from the chapter entitled “What I Learned in the Valley”, spoke to my heart, as he shares how the Spirit used cancer to
- [Jesus Sought Me and Found Me](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/07/31/jesus-sought-me-and-found-me/) - I was a wandering sheep,I did not love the fold;I did not love my Shepherd's voice,I could not be controlled. I was a wayward child,I did not love my home;I did not love my Father's voice,I loved afar to roam.The Shepherd sought his sheep,The Father sought his child;They followed me oer vale and hill,O'er deserts
- [We Will Feast in the House of Zion](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/07/22/we-will-feast-in-the-house-of-zion/) - One of the songs that sustains me and breathes Christ-centered hope into my heart is We Will Feast in the House of Zion by Sandra McCracken. I hope it fills your soul with praise today.
- [21 Ways God Is Sovereign Over the Environment](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/07/21/21-ways-god-is-sovereign-over-the-environment/) - It’s amazing how much time and energy is spent thinking and talking about environmental issues today. Sadly, most of it is done without any reference to God, who controls every aspect of it. Whether rain or snow, cold or heat, wind or stagnant air, the Lord is the one who continues to uphold it by
- [Your Child's Greatest Need](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/12/29/your-childs-greatest-need/) - Your child’s greatest need is the one you are powerless to meet. The sooner you come to grips with this reality the better. Sometimes parents think of salvation from sin as God throwing a life preserver to people who are drowning, but that is inadequate. Instead, we should picture ourselves and our children as already
- [Four Gospel Truths You Must Believe and Teach to Your Kids](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/12/29/4-gospel-truths-you-must-believe-and-teach-to-your-kids/) - When thinking and speaking of the good news, always keep the following four truths in mind: God is holy and righteous; we are sinful and rebellious; Jesus is the answer; but we must respond. God is holy and righteous. Understanding the gospel begins with an understanding of God’s holy character and righteous demands. If we
- [Attitudinal Forgiveness and Transacted Forgiveness (David Powlison)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/06/21/attitudinal-forgiveness-and-transacted-forgiveness-david-powlison/) - *Since last fall, I've been enjoying the daily devotional composed of selections from the teaching and writing ministry of David Powlison. Here is a today's reading. Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns
- [A Way to Pray for Your Church's Gospel Outreach](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/06/19/a-way-to-pray-for-your-churchs-gospel-outreach/) - Over a decade ago, I picked up a copy of Matthew Henry’s book, A Way to Pray, which has been helping me to learn the discipline of praying biblical language back to God. A Way to Pray is not the sort of book you quickly read from cover to cover. Instead (at least for me),
- [Resolving Conflict Conference in Fairview Heights, Illinois](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/06/14/resolving-conflict-conference-in-fairview-heights-illinois/) - Often Christians try to avoid conflict-but many of the Bible's interpersonal exhortations make conflict a necessity. What are the biblical principles of conflict resolution? What do we need before, during, and after conflict? In this conference, we will also share practical steps and advice, including specific talking points to help resolve conflict. Resolving Conflict God's
- [When You Are Anxious About Your Inadequacy](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/06/09/when-you-are-anxious-about-your-inadequacy/) - Anxiety is common to all people, but it’s an occupational hazard for those of us in vocational ministry. In a previous blog post, I addressed some ways we may define anxiety using biblical terms. In this article, I aim to help you combat the anxiety you may face regarding your inadequacies and the times those you
- [Answering Questions About Psychiatric Medication](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/06/02/answering-questions-about-psychiatric-medication/) - Questions abound about the helpfulness of medication for mood-related disorders. Therefore, I was encouraged by this episode of the Messy Podcast in which Scott Mehl interviews Dr. Charles Hodges, MD, the editor of the newly revised The Christian Counselor's Medical Desk Reference. POPULAR FROM THE PAST: A Brief Word about Anxiety Medication
- [New Teen Devotional on Anxiety](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/05/31/new-teen-devotional-on-anxiety/) - Yesterday, P&R Publishing announced the first release in a new series of 31-day devotionals for teens: Anxiety: Finding the Better Story. In the 31-Day Devotionals for Teenagers series, adults who care about young people look at what the Bible has to say about the everyday issues you face. Through personal stories and relevant examples, they
- [Is Low Self-Esteem Our Problem?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/05/23/is-low-self-esteem-our-problem/) - Up until the twentieth century, traditional cultures (and this is still true of most cultures in the world) always believed that too high a view of yourself was the root cause of all the evil in the world. What is the reason for most of the crime and violence in the world? Why are people
- [20 Ways Satan May Seek to Destroy You](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/13/20-ways-satan-may-seek-to-destroy-you/) - He is the serpent, the Great Dragon, Beelzebul, the ruler of this world, the prince of the power of the air, the evil one, and the adversary. He is Satan. And---if you are a follower of Jesus Christ---he hates your guts with a passion. Like a roaring lion he is prowling about seeking to destroy
- [How Satan Uses Our Desires](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/01/23/how-satan-uses-our-desires/) - This week, I’ve been reading Good News About Satan by Bob Bevington, a marvelous little book on spiritual warfare that is really helpful and based solely on Scripture. In Chapter Two, “Recognize their Weapons,” the author elaborates on three major kinds of darts that Satan and his demons “deploy against our souls: deception, temptation, and
- [Recognizing Satan's Crafty Scheme](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/02/27/recognizing-satans-crafty-scheme/) - Genesis 3 opens with the presence of an evil serpent in the garden. He is “more crafty than any other beast of the field.” Sometime between God’s pronouncement of all creation as good, and the temptation of man, was the fall of Lucifer from heaven. Ezekiel 28 describes his fall, which resulted from his desire
- [RESOURCES: Cutting & Self-Harm](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/09/06/resources-cutting-self-harm/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS/BOOKLETS Breaking the Addictive Cycle: Deadly Obsessions of Simple Pleasures? (David Powlison) Cutting: A Healing Response (Jeremy Lelek) HELP! I Feel Ashamed (Sue Nicewander) HELP! I Want to Change (Jim Newheiser)
- [The Holy Spirit’s Power to Convert Sinners](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/06/30/the-holy-spirits-power-to-convert-souls/) - Continuing our thoughts from yesterday’s post on the brightness of gospel light in an ever-darkening world, let’s think about the power of the Holy Spirit to take that same gospel and employ it to rescue sinners out of sinful lifestyles and make them right with God. In 1 Corinthians 6:11, the apostle reminded the believers
- ["Shelter in the Lord" Growth Assignment from Psalm 91](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/05/17/shelter-in-the-lord-growth-assignment-from-psalm-91/) - One of the most common questions I receive from blog readers has to do with counseling/discipleship "homework" or what some of us prefer to call growth assignments or growth projects. Since many of the people we minister to are suffering in some manner, we need to ground them in the sovereign security of God as
- [You Are No Longer Condemned](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/05/12/you-are-no-longer-condemned/) - There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. Rom. 8:1-2 Every Christian wrestles against sin. As a result, it is not uncommon for self-condemning thoughts to float around in
- [A Prayer for an Adult Child Who Is Wandering (Kathleen Nielson)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/05/04/a-prayer-for-an-adult-child-who-is-a-wanderer-kathleen-nielson/) - These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. John 20:31 You may personally know the pain of watching a child wander without faith in Christ. We ache for these children. And we pray. Even as
- [REMADE: My New Book Is Now Available for Pre-Order!](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/03/22/cover-reveal-for-my-forthcoming-book-remade/) - Yesterday, I shared the beautiful cover of my forthcoming book to be released in September. This is my second book with P&R Publishing, the ones who produced my bestselling 31-day devotional, Anxiety: Knowing God's Peace. REMADE: Embracing Your Complete Identity in Christ is filled with truths that have been marinating my soul for years. I'm
- [3 Podcast Episodes to Listen to this Week](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/12/10/3-podcast-episodes-to-listen-to-this-week/) - BCC 15:14 Podcast with Dr. Bob Somerville, author of If I'm a Christian, Why Am I Depressed? Depression is one of the "forbidden admissions" among many Bible believing Christians. Many suffer in silence for fear of rejection or, worse yet, personal attack. In the past, I have experienced both destructive responses. Therefore, I commend this
- [The Ultimate Authority for the One-Another Ministry We Call “Counseling”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/04/18/the-ultimate-authority-for-the-one-another-ministry-we-call-counseling/) - Scripture alone provides power and authority for counseling and soul care since it is the Word of the living God who created and redeems us. There is nothing we may experience which God does not directly or indirectly address in His Word. The Bible truly is sufficient to minister to the soul as we deal
- [Keeping Your Daily Devotions Fresh](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/04/14/keeping-your-daily-devotions-fresh/) - Ministry can be exhausting. We can’t check off “meet spiritual needs of the church” from our to-do list! Instead, the church’s needs pull us in many directions simultaneously, and the ongoing pressure can leave us feeling depleted, running on fumes. How can we feed our souls? How can we keep our hearts full of fresh,
- [Today, You Will Be With Me In Paradise](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/04/07/today-you-will-be-with-me-in-paradise/) - Three men hung on crosses. Their flesh pierced by nails. Two of them were guilty, one of them was not. One of the guilty ones hurled verbal abuse at the innocent one—mocking His claims to deity—visibly hardened, blinded to his own sinfulness and need for the Savior. The other—convinced he was receiving his just reward—begged
- [Reviews of 'Brass Heavens'](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/03/12/reviews-of-brass-heavens/) - The Lord has been gracious to provide encouraging reviews of my book Brass Heavens: Reasons for Unanswered Prayer. Paul Miller says, at The Gospel Coalition, “Brass Heavens is solid meat and potatoes for the Christian. The book is a slow unpacking of one aspect of the fear of God: if you live a life of
- [Biblical Soul Care & Discipleship Conference in Kendallville, Indiana on May 6, 2023](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/04/05/biblical-soul-care-conference-in-kendallville-indiana-on-may-6-2023/) - Next month, I will have the privilege to teach at the Biblical Soul Care Conference hosted by Faith Christian Church in Kendallville, Indiana. Here is the church’s advertisement: Have you ever wondered how to navigate the struggles, suffering, or conflicts you face in life? Have you been looking for answers, but keep coming up empty? Would you like
- [How to Know You Have Eternal Life](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/03/30/beloved-of-god-a-series-in-first-john/) - These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears
- [You Are Called to Be a Doer of the Word](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/03/23/you-are-called-to-you-are-called-to-be-a-doer-of-the-word/) - Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. Matthew
- [A Theology of Personhood from Psalm 8](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/03/16/a-theology-of-personhood-from-psalm-8/) - A couple months ago, I was privileged to participate in the annual CoRE Conference hosted by Bob Jones University. The theme for this year's conference was Who Am I? : The Contemporary Assault on Personhood. Here's my main session on a theology of personhood, which is an exposition of Psalm 8. Psalm 8 is rich
- [The Epidemic of Loneliness (Lou Priolo)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/03/14/the-epidemic-of-loneliness-lou-priolo/) - Loneliness has become a worldwide epidemic. It can be excruciatingly painful. What’s more, it can be deadly. Research now indicates that persistent loneliness (loneliness that lasts for more than two weeks) may be deadlier than alcohol abuse, obesity, and cigarette smoking. Lonely individuals may be at greater risk of stroke, coronary artery disease, high blood
- [A.C.T.S. of Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/11/11/a-c-t-s-of-prayer/) - Sometimes we struggle with prayer because we don’t have a specific plan for our time alone with the Lord. Therefore, for many years, the ACTS strategy has been a helpful tool for believers. Perhaps you are already familiar with this simple plan, but maybe you are not. So, let me remind you of something you
- [Three Interlocking Forces](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/03/05/three-interlocking-forces/) - And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air... But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us
- [REDEEMING THE GIFT - A Sexuality Conference](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/11/04/redeeming-the-gift-a-sexuality-conference/) - There is perhaps no more pressing and critical issue in our culture and in our churches today than sexuality. God has designed us with a good and beautiful drive for marital intimacy, but ever since the fall it has been distorted -- especially in recent years. And these destructive cultural morals are creeping into families
- [La ansiedad: 31-Day Anxiety Devotional Now Available in Spanish](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/02/28/31-day-anxiety-devotional-now-available-in-spanish/) - Ya sea que experimentes una preocupación persistente o un pánico debilitante, la Palabra de Dios te ofrece esperanza y ayuda. En este devocional de 31 días, el pastor y consejero bíblico Paul Tautges profundiza con gentileza en el corazón del miedo y la incredulidad con lecturas diarias, preguntas de reflexión y aplicaciones prácticas para alimentar
- [Seven Characteristics of Fiery Trials](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/06/27/7-characteristics-of-fiery-trials/) - “I should have been as though I had not been, carried from womb to tomb” are the words of the suffering Job as he voiced his complaints to God (Job 10:19). Having lost every earthly belonging, and all ten of his children—and surrounded by “miserable comforters” (16:2)—he regretted ever being born. Hear Job’s lament: “My
- [Nine Characteristics of the Great Old Testament Revivals](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/02/17/nine-characteristics-of-the-great-old-testament-revivals/) - Recently, our congregation spent time in the Spirit-inspired prayer for revival known as Psalm 85. One of my study resources for this sermon was Revive Us Again: Biblical Principles for Revival Today by Walter Kaiser. In the Introduction to this volume, Kaiser points out nine characteristics of the revivals we find recorded in the Old
- [Downplaying the DSM - Psychiatry's 'Bible' (Jonathan Holmes)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/05/22/downplaying-the-dsm/) - [Today’s post is written by Jonathan Holmes, Counseling Pastor at Parkside Church in Cleveland, Ohio. He is also a Council Board member of the Biblical Counseling Coalition. I am grateful for Jonathan’s willingness to provide this important information for our consideration and personal growth.] A recent blog post, Downplaying the DSM, informs us that the
- [You Will Never Be Independent](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/02/20/you-will-never-be-independent/) - Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst." - John 6:35 All good gifts, beginning with life itself, come from God. You will never be independent. The Lord sustains our lives physically. And every word from the mouth
- [Lying in a Biblical Worldview](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/02/14/lying-and-a-biblical-worldview/) - Several weeks ago, I had the privilege to be on The Plumb Line podcast to talk with Jay Rudolph about what the Bible teaches about dishonesty. We discussed the myriad ways dishonesty shows up in our lives, and how the gospel of Christ converts and transforms us into truth tellers. Listen here.
- [Marriage & Family Conference in Cleveland, Ohio](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/09/08/1-day-marriage-family-conference-in-cleveland-ohio/) - “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.” Now, of course, we know that’s not true. The Bible warns us that our words have power. They can either destroy or nourish. There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing (Proverbs
- [How Satan Succeeded in Tempting Eve](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/01/25/how-satan-succeeded-in-tempting-eve/) - It is obvious that sin began in the heart of Eve already before she actually ate the forbidden fruit. One may note the following stages: The first thing that happened was that Satan, through the serpent, aroused doubt in Eve's mind when he said, "Did God really say, You must not eat from any tree
- [It’s Not My Life, It’s His](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/01/24/its-not-your-life-its-his/) - John 15 is one of the most important passages in the New Testament about the believer’s union with Christ. This union, which is ours by faith, is the basis of our right standing before God the Father and our shared inheritance of every spiritual blessing and promise of God. But our union with Christ is
- [Counseling the Heart of a Hoarder (Todd Sorrell)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/01/23/counseling-the-heart-of-a-hoarder-todd-sorrell/) - Have you seen the television show called Hoarders? If so, you’ve seen the sad, everyday existence of real people held captive by decades of accumulation, most often in the form of piles of trash and clothes. Some even live with dead animals and waste. The house seems to be falling apart in a lot of
- [We Have Good Reasons to Be Anxious](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/01/21/we-have-good-reasons-to-be-anxious/) - When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your comfort delights my soul. Psalm 94:19 NASB Because there’s trouble in this world, we have good reasons to be anxious. In the midst of trouble our hearts forget God, and we get attached to other masters to all kinds of desires, needs, and beliefs. We get anxious
- [Six Ways Pre-Born Babies Glorify God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/01/19/six-ways-pre-born-babies-glorify-god/) - This month, Focus on the Family asked me to write an article on the sanctity of human life. In it, I share the personal story of the brief life of Isabelle, our sixth grandchild. I also open up Psalm 139 to behold the glory of God in the womb. Consider taking a few minutes to
- [How Does Temptation Work?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/01/16/how-does-temptation-work/) - Fishing on Cowboy Lake with my grandpa is a cherished boyhood memory. He intuitively knew where the crappy, bluegill, and lake perch were hiding at any given time. As we neared one of those areas, Grandpa would turn off his outboard motor and let the boat float to the ideal spot. Then he would tell
- [Beware of the Leaven of Legalism](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/06/beware-of-the-leaven-of-legalism/) - It sometimes comes as a surprise to Christians when they realize that Jesus did not get along with everyone, and that everyone did not get along with Jesus. The religious leaders were often at enmity against Him. Chiefly this is because they were blinded by their own sense of self-righteousness, which resulted in them failing
- [Eleven Quotes from “I Have a Psychiatric Diagnosis” by Ed Welch](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/01/09/eleven-quotes-from-i-have-a-psychiatric-diagnosis-by-ed-welch/) - One of the books I read in 2022 is a new one from Ed Welch, entitled, "I Have a Psychiatric Disorder: What Does the Bible Say?" I found this helpful to my personal growth as a pastor and counselor. I encourage you to read it as well. Here are some sentences that I highlighted while
- [Shock and Tears](https://counselingoneanother.com/2023/01/06/shock-and-tears/) - “Grandpa died,” my mom said when her phone call from Grandma ended. I was a sophomore in high school. After retiring from his career as an assembler of woody station wagons at the Ford Motor Company, my maternal grandfather spent every morning working in his garden. One day in May, after returning to the house
- [A Dozen Reasons God Hates Lying & Liars](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/06/27/a-dozen-reasons-god-hates-lying-liars/) - Deception, in one form or another, is a regular part of many people’s lives in our world today. However, much to the church’s shame, many Christians continue to give in to the temptation to lie their way through life as well. What does God think of this? Proverbs 6:19 includes on the list of things
- [A Ten Commandments Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/17/a-ten-commandments-prayer/) - Lord, please counsel us by revealing the subtle deceptions of our heart. We pray: . . . that we will have no other gods before You. That we will not dishonor Your uniqueness. That we will not put anything or anyone in Your place, nor fall prey to the schemes of the devil by replacing
- [Twelve Books that Helped Me in 2022](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/12/31/ten-helpful-books-from-2022/) - This year was an encouraging year as far as the number of books I was able to finish reading---some continued from previous years, while others I started and finished in 2022. So, this morning, I perused my Goodreads account and selected a dozen which I found helpful to my growth as a person. The first
- [Comfort from Psalm 18](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/11/14/comfort-from-psalm-18/) - As the King of Israel, David had many enemies (as all world leaders do). But chief among them was Saul, the first king of Israel who resented David because he was the divinely chosen one and it was clear God was with him. Every time David gained a victory, Saul’s insecurity deepened and the bitter
- [Stay Oriented to Where You're Heading (David Powlison)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/12/28/stay-oriented-to-where-youre-heading-david-powlison/) - Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. -1 John 3:2-3 What is our direction?
- [No Body--No Salvation (Michael Barrett)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/12/17/no-body-no-salvation-michael-barrett/) - When Christ came into the world, he said, "Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body have you prepared for me." (Hebrews 10:5) Essential to Christ's redeeming work for His people is the union of the divine and human natures. As the deity of Christ is full, absolute, and real deity, so His
- [Let Immanuel Deliver Comfort to Hurting Hearts this Christmas](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/12/16/let-immanuel-deliver-comfort-to-hurting-hearts-this-christmas/) - Every December, while growing up in snowy Wisconsin, Andy Williams helped our family decorate the Christmas tree. We strung the lights and garland with dad, and helped mom carefully hang the ornaments, all the while Andy hummed through the stereo, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” Indeed, Christmas is wonderful! However, for some in
- [A Remedy for Bible Ignorance](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/12/15/a-remedy-for-bible-ignorance/) - Understanding how all the varied parts of Scripture tie together in the promise of redemption through Jesus Christ is an essential remedy to Bible ignorance. In his book, God’s Big Picture, Vaughan Roberts tells the following story. A police inspector went to visit a primary school, where he was asked to take a Scripture class.
- [RESOURCES: Adoption](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/11/17/resources-adoption/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS/BOOKLETS A Hope Deferred: Adoption and the Fatherhood of God (Stephen Yuille) After They Are Yours: The Grace and Gift of Adoption (Brian Hedges) Helping Your Adopted Child (Paul Tripp) Quick
- [Five Truths You Must Consider When You Are Angry (Jim Newheiser)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/12/09/five-truths-you-must-consider-when-you-are-angry-jim-newheiser/) - The key to overcoming anger is what you say to your own heart (Proverbs 4:23), especially in seasons when your anger might be provoked. Instead of merely counting to ten, or to a thousand, an angry person needs to stop and fill his mind with biblical truth so that he can overcome anger in his
- [RESOURCES: Single Parenting](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/06/28/resources-single-parenting/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. MINI-BOOKS Children and Divorce (Amy Baker) HELP! I'm a Single Mom (Carol Trahan) HELP! My Child Is Being Bullied (Tim Keeter) Mom Guilt: Escaping its Strong Hold (Lauren Whitman) Single Parents
- [A Holy Anointing](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/11/30/a-holy-anointing/) - This morning, in our weekly staff meeting, I read the following entry from Charles Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening. It was delivered to my inbox by Truth for Life. It is a good reminder of how we need to remember that none of our ministry will have an impact for eternity without the Holy Spirit's empowerment.
- [Satan’s Involvement in Temptation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/07/30/how-satans-involvement-in-temptation-works/) - In a recent sermon in our series in the Gospel of Mark, we took time to redirect to the Gospel of Luke, where we find a fuller account of Satan’s temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. In Luke 4:1-13, we see five important truths about Satan’s involvement in temptation. Satan attacks when we are most
- [Envy Kills Thankfulness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/11/22/envy-kills-thankfulness/) - “Instead of joy and thanksgiving, envy brings distress over someone else’s blessings in life…. When we want for ourselves what the Lord has chosen to give to someone else, our agitation declares, ‘God, You messed up.’” So writes Mark Jones in his book, Knowing Sin. Envy kills gratitude and contentment because it shifts the focus
- [CoRE Conference 2023: Greenville, SC](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/11/22/core-conference-2023-greenville-sc/) - "Who Am I? - The Contemporary Assault on Personhood" is the theme for BJU Seminary's annual CoRE Conference, January 30-February 1, 2023. “In the beginning, God created … .” And He created all things perfectly — including man and woman, giving them value, dignity, and the purpose of glorifying Him. Then sin entered the world
- [Thankful Pastors Produce Thankful Christians](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/11/10/thankful-pastors-produce-thankful-christians/) - Thanksgiving is more than a holiday. It’s a mindset, a heart attitude, and an essential spiritual discipline for every Christian. It feeds our spiritual growth and leads to a deeper experience of God’s peace. But how can we weave thankfulness into the fabric of pastoral ministry? How can we as pastors help our flock to
- [Finding Comfort and Refuge in the King of Kings](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/06/04/finding-comfort-and-refuge-in-the-king-of-kings/) - The God of the Bible—our God—is absolutely sovereign over the nations of the world. There is no nation, government, political party, or ruler that can escape His scrutinizing oversight. He raises and lowers kings. And yet, somehow, in the mystery of His unfathomable ways, while reigning over all He at the same time holds governmental
- [Counsel Yourself from Psalm 16](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/04/12/counsel-yourself-from-psalm-16/) - Over twenty years ago, I was introduced to Sons of Korah, a musical group from Australia. Since then I've listened to their musical renditions of selected Psalms hundreds of times. Their music has helped me to learn the discipline of counseling myself with Scripture. Take some time to read Psalm 16 and then listen to
- [God Loves U-Turns](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/08/29/god-loves-u-turns/) - Imagine you are a long road trip to visit your grandmother for Thanksgiving Day. The low-fuel light turns red on your dashboard indicating you have about 30 miles worth of gas left in the tank, and the next exit is not for another 80 miles. At that moment in time, the most frustrating road sign
- [Things for Christian Men to Think About (Tim Challies)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/11/01/things-for-christian-men-to-think-about-tim-challies/) - *Tim Challies graciously gave me permission to share the following article with you, which I think is so well said and helpful to all Christian men, young and hold. Please read it and share with others. ❖ Pause for a few moments to consider the fact that God is a Father and you are his
- [3 Ways Suffering Helps to Make Us like Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/08/02/3-ways-suffering-helps-to-make-us-like-christ/) - The past two Lord’s Days, our congregation has been considering what the apostle had in mind when he declared his heart’s longing, “that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death” (Phil. 3:10). What does the apostle mean by “know”? The word
- [Five Soul-Strengthening Truths Affirmed and Modeled in “Seasons of Sorrow”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/25/five-soul-strengthening-truths-affirmed-and-modeled-in-seasons-of-sorrow/) - As I said last week, it’s difficult to articulate the impact of Tim Challies’ book Seasons of Sorrow on my heart and mind. Therefore, I’ve decided to post several articles. First, today, I begin by drawing your attention to five theological truths that are both affirmed by Tim’s writing and modeled in his response to
- [Infertility and Miscarriage: Helping Others Trust God in Every Season (Jeremy Pray)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/24/infertility-and-miscarriage-helping-others-trust-god-in-every-season-jeremy-pray/) - Nobody wants their faith tested through infertility and miscarriage, yet God, in His infinite wisdom, has ordained that some do. That certainly was the case for my wife and me. The hurt is deep, and the details involve very personal matters. Therefore, how do we offer hope and help to those who struggle in this
- [The Highest of Truths for Our Deepest Sorrows (Tim Challies)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/20/the-highest-of-truths-for-our-deepest-sorrows/) - Tuesday evening, I finished reading Seasons of Sorrow: The Pain of Loss and the Comfort of God by Tim Challies. Soon, I will write an article about some key applications of biblical truth that I learned through this one-of-a-kind book, but I'm not ready yet. I'm still processing the book's impact on me. For now,
- [5 Truths from Romans that Help Us to Abound in Hope](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/12/5-truths-from-romans-that-help-us-to-abound-in-hope/) - Earlier this week, my heart was enriched by the teaching of Stephen Yuille at the ACBC conference in Memphis. Dr. Yuille observes that there seems to be an increased level of despair among God's people, which led him to open the book of Romans to us. He defines hope this way: Hope is the life-changing
- [Clarifying Three Aspects of Salvation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/12/13/clarifying-3-aspects-of-salvation/) - Throughout church history there has been a blurring of lines between three essential aspects or phases of salvation, which results in confusion concerning how we actually become holy in our daily experience of the Christian life. Below is a simple chart that I use to teach our congregation, which I also use in my counseling
- [Hope and Help for Anxiety in Ministry](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/13/hope-and-help-for-anxiety-in-ministry/) - Anxiety is common to all people, but it’s an occupational hazard for those of us in vocational ministry. The reason is that much of the anxiety we experience cannot be separated from the cares of our life multiplied exponentially by the cares of the people we serve. Anxiety is an emotion… we know that, but
- [Moving On From Bitterness (Application Projects)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/13/moving-on-from-bitterness-application-projects/) - Last week, I wrote a blog for our church that began with these words: "I’ve been taken aback by how many of you have shared with me how the Holy Spirit is using the recent two-part sermon series Uprooting Bitterness, to help you." I can say the same about you, my readers. (If you have
- [8 Books that Helped Me in 2018](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/03/8-books-that-helped-me-in-2018/) - My reading goal for 2018 was 34 books, but I did not make it. But from the 27 that I was able to finish, here are eight that impacted me. They are listed in no particular order. Psalms By the Day: A New Devotional Translation (Alec Motyer) - I used this for my daily devotions,
- [17 Quotes on Worship](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/09/19/17-quotes-on-worship/) - The next two Sundays, I'm preaching on the subject of worship as part of a larger series on the church. Yesterday, I was paging through a binder of quotes from past reading and was again blessed and challenged by words from others. As you prepare to worship the Lord with other believers, tomorrow, be sure
- [RESOURCES: Anger](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/12/15/resources-anger/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. BOOKS/MINI-BOOKS A Small Book about a Big Problem (Ed Welch) Anger: Calming Your Heart (31-day devotional (Robert Jones) Anger: Escaping the Maze (David Powlison) Anger Management [Puritan Pocketbook] (Richard Baxter) Anger
- [Why I Wrote "Discipling the Flock"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/29/why-i-wrote-discipling-the-flock/) - Having been in local church ministry for close to 30 years, I’m more and more convinced of how much God’s people need comprehensive soul care, which is provided through both public and personal ministry. So, related to that conviction, here are three reasons I was compelled to write Discipling the Flock: A Call to Faithful
- [Be Honest About Your Brokenness (Esther Liu)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/11/be-honest-about-your-brokenness-esther-liu/) - The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in
- [The Gospel in 5 Minutes](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/09/the-gospel-in-5-minutes/)
- [Suffering Is Our Teacher](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/03/suffering-is-our-teacher/) - Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in your commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray,but now I keep your word.Psalm 119:67 Mrs. Schmidt was my favorite childhood teacher. Not only did she get me interested in reading books, but I also thought she was cute. Yes, I had a crush on
- [FROM DEATH TO LIFE video (Part 6 of 6)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/08/keeping-the-gospel-simple-but-not-simplistic-part-6-of-6/) - You can also watch the whole series playlist on YouTube.
- [MAN MUST REPENT AND BELIEVE video (Part 5 of 6)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/07/keeping-the-gospel-simple-but-not-simplistic-part-5-of-6/) - You can also watch the whole series playlist on YouTube.
- [GOD IS HOLY AND LOVING video ("Keeping the Gospel Simple, But Not Simplistic" - Part 1 of 6)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/02/keeping-the-gospel-simple-but-not-simplistic-part-1-of-6/) - In the past two months, I've taken our congregation through a thorough explanation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ by using a visual known as the bridge illustration. This illustration is a simple tool for personal evangelism and discipleship. I hope your faith is strengthened as you bask in the abundant grace of God by
- [MAN IS SINFUL AND HELPLESS video (Part 2 of 6)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/04/keeping-the-gospel-simple-but-not-simplistic-part-2-of-6/) - In the past two months, I’ve taken our congregation through a thorough explanation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ by using a visual known as the bridge illustration. This illustration is a simple tool for personal evangelism and discipleship. I hope your faith is strengthened as you bask in the abundant grace of God by
- [JESUS IS LORD video (Part 3 of 6)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/05/keeping-the-gospel-simple-but-not-simplistic-part-3-of-6/) - You can also watch the whole series playlist on YouTube.
- [JESUS IS SAVIOR video (Part 4 of 6)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/06/keeping-the-gospel-simple-but-not-simplistic-part-4-of-6/) - You can also watch the whole series playlist on YouTube.
- [Uprooting Bitterness, Part 3 of 3](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/10/01/uprooting-bitterness-part-3-of-3/) - Two posts ago, we began thinking about what the Bible teaches about bitterness. Namely, that Scripture presents bitterness first as an experience and then as a response—first as something that happens to us, and then something that arises within us. Biblically speaking, the word bitter means to be angry, chafed, and discontent. We also learned
- [Keep Walking by Faith in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/04/04/keep-walking-by-faith-in-christ/) - The Christian life is about walking with God, with our Savior the Lord Jesus Christ. But how do we walk with Christ? How do we walk with One whom we cannot see? We walk by faith. In 2 Corinthians 5:7, the apostle teaches that as long as we remain in these earthly bodies we for
- [Seven Truths to Affirm from Genesis 1:1-2:4](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/02/12/7-truths-to-affirm-from-genesis-11-24/) - The Bible begins with a dramatic display of the glory of God. The historical account of creation is nothing short of pure majesty. God is clearly the center. Genesis 1 describes the set which God builds to show the drama of redemption. So, let’s look at the first words of God. As we walk through
- [ANXIETY: Knowing God's Peace now available in AUDIO](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/08/04/anxiety-knowing-gods-peace-now-available-in-audio/) - Yesterday, I was thrilled to learn that my 31-day devotional is now available as an audio book on all major platforms including Amazon and Apple. Special thanks to ministry partners at P&R Publishing and ChristianAudio for making this project a reality. May the Lord be pleased to use this resource to draw more people into
- [Suffering Is Plan A (Joni Eareckson Tada)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/09/08/suffering-is-plan-a-joni-eareckson-tada/) - In our society, we avoid suffering—running away from it if we can or numbing its effects if we can’t. Even Christ-followers struggle with this. At the onset of a life-transforming injury or the birth of a child with disabilities, our faith is shaken to the core. Instinctively, we want the comfortable and convenient way. Unless
- [Love Grows in the Soil of Forgiveness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/08/09/love-grows-in-the-soil-of-forgiveness/) - “You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” (Luke 7:47) Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from
- [Uprooting Bitterness, Part 1 of 3](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/09/23/uprooting-bitterness-part-1/) - About twenty years ago, I was a bitter Christian. As far as I can tell, it all began around the time we made an offer to purchase a big farmhouse in the country. We had just spent five years renovating our first house and realized we had outgrown it. Five daughters sharing one bedroom was
- [Uprooting Bitterness, Part 2 of 3](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/09/27/uprooting-bitterness-part-2/) - Life in this fallen, broken world can be very hard, even dangerous at times. Therefore, we all face various kinds of bitter tasting experiences. That's what we began thinking about in the last post. Today, I draw your attention to two more levels of biblical awareness that will help you to uproot bitterness in your
- [Life-Changing Sentences in "A Painful Past" by Lauren Whitman](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/09/21/my-favorite-life-changing-sentences-in-a-painful-past-by-lauren-whitman/) - A year ago, I first picked up A Painful Past because I'm always trying to grow as a minister of grace and truth to those whom the Lord calls me to serve. However, as is almost always the case, my own heart was ministered to in numerous ways that I did not expect. A Painful
- [Manliness for Every Husband (Ed Welch)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/09/20/manliness-for-every-husband-ed-welch/) - A recent article in the Journal of Biblical Counseling helped, convicted, and gently counseled me. In this post, I summarize it briefly, using Ed Welch's own words. But I also encourage you to consider purchasing the entire article here (only $1.99). I believe you will be helped immensely. If you are a JBC subscriber, like
- [Take Joy in the God of Your Salvation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/09/19/take-joy-in-the-god-of-your-salvation/) - Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God
- [Three Helpful Things to Do When Your Teenager Gets Defensive (Paul Tripp)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/09/12/three-helpful-things-to-do-when-your-teenager-gets-defensive-paul-tripp/) - Most teenagers don’t walk into the family room and say, “You know, Dad, I was just thinking how wise you are and what a good thing it is that God put you in my life so that I could gain wisdom too. I thought I’d come and talk with you for a while and soak
- [The Choice to Rejoice](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/24/the-choice-to-rejoice/) - In 1980, when I was a sophomore in high school, Johnny Lee topped the charts with his catchy song, “Lookin for Love in All the Wrong Places.” That is still true. Mankind is still looking for love in all the wrong places. But what is also true is that we are lookin for joy in
- [Avoid Taking Communion in an "Unworthy Manner"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/11/14/avoid-taking-communion-in-an-unworthy-manner/) - One of the soberest warnings in the New Testament concerns the manner in which we approach and participate in the Lord's Supper. Following the apostle's repetition of Jesus' command to regularly "do this in remembrance of Me" (1 Corinthians 11:23-26), he exhorts: 27 Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in
- [10 Aspects of Gospel-Centered Forgiveness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/01/16/10-aspects-of-gospel-centered-forgiveness/) - Matthew 6 records some of the most alarming words ever spoken by the Lord Jesus Christ. In the portion of His teaching which has become known as the Lord’s Prayer, He instructed the disciples to regularly pray for forgiveness. He then concluded His teaching with the warning: For if you forgive others their trespasses, your
- [Relief from Bitterness of Soul](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/11/relief-from-bitterness-of-soul/) - The Lord will save me, and we will play my music on stringed instruments all the days of our lives, at the house of the Lord. (Isaiah 38:20) Hezekiah, the king of Israel, was 39 years old when he heard the diagnosis, terminal illness. The prophet Isaiah delivered the news. “Set your house in order,”
- [The Valley of Betrayal (Dave Coats)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/01/30/the-valley-of-betrayal/) - [Today’s post was submitted by one of our occasional guest bloggers, Dave Coats. Dave is a pastor, certified biblical counselor (ACBC), college professor, and author of Building a Pure Life.] We all go through trials of various kinds. We may face trials that involve the physical body. Those trials may include medical personnel and their
- [Gospel Antibiotic for the Poison of Bitterness (Dave Coats)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/02/28/gospel-antibiotic-for-the-poison-of-bitterness/) - As we continue to walk through the story of David and Absalom, in my preaching at our church, we are learning that it is by focusing on David that we see Christ through him and the godly response to betrayal (read my previous post). By focusing on Absalom, on the other hand, we get a
- [15 Ways to Kill Bitterness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/11/14/15-ways-to-kill-bitterness/) - According to Hebrews 12:15, bitterness is a “root attitude” of the heart that grows where there is a shortage of grace. Roots grow downward, going deeper and getting more deeply embedded. The root of bitterness also causes other sins to grow upward and outward, “causing trouble” and “defiling many” other people. But how do we
- [God Is Patient (Megan Hill)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/08/24/god-is-patient-megan-hill/) - The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.”Ex. 34:6 “Thank you for your patience.” The reply from my out-of-office coworker landed in my inbox almost as soon as I had clicked send on my email to her.
- [Four Lessons from the Bronze Serpent](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/31/4-lessons-from-the-bronze-serpent/) - The book of Numbers contains the account of a strange event which took place during Israel’s time of wandering in the wilderness. It is most often referred to as Moses and the Bronze Serpent. Let’s take a few minutes to think about this unusual biblical story, see its significance to Israel, and then learn from
- [When Prayer Weeps](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/08/03/when-prayer-weeps/) - This morning, at our weekly staff meeting, I read today's devotional from The Quiet Place by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth. Today's reading was entitle "When Prayer Weeps," and ministered to all of us. So, I thought I'd pass it on. Nancy's reflection is based upon Luke 19:41. When he drew near and saw the city, he
- [Be Counseled by Thomas Chalmers (1780–1847)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/08/23/becounseled-by-thomas-chalmers-1780-1847/) - "The Expulsive Power of a New Affection" is the classic sermon of Thomas Chalmers, a Scottish mathematician, political economist, and leader of the Free Church of Scotland. Many months ago, I printed off this sermon and it’s been in my briefcase ever since. Yesterday, when I needed to get out of my office into the
- [Will You Pray for Me as I Finish My Next Book?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/07/25/will-you-pray-for-me-as-i-finish-my-next-book/) - Dear reader and friend, The fact that you are reading this post is a great encouragement. For me, writing is a necessity---a means to personal growth and soul survival in this fallen world. It's part of the way God has wired me, in order to help me to refine my thinking processes. Knowing this, I'm
- [The Unrepenting Repenter (Jim Elliff)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/07/20/the-unrepenting-repenter-jim-elliff/) - [The following article, The Unrepenting Repenter, is an outstanding tool for counseling and discipleship, as well as personal evaluation of our own hearts. It is written by Jim Elliff and published by Christian Communicators Worldwide.] The believer in Christ is a lifelong repenter. He begins with repentance and continues in repentance. (Rom. 8:12-13) David sinned
- [We Are Drawn to Jesus by the Father’s Loving Kindness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/07/14/we-are-drawn-to-jesus-by-the-fathers-loving-kindness/) - But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved usTitus 3:4 And Can it Be, that I Should Gain?[1]is one of my favorite hymns because it preserves the mystery and wonder of salvation—the marvel that God could love a rebel like me so much that he would take upon himself
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (July 8)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/07/08/nuggets-of-wisdom-july-8/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). What Does the Bible Say About Multi-Level Marketing (and Pyramid Schemes) - The Bible does not address multi-level marketing
- [Why You Can Trust the Bible](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/07/06/why-you-can-trust-the-bible/) - Yesterday, Tim Challies provided a link to this 10-minute video which I enjoyed. If you are a believer in Christ, then this will encourage you as well as give you a resource to share with others.
- [Our Church's Statement on the Sanctity of Human Life](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/06/28/our-churchs-statement-on-the-sanctity-of-human-life/) - For decades, the pastors and elders of Cornerstone Community Church in Mayfield Heights, Ohio have sought to faithfully teach the Scriptures. As a result, our church has been involved in upholding the sanctity of every human life, both in teaching and in practice through various ministries of education and compassion. This past February, the elders
- [Eight Practical Ways to Love Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/09/27/loving-christpractically/) - Here’s some solid counsel from J.C. Ryle (1816-1900) concerning eight practical ways our love for Christ should express itself. I’ve taken liberty to trim back the word count a bit. Read the full article, "Loving Christ...Practically" here. 1. If we love a person, we like to think about him. We do not need to be reminded
- [Addressing Common Types of Unwanted Thoughts (Esther Smith)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/06/21/addressing-common-types-of-unwanted-thoughts-esther-smith/) - How about you? Do you experience thoughts you don’t want? Like me, do you ruminate on beliefs about yourself, the world, or God that feel true even though you know they are not? Like many people I meet, do you feel tormented by depressed, anxious, or intrusive thinking? Like everyone, are you uncertain about what
- [We Are Reflectors of God's Glory](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/06/20/we-are-reflectors-of-gods-glory/) - …so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. (Eph. 1:12)So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Cor. 10:31) Summer is short in the Midwest. Therefore, as a boy, most of my summer days
- [We Are Adopted Into God's Family](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/06/08/we-are-adopted-into-gods-family/) - In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will (Eph. 1:4b-5)But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive
- [Five Ways the Return of Christ Motivates Our Obedience](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/06/01/five-ways-the-return-of-christ-motivates-our-obedience/) - “I confess my disappointment that so much teaching about the last days is focused on the order of events.” So writes John Frame in Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Christian Belief. Frame continues, In my view, when Scripture tells us about the return of Christ, it doesn't give us this information so that we can
- [Christ-Centered Biblical Counseling](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/04/15/christ-centered-biblical-counseling/) - This past Friday, I was so pleased to receive my long-awaited copy of Christ-Centered Biblical Counseling---the combined work of 40 friends from the Biblical Counseling Coalition. Christ-Centered Biblical Counseling is sure to become a standard text for those interested in understanding the theology and practice of biblical counseling. David Powlison writes in the Foreword: “This
- [You Were Sealed by the Spirit](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/05/20/you-were-sealed-by-the-spirit/) - In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.Ephesians 1:13-14 Almost two years ago, the Lord enabled us to
- [Don't Lose Sight of the Joys of Ministry](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/05/18/dont-lose-sight-of-the-joys-of-ministry/) - Recently, I was drawn in by a book that I picked up somewhere in the past couple years, When Shepherds Weep: Finding Tears of Joy for Wounded Pastors. I decided to read it for two reasons. First, I thought it would promote deeper growth in me as a pastor who has experienced ministry pain, but
- [You Are Redeemed by the Son](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/05/18/you-are-redeemed-by-the-son/) - In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us...Ephesians 1:7-8 Redemption is freedom from slavery by the payment of a ransom; it is the purchase of liberation resulting in new ownership. That is what Jesus accomplished for us. “In
- [The Mess of Anxiety: A Podcast Discussion with Scott Mehl](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/05/16/the-mess-of-anxiety-a-podcast-discussion-with-scott-mehl/) - Recently, it was an honor to be a guest on The Messy Podcast. Scott Mehl and I talk about the complexities and challenges of anxiety and how the truth of God helps us to experience His peace. Scott is the author of Loving Messy People: The Messy Art of Helping One Another Become More Like
- [Ten Reasons We Should Pray for the End of Legalized Abortion](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/05/05/ten-reasons-a-christian-should-protect-life-and-oppose-abortion/) - My wife has been pregnant eleven times. Ten of those pregnancies resulted in the births of precious sons and daughters, all of whom we cherish. Do we love babies? That’s pretty obvious. I’ve loved babies for as long as I can remember. The same is true of my wife. In fact, that’s one of the
- [You Were Chosen by the Father](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/05/16/you-were-chosen-by-the-father/) - …even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.Ephesians 1:4 Ephesians 1:3-14 is a single sentence in the original Greek and contains the scope of redemption from eternity past to eternity future. It is a view of salvation from the vantage point
- [3-Book Bundle of Small Devotionals on Anger, Anxiety, and Grief](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/10/3-book-bundle-of-small-devotionals-on-anger-anxiety-and-grief/) - Westminster Books is offering a 3-book small devotional bundle, which includes a copy of my newest on grief and loss, at a 40% discount. A Small Book About a Big Problem A Small Book about a Big Problem by biblical counselor and psychologist Edward T. Welch guides readers to look carefully at how their anger
- [Ten Quotes from "A Small Book About Why We Hide"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/02/21/ten-quotes-from-a-small-book-about-why-we-hide/) - If you've been a reader of this blog for a while then you know I have a difficult time writing book reviews, since a well-written one takes so much time for me. Instead, I find it personally beneficial and, I hope, encouraging to you, to follow up my finishing a book with a post including
- [17 Quotes from Ed Welch’s “A SMALL BOOK FOR THE ANXIOUS HEART”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/10/17-quotes-from-ed-welchs-a-small-book-for-the-anxious-heart/) - A new devotional from Ed Welch released this week. In the same format as his SMALL BOOK ABOUT A BIG PROBLEM (Anger), Ed gently applies biblical truth to our hearts and minds, in order to help us learn how faith in the Lord, and Christ-centered focus, empower us to not be controlled by fear. Here
- [7  Ways Grief Becomes Sinful](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/03/29/7-ways-grief-becomes-sinful/) - Slowly, I’ve been reading Facing Grief by the Puritan, John Flavel. Chapter 4, When Sorrow Becomes Sinful, was especially convicting and helpful, as I reflected back upon a time in which I allowed sorrow to overtake me and lead me to sin in other ways. In this chapter, Flavel explains how sorrow becomes sinful when
- [In Christ, We Have Direct Access to God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/05/04/in-christ-we-have-direct-access-to-god/) - …let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith…Hebrews 10:22 Is it inconsistent for the Bible to teach us that God “dwells in unapproachable light” (1 Tim. 6:16), while at the same time exhort us to draw near to him? If God dwells in the white-hot light of his holiness, how
- [How to Correctly Interpret and Apply Jeremiah 29:11](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/04/25/how-to-rightly-apply-jeremiah-2911/) - One of the most commonly quoted promises in the Bible is Jeremiah 29:11, which was given to Israel regarding their captivity in Babylon. But does this promise apply to us? Watch this encouraging and helpful video.
- [The Horror of the Cross](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/05/02/the-horror-of-the-cross/) - We live in a culture that does not understand the symbol of the cross. Today, the cross has become a mere religious symbol. We do not see its horror. D.A. Carson writes, [T]he cross has become for us such a domesticated symbol. Today many women and men dangle crosses from their ears. Our bishops hang
- [Darkest Night, Brightest Day](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/04/09/darkest-night-brighter-day/) - Darkest Night, Brightest Day is a beautiful new children's book/family devotional from Marty Machowski. The illustrations by Phil Schorr are gorgeous and the daily readings are at a good reading level, but not dumbed down (My 12-year-old son and I read the first half together in one sitting). Seven daily readings are for the week
- [Worry is "Practical Atheism"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/18/worry-is-practical-atheism/) - There is an important distinction we need to make between good worry and bad worry. There are matters that ought to concern us, things that deserve our immediate attention and action. Being carefree is not the same as being careless. Good Worry, Bad Worry The Greek word for “worry” in Matthew 6 is sometimes used
- [Buttermilk Biscuits and Romans 8:28](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/04/05/buttermilk-biscuits-and-romans-828/) - Yesterday morning, I picked up my copy of Jerry Bridges’ Trusting God, Even When Life Hurts and read the tenth chapter, "Experiencing God’s Love." As Bridges develops the biblical teaching that discipline (character training toward Christlikeness) is a mark of God’s love and commitment to His children, he writes, “[I]n God’s infinite wisdom and love,
- [Lust Is a Female Problem Too!](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/08/17/is-lust-gender-exclusive/) - Is lust and porn a male problem? The answer is a resounding NO. For all of human history lust has damaged the human soul and wreaked havoc on relationships, destroying too many marriages to count. Yet the church has largely ignored this problem. And when it has addressed it the focus has almost exclusively been
- [Shepherds Gone Astray](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/04/shepherds-gone-astray/) - The book of Jeremiah is essentially a long essay on apostasy. What is of particular interest is its evidence of the incredible power of leaders to influence people for good or for ill. The prophet begins with a pathetic description of the state of spiritual leadership in Judah: “The priests did not say, ‘Where is
- [Four Traits of a Faithful Mother](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/10/4-traits-of-a-faithful-mother/) - Clovis Chappel was one of the most effective preachers of the last century. He is especially known for his biographical sermons. In one sermon on Jochebed, the mother of Moses, he said, “When God wants to train a child for the achieving of the best and the highest in life, He sends him to school
- [On Name-Dropping and Being a Servant of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/03/18/on-name-dropping-and-being-a-servant-of-god/) - Name-dropping is a popular way to impress others—even among Christians. To casually mention our association or loose acquaintance with a prominent person may immediately enlarge our perceived worth or influence in the eyes of those whose respect we crave. But James, the half-brother of Jesus himself, doesn’t succumb to that temptation. Instead, he calls himself
- [Christ Is Lord Over All Creation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/03/11/christ-is-lord-of-creation/) - In Colossians 1:15, the apostle refers to Christ as “the firstborn of all creation.” The word “firstborn” is used in the common biblical sense of rank and sovereignty. In Near Eastern culture, the oldest son received the birthright, which entitled him to certain privileges, as well as the sovereign leadership of the family upon the
- [You Are Invited to the Grace & Truth Conference on Sexuality in Great Falls, Montana](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/03/10/grace-truth-conference-on-sexuality-in-great-falls-montana/) - It's an honor to be one of the speakers at this year's Grace & Truth Conference at Emmanuel Bible Church in Great Falls, Montana. Sexuality Redeemed: The Truth About Human Sexuality is the theme. The Grace and Truth Conference is an annual spring event where church leaders and congregations are challenged to live according to
- [Theological Primer for Counselors: Bibliology](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/03/07/attributes-of-god-bibliology/) - Today, we continue our series covering the ten basic categories of theology and relating them to our walk with the Lord and to our personal, one-another ministry that we call ‘counseling.’ Yesterday, we thought very briefly about the doctrine of God. Today, we turn to the doctrine of the Scriptures. Bibliology: The Doctrine of the
- [Bearing the Fruit of Love](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/26/bearing-the-fruit-of-love/) - Surely the apostle Paul’s description, or definition, of love in 1 Corinthians 13 is the most well-known of all. Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogantor rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful;it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but
- [Bearing the Fruit of Joy](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/03/bearing-the-fruit-of-joy/) - Joy is a settled state of mind and heart produced by the Holy Spirit, resulting in contentment and hope-filled confidence in God’s trustworthy character and good purposes. It's a settled state, not a passing feeling, of mind and heart; that is, it involves thoughts and affections. Joy is produced by the Spirit, not cranked up
- [Bearing the Fruit of Peace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/09/bearing-the-fruit-of-peace/) - God calls followers of Christ to live in peace. That is, since we are made to be at peace with God through the saving work of Jesus, we have a gospel obligation to be pursuers of peace. As we learned last Sunday, this peace is not a subjective feeling, but an objective reality (Romans 5:1-5).
- [Bearing the Fruit of Kindness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/17/bearing-the-fruit-of-kindness/) - As a fruit of the Spirit, and a part of what it means to be like Christ, kindness is also an attribute of God. God is kind to all of his creatures. This is what theologians call common grace; that is, it is common to all—even those who reject Christ.The words of Jesus in Matthew
- [Bearing the Fruit of Faithfulness (Part 2 of 2)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/27/bearing-the-fruit-of-faithfulness-part-2-of-2/) - Yesterday, we began thinking about the fruit of faithfulness. Before applying it too much to ourselves, as a fruit of the Spirit, we took note of God's faithfulness, as well as defined this character quality. Here's our definition: Defining Faithfulness Faithfulness is such a rich concept that it will be helpful to consider a 3-part
- [Bearing the Fruit of Faithfulness (Part 1 of 2)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/26/bearing-the-fruit-of-faithfulness-part-1-of-2/) - As we continue our series on the fruit of the Spirit, God wants us to think about faithfulness. He wants us to remember His faithfulness and be challenged to bear the fruit of faithfulness as we walk in the Spirit. Faithfulness Is an Attribute of God When we are tempted and tested, God is faithful
- [Bearing the Fruit of Gentleness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/06/01/bearing-the-fruit-of-gentleness/) - As a fruit of the Spirit is gentleness. Gentleness is an attribute of God (2 Sam. 22:36), a characteristic of Christ (Matt. 11:29; 2 Cor. 10:1, a mark of spiritual maturity (Gal. 6:1), a fruit of biblical wisdom, in contrast to worldly wisdom (James 3:17), and a necessity for church leaders (1 Tim. 6:11; 2
- [Bearing the Fruit of Self-Control](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/06/08/bearing-the-fruit-of-self-control/) - First Corinthians 9:24-27 is a fitting passage to consider when thinking about the fruit of the Spirit, which is self-control Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (March 5)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/03/08/nuggets-of-wisdom-march-5/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). Pain from the Church Heals in the Church - "This is the beauty of the body of Christ: we
- [NUGGETS - Three Podcast Episodes You Should Listen to this Week](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/02/01/nuggets-three-podcast-episodes-you-should-listen-to-this-week/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). The Real Cost of Social Media - Reagan Rose, over at Redeeming Productivity, interviews Chris Martin, author of the
- [Combating Our Anxiety in a Time of War](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/03/07/combating-our-anxiety-in-a-time-of-war/) - As we watch Russia’s war on Ukraine, it’s natural and common for our hearts to become anxious. Therefore, we need the Word of God to recenter our thoughts and emotions. Psalm 27, a military psalm, is an ideal place to turn for help. The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
- [You Are Justified By God and Before God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/02/17/you-are-justified-by-god-and-before-god/) - For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.2 Cor. 5:21 The greatest exchange the world has ever seen is this: Jesus traded our sin for his righteousness. This—and this alone—is the basis for our righteous standing before the holy
- [Bearing Fruit in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/17/bearing-fruit-in-christ/) - When God saves a sinner He begins a new work of transforming grace, which results in the production of good works for His glory. Ephesians 2:8-10 gives this full picture: For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result
- [Free In Christ: Galatians for Every Believer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/01/26/three-characteristics-of-gods-gospel/) - Identity theft is called by some, "The Crime of the New Millennium." An article by that title opens with these words, “It is estimated that identity theft has become the fastest-growing financial crime in America and perhaps the fastest-growing crime of any kind in our society.” In 2012, Time magazine said the Federal Trade Commission
- [The Challenge to Younger Men in the Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/21/the-challenge-to-younger-men-in-the-church/) - As we continue to think about the admonition to Christian men, the word “Likewise” (Titus 2:3, 6) connects to the godly example we thought about in the previous post. Please note: The Bible calls younger Christian men to the same high expectation of character as the older men. However, our culture does not do this.
- [The Call to Older Men in the Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/20/the-call-to-older-men-in-the-church/) - Our church’s mission is to make disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, which is not merely to lead people to “make a decision for Christ,” but to bring people to Jesus and help one another grow in Christ, toward maturity and obedience—together as a family. This requires ongoing instruction in sound doctrine and living the
- [God Never Promised to Answer the "Why" of Our Suffering](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/18/god-has-not-promised-to-answer-the-why-of-our-suffering/) - Yesterday, the Holy Spirit ministered deeply to my heart through what may be the best sermon I've heard on the book of Job. An area pastor graciously responded to my request to preach to our congregation on the subject of suffering. After giving an overview of the book of Job, he drew out seven lessons,
- [Affliction Does Not Hinder the Gospel](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/08/09/affliction-does-not-hinder-the-gospel/) - I’ve been thinking about last week’s post on three ways suffering makes us like Christ and remembered an illustration that I told in an earlier book. As servants of Christ suffer for His name, and for the sake of His righteousness, the message of the cross continues to be proclaimed. This was also true in
- [Repenting Shepherds](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/03/07/repenting-shepherds/) - Jesus models faithful leadership when, as the Good Shepherd, He calls believers by name and safely leads us to pasture (John 10:3–11). Applying this to the local church, it is right to conclude that a good pastor leads his flock to God. He is not there simply to marry and bury, but he works in
- [3 Characteristics of Faithful Pastors – Pt. 2 of 2](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/10/18/3-characteristics-of-faithful-pastors-pt-2-of-2/) - Yesterday's post was based on 1 Peter 5:1-5 and explained two of three duties of church shepherds. Today, we will look at the third duty as well as the reward that awaits those who are faithful. 3. Not lording it over, but proving to be examples - Third, spiritual oversight is to be exercised in a
- [The Heart of a Truly Effective Leader](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/07/20/the-heart-of-a-truly-effective-leader/) - The past couple weeks, our pastoral staff read through Jerry Wragg's book on leadership with our two interns. Having previously read through Jerry's book when it first came out in 2010, this was my second read-through, and it remains among my Top 5 books on spiritual leadership. In the Introduction, the author calls us to
- [The Gospel and Grief](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/09/13/the-gospel-and-grief/) - [Note: Today's post is from Bob Kellemen, and is the Introduction to his new daily devotional on grief.] Grief. It comes in all forms and fashions, because loss comes in all shapes and sizes. When we think of grief, our souls tend to focus especially on the devastating grief that accompanies death. Yet life is
- [Counseling and the Local Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/10/15/counseling-and-the-local-church/) - How can your church become a place to grow in grace? The newest collaborative book from the Biblical Counseling Coalition, Biblical Counseling and the Church, equips your congregation to be a family where every member is empowered to speak the truth in love so your entire church matures in Christ. Dozens of authors practically and
- [God's Word Heals Your Hurts](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/23/gods-word-heals-your-hurts/) - He sent out his word and healed them…(Psalm 107:20) Scripture is a healing balm to the hurting heart. As its truths ruminate in our distressed minds, they bring stability to our faith, and warmly nestle into our inner person. Who is not comforted by promises such as these? …fear not, for I am with you;
- [Nine Marks of a Christian Family](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/04/29/9-marks-of-a-christian-family/) - What makes a Christian family distinct from a non-Christian one? Is it the number of times those in it attend church each week, or are there many more fundamental differences? Recently, at a parenting workshop at our church, I passed on the following outline that I had developed about fifteen years ago and have taught
- [The Gospel “Y” Chart](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/02/10/the-gospel-y-chart/) - Many years ago, during my initial training in biblical counseling, I was introduced to the Y-Chart diagram. Since then, I’ve used it hundreds of times to help others to learn how the motivations of the heart work out in our lives and, therefore, why we must address the issues of the heart as we pursue
- [Six Actions to Take when Grieving the Death of a Loved One](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/09/27/6-actions-to-take-when-grieving-the-death-of-a-loved-one/) - Elisabeth Elliot was widowed twice and, therefore, understood grief better than most others. In a simple tract entitled “Facing the Death of Someone You Love,” which I recently discovered on one of my favorite book websites, she brings words of comfort to the bereaved by offering six specific points of counsel. Be still and know
- [God's Anger Can Open the Door to Experiencing His Mercy](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/02/15/gods-anger-can-open-the-door-to-experiencing-his-mercy/) - God is love. He would never intentionally bring pain and suffering into my life. Therefore, the grief that I experience is from some impersonal force—like fate— something random and out of control. It certainly cannot be from God. He is too good to let me suffer. Many professing Christians reason this way. But the Bible
- [Sing Through Your Sorrow](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/15/joy-beyond-the-sorrow/) - My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast! I will sing and make melody! (Psalm 57:7) Singing infuses strength to our inner person, as it gently applies healing truth to our hurting hearts. However, sometimes, our emotions don’t seem very cooperative. We don’t always feel like singing. When this is the case, we
- [Faithful Shepherd Retreat for Ministry Leaders and their Wives - May 9-11, 2022](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/02/14/faithful-shepherd-retreat-for-ministry-leaders-and-their-wives-may-9-11-2022/) - Since 1837, God has been using a breathtakingly beautiful property on an island peninsula in New Jersey for His honor and glory. This spring, P&R Publishing and the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF) are collaborating to host a relaxing three days of encouragement for ministry leaders and their wives. The leadership of Harvey Cedars
- ["Grief and the Gospel" - A Free Seminar in Cleveland, Ohio](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/02/09/grief-and-the-gospel-a-free-seminar-in-cleveland-ohio/) - Loss comes in many forms: loss through the death of a spouse, child, or other loved one; loss of relationships through conflict, betrayal, estrangement, divorce, or a move across the country; loss of financial security due to business failure, foreclosure, or long-term unemployment; loss of health or personal dreams because of disability or terminal illness.
- [A God-Given Victory for Biblical Counseling and Pastoral Practice](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/02/08/a-god-given-victory-for-biblical-counseling-and-pastoral-practice/) - I rejoice and am thankful to be able to pass on this update from Kevin Carson. Praising the Lord that the sponsors of WL Ordinance 31-21 withdrew their proposal. Thanks to the thousands of people who stood up for the truth of God’s Word and the power of the Gospel.We’re looking forward to pivoting back
- [GUEST POST: Why I Wrote "Help! I've Been Diagnosed with a Mental Disorder" (Christine Chappell)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/02/01/why-i-wrote-help-ive-been-diagnosed-with-a-mental-disorder-christine-chappell/) - According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, nearly 1 in 4 American adults suffers from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year.[1] As biblical counselors, it’s not uncommon for us to meet with men, women, and children who have sought out psychiatric care for the disruptive problems they’re experiencing. Personally, 80% of the women I’ve met
- [Elijah’s Tree - A Helping Ministry for Discouraged and Depressed Ministers of the Gospel](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/11/03/elijahs-tree-ministry-for-discouraged-ministers/) - Sometimes discouraged, hurting people in ministry feel like they have no one to talk to and are unsure of whom they can trust. As a veteran ministry couple, Carey and Rynette are called to bless pastors and their wives, missionaries, and chaplains with a safe, caring, relational environment in which to offload their burdens and
- [The Liberating Truth of Romans 6](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/05/03/the-liberating-truth-of-romans-6/) - Many Christians live defeated spiritual lives. They may not want to live this way, but they have not been able to overcome issues in their lives that impede their spiritual growth. Many are crippled by fears, consumed with worries, quick to become angry, and given to lustful thoughts. Some are enslaved to alcohol, drugs, or
- [Lemuel Haynes: A Portrait of Gospel-Centered Black Church History](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/01/31/lemuel-haynes-a-portrait-of-gospel-centered-black-church-history/) - Today’s post is written by my friend and fellow biblical counselor Bob Kellemen. It is excerpted from his book, Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care. A Gospel-Centered Ministry: “The Black Puritan” Lemuel Haynes offers a remarkable example of African American ministerial modeling. Born at West Hartford, Connecticut, in 1753, of
- [Fourteen "Amen Sentences"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/08/18/14-amen-sentences/) - One of the tasks that I both love and hate as a seminary professor is grading papers. I hate it because it can be so laborious. But I love it because I get to see if I succeeded in stimulating any "light bulb moments" in my students. I especially love it when I see these
- [Five Characteristics of Spiritual Growth](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/07/13/5-characteristics-of-spiritual-growth/) - From time to time, over the past several months, I have passed on to you valuable teaching about the doctrine of sanctification from Christ Formed In You by Brian Hedges, which my men’s small group has been studying this year. In Part 2 of the book, “The Pattern of Personal Change,” Hedges draws 5 characteristics
- [RESOURCES: Communication/Speech](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/01/26/resources-communication-speech/) - MINI-BOOKS Conflict: A Redemptive Opportunity (Timothy Lane)Help! I'm in a Conflict (Ernie Baker)Sinful Speech (John Flavel) BOOKS A Proverbs Driven Life (Anthony Selvaggio)Graciousness: Tempering Truth with Love (John Crotts)Marriage Conflict: Talking as Teammates - 31-day Devotional (Steve Hoppe)Resisting Gossip (Matt Mitchell)Speaking the Truth in Love: Counsel in Community (David Powlison)War of Words: Getting to the
- [Ten Qualities of Scripture which Testify of its Ability to Transform Us from the Inside Out](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/10/24/10-qualities-of-scripture-which-testify-of-its-ability-to-transform-us-from-the-inside-out/) - In Psalm 19, the choirmaster David exalts the revelation of God. The first six verses, which describe how God’s created works reveal His majesty, wisdom, and power, begin this way: “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals
- [Six Qualities of the Posture of Forgiveness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/01/11/6-qualities-of-the-posture-of-forgiveness/) - The Holy Spirit was kind to include the very personal letter of Philemon in our Bible, as a case study in forgiveness practiced the way Jesus commanded. Three Main Characters There are three main characters in this true story of redemption and forgiveness: Paul, the apostle, who was in prison; Philemon, a brother in the
- [Four Truths to Take Away from Noah’s Flood](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/03/06/4-truths-to-take-away-from-noahs-flood/) - Genesis 6-8 may be summarized in two sentences: God was so grieved by the wickedness of mankind that His holiness activated His justice, and He destroyed the world with a universal flood. But, in His great mercy, He also saved some by grace. Chapter 6 begins with an unclear description of sinful intermarriages, which resulted
- [The God Who Has Been My Shepherd All My Life Long](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/01/27/the-god-who-has-been-my-shepherd-all-my-life-long/) - In my daily Bible reading this morning, I was struck by a phrase in Jacob's blessing of Joseph. ...the God who has been my shepherd all my life long to this dayGenesis 48:15 Through all his failings and sins, times of following and times of straying, Jacob understood that God had been his faithful, loving,
- [NUGGETS [4/24/13]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/04/25/nuggets-42413/) - Here's a few things I've read in the past few days. Just a forewarning, the last two are pretty lengthy. Same-Sex Marriage as a Civil Right--Are Wrongs Rights? - Answers in Genesis asked Counseling One Another to recommend some resources for a sidebar to this important article by Albert Mohler, who writes, "The advocates for
- [Three Promises God Wants You to Trust](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/09/25/3-promises-god-wants-you-to-trust/) - Jeremiah prophesied to the southern kingdom of Judah before and as the people were taken away to Babylon by king Nebuchadnezzar. Chapter 32 of this prophetic book, which I preached last Sunday, is the center of a three-chapter section in which God gives hope through prophecies of restoration. “I will bring back” is the key
- [WEEK 7: The Radical Witness of a Singing Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/01/25/week-7-the-radical-witness-of-a-singing-church/) - Glorious worship is exuberant, never half-hearted. It is attractive, not off-putting. It is awesome, never sentimental. It is brilliant not careless. It points to God, not to the speakers.... There is nothing more evangelistic, nothing that will win the world more than glorious worship.Tim and Kathy Keller, The Songs of Jesus The seventh and final
- [Six Truths that Help You to Accept Unwelcome Change](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/01/12/six-truths-that-help-you-to-accept-change/) - In Psalm 46, God gives us specific counsel so that we may know how to respond to unwelcome change. See if you can spot any of the encouragement the Holy Spirit placed in this psalm for you. Grab a pencil or highlighter and mark any truths about God that you notice in the Scripture below.
- [Three Counseling Lessons from the Titanic](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/04/16/3-simple-counseling-lessons-from-the-titanic/) - The sinking of the British passenger ship Titanic, 100 years ago, was one of the greatest tragedies of history. The splendor of the vessel’s luxury knew no equal. With its sixteen watertight compartments, the ship was believed to be unsinkable even if two of those compartments flooded. The designer himself boasted, “not even God could
- [Jesus throughout the Bible](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/26/jesus-throughout-the-bible/) - Jesus and His work of redeeming sinners is the red thread that runs through the Bible, from Genesis through Revelation. Years ago, someone captured this centrality of Christ in the Bible by identifying the reflection of His image in each book. It goes like this: In Genesis, Jesus is the ram at Abraham’s altar.In Exodus,
- [Three Sleep Aids from Psalm 3](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/09/29/three-sleep-aids-from-psalm-3/) - It’s 4:00 a.m. and I’m awake, my body still recovering from jet lag. This is to be expected after teaching Common Issues Addressed in Biblical Counseling in Ukraine, last week. Unexpectedly, however, counseling people with sleep problems generated more class discussion than many other topics. And surprisingly, the very next day William Varner, a Bible
- [A Double Remedy for a Downcast Spirit](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/08/a-double-remedy-for-a-downcast-spirit/) - For as long as I can remember, Psalms 42 and 43 have been a refuge for my soul and the souls of brothers and sisters whom I have helped to work through times of spiritual depression. The honesty of the psalmist is startling to those who have the impression the Bible only speaks in platitudes
- [Top Security for the Anxious Heart](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/05/01/top-security-for-the-anxious-heart/) - Psalm 18 is an example of the emotional honesty of the Scriptures, which is something the church needs. Over the 32 years that I’ve been a believer, I’ve noticed a pattern among most Evangelicals; that is, that the only emotional expression that is perfectly acceptable for a “good Christian” is happiness. If we don’t portray
- [Why Are You Cast Down, O My Soul?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/27/why-are-you-cast-down-o-my-soul/) - Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.Psalm 42:5 Grief and loss can lead to many questions. But not all questions are bad. Psalms 42 and 43 include examples of the kind of
- [God Is Near](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/10/god-is-near/) - The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.(Psalm 34:18) Loss comes in many different forms. Loss of a spouse, child, or another loved one to death. Loss of relationships through betrayal, estrangement, divorce, or a move across the country. Loss of financial security through business failure, foreclosure, or long-term unemployment.
- [King David’s Mission Statement](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/08/18/king-davids-mission-statement/) - “Nowadays Psalm 101 would be called ‘David’s Mission Statement’. We can picture him at the start of his monarchy setting out the sort of king he intends to be, the ‘court’ he will assemble, and with what objectives he will rule his people. The fact that---in the Bible’s honest way---we know how he failed, does
- [The Finest Gold Is Yet to Come](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/05/26/yet-the-finest-gold-is-yet-to-come/) - "Psalm 73 contains one of the most rhapsodic [emotionally expressive] and uplifting passages in the whole Psalter, and, indeed, there is hardly need for anything beyond letting their rhythms and sentiments sink into our souls." So writes Alec Motyer in Psalms By the Day, which I lifted from my side table again this morning. These
- [A Counselor’s Resume](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/03/31/a-biblical-resume/) - What should a biblical counselor’s resume look like? What would you list to demonstrate your qualifications? Actually, the Apostle Paul has already written such a resume for us. It’s found in Romans 15:14. I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to instruct
- [The Features and Fruits of Hellish Wisdom](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/07/12/the-features-and-fruits-of-hellish-wisdom/) - Continuing from yesterday, we are considering a key New Testament passage on wisdom, James 3:13-18. We already noted that meekness is a key mark of the wise person. Today, we examine the features and fruits of worldly wisdom explained in verses 14-16. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do
- [Five Types of Gossiping People](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/07/26/5-types-of-gossiping-people/) - “Every small bit of sinful gossip in daily life is an evil echo of what went wrong at the very beginning. In fact, gossip is the same ugly sin played out again and again. Gossip is believing the ancient lie that we can attempt to play God by destroying others with the power of our
- [3 Ways We Judge Wrongly](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/05/01/3-ways-we-judge-wrongly/) - Jesus instructed His disciples to judge righteous judgment (John 7:24), but He also said, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged" (Matt. 7:1). Is this a contradiction? No. We are called to use biblical truth and wisdom to discern rightly, but we are foolish when we make judgments based upon appearance or only
- [Two Right Ways to Respond to Gossip](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/08/2-ways-to-respond-to-gossip/) - “You will be gossiped about. If it has not happened yet, get ready, because someday you will find yourself in the cross-hairs of gossip,” writes Matt Mitchell, pastor of Lanse Evangelical Free Church. “Sadly,” he continues, “most of the time you will not know that you are a target of someone’s harmful words. Perniciously, gossip
- [10 Ways Church Leaders May Cultivate Gossip-Resistance](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/26/10-ways-church-leaders-may-cultivate-gossip-resistance/) - This is the final post in a series drawn from Matt Mitchell's book entitled Resisting Gossip: Winning the War of the Wagging Tongue. Today, I summarize the Bonus Chapter written to church leaders, which gives counsel as to how to cultivate a gossip-resistant church. Matt recommends 10 ways leaders may protect their church from the
- [WEEK 6: Singing with Your Church Family](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/01/08/week-6-singing-with-your-church/) - Please accept my apology for dropping the ball on our 7-week reading-together plan. I didn't realize I had done so until I rediscovered my copy of SING! How Worship Transforms Your Life, Family, and Church on a shelf in a room that is now my home office. We moved to a different house in June
- [WEEK 1: Singing Is From God and For God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/28/week-1-singing-is-from-god-and-for-god/) - I hope you enjoyed the reading for the first of our seven weeks together, as much as we did. One evening, I took out our copy of SING! How Worship Transforms Your Life, Family, and Church and read the Prelude and Chapter One out loud to the family after supper, and we talked through the
- [Let Not Our Heart Sink Within Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/2022/01/05/let-not-our-heart-sink-within-us/) - Every Wednesday morning our church staff gathers for a weekly meeting and prayer time. We typically begin by discussing a chapter in the book we are reading together. This morning, however, we didn't do that because of sickness and weariness from the past couple weeks. So, I asked the staff which of the daily devotionals
- [Still, My Soul be Still](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/04/25/still-my-soul-be-still-2/) - Still my soul be still And do not fear Though winds of change may rage tomorrow God is at your side No longer dread The fires of unexpected sorrow God You are my God And I will trust in You and not be shaken Lord of peace renew A steadfast spirit within me To rest
- [What Grace Is Mine](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/09/14/what-grace-is-mine/) - Another wonderful modern hymn from Keith and Krystyn Getty… What grace is mine that He who dwells in endless light Called through the night to find my distant soul And from his scars poured mercy that would plead for me That I might live and in his name be known So I will go
- [Make these Four Commitments to Live Out Your Faith in 2022 - A New Year's Eve Bible Study Suggestion](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/12/31/4-commitments-of-new-life-in-jesus/) - But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. (Rev. 2:4) Jesus's letter to the church at Ephesus contains words of affirmation as well as this pointed rebuke. The believers there were encouraged to hear from their Lord and Savior that He was pleased with their faithful stand
- [What Is God Doing through the Death of My Spouse?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/12/29/what-is-god-doing-through-the-death-of-my-spouse/) - "I can’t claim to be inside God’s head, to know His reasons for everything that goes on. Yes, Scripture says I’m to have the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5). But that doesn’t mean He answers all my questions." So writes Sue Nicewander Delaney in her new mini-book. Even the big ones. When my husband Jim
- [Six Reasons to Be a Faithful Member of a Local Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/09/19/6-reasons-to-be-a-faithful-member-of-a-local-church/) - It is our conviction that every Christian should be an active member of a Bible-teaching local church. As believers in Christ, we are members of His body and must discipline ourselves to be actively involved in ministry as a way of life. Here are some specific reasons why you should be a committed member of
- [Don't Pray Like a Hypocrite](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/06/dont-pray-like-the-hypocrites/) - Without doubt, the model prayer known as The Lord’s Prayer or Our Father is the best known of all prayers. Many of us memorized it as children, as part of our religious upbringing. While reciting it over the years, however, some of us understood its meaning while most of us were only repeating words. This
- [A Hope Deferred – A Book Review](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/21/a-hope-deferred-a-book-review/) - A Hope Deferred: Adoption and the Fatherhood of God is a valuable new contribution to the small, but growing number of books that address the topic of adoption from a biblical perspective. Clearly written by someone who has “been there” this book is the fruit of two decades of thinking and praying. From the earliest
- [Oh, the Depth of the Mercy of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/12/29/oh-the-depth-of-the-mercy-of-god/) - Mercy is God’s withholding of the judgment we deserve because of the payment of Jesus. Mercy is only available from God because Jesus paid the penalty for our sins. He is our propitiation (Rom. 3:25; Heb. 2:17; 1 Jn. 2:2). He satisfied the righteous wrath of God against our sin, and did so willingly (John
- [When I Get to the End of the Way](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/12/27/when-i-get-to-the-end-of-the-way/) - Poetry that comforts the heart and stirs the soul by beautifully communicating biblical truth is a blessing to God's people. Yesterday, the following poem ministered to my heart, and I hope it is a blessing and encouragement to you as well. It was originally posted by Tim Challies and is reposted here with permission. Introducing
- [Why We Need to Help One Another Grow in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/12/09/we-must-counsel-one-another/) - The Lord of the church is at work. Jesus Christ is building His church. However, He is not only building His church, He is also making her holy—a work that He will not stop performing until she is blameless: Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, that He might sanctify her,
- [Missing Someone at Christmas](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/12/18/missing-someone-at-christmas/) - Loss comes in many forms: loss through the death of a spouse, child, or other loved one; loss of relationships through conflict, betrayal, estrangement, divorce, or a move across the country; loss of financial security due to business failure, foreclosure, or long-term unemployment; loss of health or personal dreams because of disability or terminal illness.
- [Satan’s Permission to Sift You like Wheat](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/25/satans-permission-to-sift-you-like-wheat/) - “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat” (Luke 22:31). Did Jesus ever speak more startling words to His disciples? Though Peter is named, since he was their leader, Jesus is referring to all of the Twelve ("you" is plural). All of them would be attacked by the devil but, as
- [A Dad Talks with His Son about Masturbation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/22/a-dad-talks-with-his-son-about-masturbation/) - This is the third and final installment from a new book by Jay Younts, Everyday Talk about Sex and Marriage: A Biblical Handbook for Parents. One of the unique features of this little book is the final section, which consists of real-life conversations between parents and their kids about sexuality. Six examples are included: A
- [Is Jesus His Mother's Savior?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/12/21/is-jesus-his-mothers-savior/) - Mankind’s need for a savior is universal. Each one of us lives in desperate need of someone to rescue us from the wages of our sin, which is eternal death (Romans 6:23). There is no exception. All have sinned and are; therefore, delinquent of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Every person—from Adam and Eve
- [One Cause of Unanswered Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/10/10/one-cause-of-unanswered-prayer/) - Cherishing our pet sin is like craving to eat our own, warm vomit. I’m sorry to be so gross, but that is biblical imagery. Proverbs 26:11 says, “Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly.” There is something within our sin nature that blinds us to just how
- [Exposing the Sin of Overeating](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/05/17/exposing-the-sin-of-overeating/) - “God declares overeating to be a sin: ‘For the heavy drinker and the glutton will come to poverty’ (Proverbs 23:21). There are several definitions of sin in the Bible: ‘the devising of folly is sin’ (Proverbs 24:9). ‘Whatever is not from faith is sin’ (Romans 14:23), ‘therefore, to one who knows the right thing to
- [What Is Sacrificial Giving?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/09/17/what-is-sacrificial-giving/) - For the past week, I’ve been reflecting on the portion of Scripture where the apostle Paul lifts up certain Christians in the region of Macedonia as an example of sacrificial giving. We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe
- [You Can Approach the Unapproachable God Because of the Finished Work of Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/04/approaching-the-unapproachable-god-2/) - He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords; who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light; whom no man has seen or can see (1 Tim. 6:15-16). Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith (Hebrews 10:22). Is it inconsistent for
- [Cease Striving](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/05/15/cease-striving/) - In light of the psalmist’s assurance of God’s protection: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,” he instructs us to “Cease striving” (Psalm 46:10). The Hebrew word translated “cease” means to sink or relax. “Striving” is a term that typically refers to warfare, so the admonition can be stated this
- [37 Ways to Love One Another](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/14/37-ways-to-love-one-another/) - A local church is not built by one man, or even a few men, but by every believer being actively involved in ministry through evangelizing the lost people in their lives and serving their fellow Christians. A quick glance at the practice of the New Testament church reveals that they thought very little about programs
- [Eight Responsibilities of Church Members to their Leaders](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/10/13/8-responsibilities-of-church-members-to-their-leaders/) - According to the New Testament, the members of a local church have at least eight ongoing responsibilities to their shepherds. We find the first two in Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonian church. Responsibility #1: To appreciate them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). The first responsibility of church members to their leaders is to “know” them. The
- [Five Reasons God Prunes Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/28/5-reasons-god-prunes-us/) - According to John 15:1-8, our interpretation of the sanctifying work that God accomplishes in our lives—especially during times of trial—is directly related to our understanding of pruning. This, in turn, affects our response to personal suffering and to others in their time of trial. If we view pruning as punitive, rather than restorative, we lose
- [Why the Counsel of “Boundaries” Can Be Unhelpful to the Christian](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/22/why-the-counsel-of-boundaries-is-unhelpful-to-the-christian/) - A challenge that complicates the journey towards a godly response to abuse is the mass of popular literature which counsels victims from a feelings-centered position. Much of the literature available focuses on self-protection, rather than holiness, as a primary goal. For example, in their book Boundaries, Cloud and Townsend make it clear that their ultimate
- [9 Gospel-Reflecting Ways to Respond to a Former Abuser](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/23/9-gospel-reflecting-responses-to-abusers/) - In his new mini-book, HELP! My Parents Abused Me When I Was a Kid, Joshua Zeichik writes, “As a Christian with a commitment to honor God, you must look to Scripture to evaluate whether your motives and responses reflect your new role as an ambassador of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:11–21).” He then provides the following
- [Mourning for Sarah](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/06/mourning-for-sarah/) - Sarah lived 127 years; these were the years of the life of Sarah. And Sarah died at Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan, and Abraham went in to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her. (Genesis 23:1-2) It is heart-wrenching to lose someone you love, especially one with whom you’ve been
- [The Lord Is Always Looking After You](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/12/15/the-lord-is-always-looking-after-you/) - So she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, “You are a God of seeing,” for she said, “Truly here I have seen him who looks after me.”Gen. 16:13 God hears and sees you amid your pain and will always look after you. No matter what your grief, loss, or even fear,
- [The King Is Coming](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/12/17/the-king-is-coming/) - The past three Sundays, we've been in the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke learning from God's gracious plan for Zacharias and Elizabeth, and their promised son, John. Perhaps you may find a use for these messages, as you prepare yourself and others for a Christ-centered meditation of the meaning of Christmas. The King
- [Who Is the Word that Became Flesh?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/12/06/who-is-the-word-that-became-flesh/) - According to the website, Bethelemtravel.com, it is hard to predict how many tourists will visit Bethlehem during Christmas, this year, since this number is always influenced by the tension and events in the region. The number of visitors during Christmas in 2011 was the highest in a decade, mounting to 100,000 tourists. It seems the
- [His Name Shall Be...](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/12/11/his-name-shall-be/) - Isaiah 9:6-7, which was proclaimed 700 years before the birth of Jesus Christ, is one of the most-often quoted prophecies of the Savior’s first coming, but the prophecy longs to be completely satisfied when Jesus returns a second time to establish His perfect reign on the earth. For a child will be born to us,
- [The Everlasting Father-King](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/12/19/the-everlasting-father-king/) - For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. - Isaiah 9:6 The Messiah’s third title, Everlasting Father, declares His pre-existence and reveals that he would be the
- [The Isaiah 9:6 Savior](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/12/24/the-isaiah-96-savior/) - Isaiah 9:6-7, which was proclaimed 700 years before the birth of Jesus Christ, is one of the most-often quoted prophecies of the Savior’s first coming, but the prophecy longs to be completely satisfied when Jesus returns a second time to establish His perfect reign on the earth. For a child will be born to us,
- [The Book of Jonah Is Not About a Man Who Gets Swallowed by a Whale](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/08/15/the-book-of-jonah-is-not-about-a-man-who-gets-swallowed-by-a-whale/) - The book of Jonah contains one of the most famous of all Bible stories, which is the historical account of a rebellious prophet who is swallowed by a great fish, gets vomited onto the beach, and then preaches an eight-word sermon to a wicked city and everybody repents. But that’s not primarily what the book
- [How Do I Find a Biblical Counselor in My Area?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/26/how-do-i-find-a-biblical-counselor-in-my-area/) - This is one of the most common questions I receive when people contact me through this blog. Therefore, I recommend you visit the websites of the following biblical counseling organizations. The ACBC (Association of Certified Biblical Counselors) maintains a list of certified biblical counselors. Their list is searchable by zip code. You can visit it at Find
- [Speaking the Truth in Love—A Vision for the Entire Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/12/07/speaking-the-truth-in-love-a-vision-for-the-entire-church/) - Today, I'm traveling to the annual leadership summit of the Biblical Counseling Coalition. For a decade this has been a highlight for me---a time of encouragement, personal growth, and refreshment as leaders from many biblical counseling organizations gather to discuss issues, needs, and priorities in the biblical counseling world. If you are unfamiliar with the
- [Jesus Is Our Scapegoat](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/06/12/jesus-is-our-scapegoat/) - Last Sunday, as part of our sermon series From Garden to Garden, we looked at Leviticus 16 together. As we learned of God's inauguration of the Day of Atonement, we focused most of our attention on the two goats which Aaron, the high priest, cast lots over. Here's what we learned: Jesus is the only
- [Don’t Date a Fool](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/03/24/dont-date-a-fool/) - Single Christians often ask, “What character qualities should I look for in a future spouse?” To which we reply, “Search the Scriptures and see what God commends.” But there is another equally important question to ask: “Is He or She a Fool?” To which Joel James provides the following sound response. Pursuing a marriage-kind-of-relationship with
- [3 Self-Study Projects for the Depressed [Pt 3 of 3]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/24/a-biblical-approach-to-depression-pt-3-of-3-guest-post/) - Today, Dr. Bob Somerville provides us with the final post in this 3-part series on depression. In Part 1, he drew out of Elijah's experience some of the common causes of depression. In Part 2, he showed how God ministered to the hurting prophet in his time of despair. Today, he supplies us with suggested
- [God, in Elijah's Depression [Pt. 2 of 3]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/23/a-biblical-approach-to-depression-pt-2-of-3-guest-post/) - In yesterday's post, Dr. Bob Somerville began using the example of Elijah to draw principles for us to consider when counseling one another through depression. The emphasis, yesterday, was the factors that contributed to Elijah's depressed state. In today's post, Bob demonstrates the loving care and compassion of God toward His struggling servant by drawing
- [Some Factors in Elijah's Depression [Pt. 1 of 3]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/22/a-biblical-approach-to-depression-pt-1-of-3-guest-post/) - Depression is a malady of the human experience---one of a multitude of ways fallen creatures wrestle through living in a fallen world. Today, tomorrow, and Wednesday our blog posts are gleaned from my friend Dr. Bob Somerville of the Master’s College. The material provided here was first presented in a workshop at the annual conference
- [Elijah was a Weak Sinner, Like Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/01/28/elijah-was-a-weak-sinner/) - James 5:16-18 teaches us, The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the earth for three years and six months. Then he prayed again, and the sky poured rain
- [11 Myths and Misperceptions about Suicide](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/04/15/11-myths-and-misperceptions-about-suicide/) - This week, we will focus attention on the subject of suicide. We will seek to understand this growing, heart-wrenching problem in our fallen world. As we learn to be wise friends and counselors, let's also pray that we will grow in ministering the grace and truth of Jesus Christ to those who have lost all
- [Making Disciples Engages You in Spiritual Warfare](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/12/02/making-disciples-engages-you-in-spiritual-warfare/) - Do not be surprised by spiritual opposition when you get involved in helping others apply God's Word to their life, since the work of making obedient disciples of Christ is a frontal attack against the kingdom of the devil. Therefore, the unrelenting strategy of Satan to oppose the ministry of personal discipleship also accentuates our
- [Work Out Our Own Salvation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/05/16/working-out-our-own-salvation/) - As believers, we long to be more like Christ but some days we feel we are taking three steps forward and two steps back. How do we approach the Christian life? How do we make steady progress in our spiritual growth? How can we overcome sin and become more like Christ? The teaching in Philippians
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (November 29)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/29/nuggets-of-wisdom-november-29/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). Satan will be Crushed - The end of the story is that God of peace will crush Satan under
- [Psalm 25 and "My God Is..." List](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/06/07/psalm-25-and-my-god-is-list/) - For some time now, having been encouraged by a sister in the Lord in our church, I have been forming a "My God Is" list. The purpose of this list is to intentionally place the focus of my mind and heart upon that which is true, honorable, upright, etc (Philippians 4:8). This morning, I found
- [The Remedy for Discontentment](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/11/10/the-remedy-for-discontentment/) - Discontentment is the fuel of consumerism. Unless an advertising agency is able to design effective marketing strategies, which feed upon discontentment in its targeted consumers, it will eventually go out of business. Therefore, discontentment is necessary for the existence of some businesses. Not all, of course. Many products and services are essential to our wellbeing,
- [Six Benefits of Giving Thanks in Everything](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/25/give-thanks-in-all-things/) - “In everything give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). We must be told this because by nature we are not thankful people. It is more natural for sinners like us to complain and to be ungrateful. Regrettably, Jerry Bridges is correct when he writes, “We are anxious to receive but too careless to give thanks. We pray
- [Twenty-Two Benefits of Fearing God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/05/28/22-benefits-of-fearing-god/) - In my review of some of the "husband books" in my personal library, I was paging through Wayne Mack's Your Family God's Way, particularly the chapter entitled "The Maximum Husband and Father." Mack comments on Psalm 128:1-4. "This psalm indicates that to be God's kind of husband and father, you must be a man who
- [Teaching Sound Doctrine Is An Essential Part of the Pastor's Job Description](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/29/sound-doctrine-the-pastors-job-description/) - The latest edition of the 9Marks Journal is entitled: Sound Doctrine: The Foundation of Faithful Ministry. I was honored to contribute the following article on the priority of teaching doctrine. The apostle Paul’s ministry offers an ideal model for today’s pastor, but I fear it’s one many churches today have lost sight of. Consider Paul’s
- [Making the Wisest Use of Our Time](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/03/21/making-the-wisest-use-of-our-time/) - Every week, each of us has 168 hours. If we were to try to account for those hours, we may allocate about 56 hours to sleep and 40-60 hours for employment, including commutes. That leaves 50-70 hours/week for shopping, education, family, church, and household responsibilities. Once all of that is factored into the equation, the
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (November 15th)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/15/nuggets-of-wisdom-november-15th/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). Beholding Beauty Devotional: Isaiah 26:3-4 - Jesus tells us that in Him we can experience peace. In order for
- [Ten Warnings Signs of Alzheimer's Disease](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/27/alzheimers-an-example-of-illness-affecting-mind-and-spirit/) - According to Alzheimer's Awareness website, more than 6 million people in the United States and 50 million worldwide are currently living with Alzheimer's and dementia. Since November is National Alzheimer's Awareness month, I want to make sure you are aware of a faithful and compassionate mini-book that is written to come alongside victims and caregivers,
- [Rescue Plan and Rescue Skills for Helping Prisoners to Pornography](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/10/rescue-plan-and-rescue-skills-for-helping-prisoners-to-pornography/) - Too many of the counseling cases I oversee, in my role as a trainer of counselors, involve pornography. I'm sad to have to say that, but it is true. So, I'm always open to learning from other biblical counselors who have demonstrated faithfulness over the long haul. Deepak Reju and Jonathan Holmes are two counselors
- [A Dad Reflects On Having Three Boys On the Autism Spectrum](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/21/dad-to-dad-reflections-on-having-three-boys-on-the-autism-spectrum/) - Meet a friend of mind: Greg Hubert of Torrance, CA, who is an executive at Joni & Friends, the Christian Global Disability Ministry and father of three boys on the Autism spectrum. Greg and his wife, Gina, have been married for 33 years and are the proud parents of three boys; Zachary (29), Tyler (27)
- [What Is a Saint?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/18/what-is-a-saint/) - If you were to ask the average person to name someone in their lifetime whom they considered to be a saint, one name that you would surely hear is Mother Teresa. Mother Teresa was a Roman Catholic nun who dedicated her life to helping the poor, especially in Calcutta, India. Last September, 19 years after
- [Six Personal Responsibilities of God-Centered Worship](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/08/31/6-personal-responsibilities-of-god-centered-worship/) - Last Sunday, as we continued our From Garden to Garden sermon series, we spent our time with Solomon at the dedication of the temple in 1 Kings 8. Together, we took note of six responsibilities we must embrace in order to maintain God-centered worship. To be God-centered in our worship we must… Recognize the priority
- [An Appetite for the Word of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/17/an-appetite-for-the-word-2/) - Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.1 Peter 2:2-3 Every one of our ten babies loved to eat. If they didn’t have an appetite, then it was a clue that something wasn’t quite right. The
- [Jesus Is Empathetic Toward Us Because He Knows and Understands Our Weaknesses](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/15/jesus-is-empathetic-toward-us-because-he-knows-and-understands-our-weaknesses/) - Jesus Christ, fully God and fully man, is the one whose perfect life and sin-atoning death serves as the only possible bridge between sinful man and a holy God. Accordingly, all our prayers must go “through” him. As Our Savior, Jesus Opened the Way to God Our status as sinners originated when Adam and Eve
- [The Difference Between Punishment and Discipline](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/14/the-difference-between-punishment-and-discipline/) - Just as God marvelously designed the human body to heal a broken bone, so He has equipped the body of Christ with all that is necessary for every member to be involved in the process of restoring broken parts damaged by sin. As with the human body’s reaction to broken bone, restoration of sinning brethren
- [Help! My Loved One Had a Stroke (Sue Nicewander Delaney)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/29/help-my-loved-one-had-a-stroke-sue-nicewander-delaney/) - In December 2013, my husband Jim had a debilitating stroke that took away the use of his left side, leaving him wheelchair-bound and in need of significant assistance with just about everything. My husband’s sudden disability overturned our lives in every way. We faced overwhelming challenges and losses, from finances to housing to legal needs
- [Divine Remedies for Anxiety, Part 3](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/10/20/divine-remedies-for-anxiety-part-3/) - In the previous two posts, we took heed to several of God’s commands and admonitions found in Philippians 4:4-7, which are related to the human struggle with anxiety. On Tuesday, we took note of every believer’s obligation to rejoice at all times (v. 4) and our calling to be people who are known for their
- [Divine Remedies for Anxiety, Part 2](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/10/19/divine-remedies-for-anxiety-part-2/) - In Philippians 4:6-7, we find additional help for our soul’s battle with anxiety, specifically the divine help that comes as a result of prayer. Yesterday, we took heed to God’s command to rejoice at all times (v. 4) and put on the character quality of gentleness (v. 5). Today, we need to take heed to
- [Divine Remedies for Anxiety, Part 1](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/10/18/divine-remedies-for-anxiety-part-1/) - Anxiety is an aspect of our fallen condition which every one of us battles to one degree or another. Some, like me, may struggle in a significant way at times. But we are not alone. It is estimated that 23 million Americans fight an ongoing battle with anxiety and suffer from “panic attacks,” at least
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (November 9th)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/09/nuggets-of-wisdom-november-9th/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). Parenting Teens with Anxiety - The Teens Need Grace Podcast interviewed me last year on this subject. They've now
- [Under-Rowers for Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/06/21/under-rowers-for-christ/) - According to the Scriptures, faithfulness is the #1 quality of a servant of God. In 1 Corinthians 4:1-2, the apostle said of himself and his co-workers: This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.
- [The Subtle Sin of Prayerlessness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/05/25/the-subtle-sin-of-prayerlessness/) - The prophet Samuel recognized prayer as part of the will of God. When the people of Israel realized the sinfulness of their demand for a human king in the place of God’s sovereign rule, they begged Samuel to intercede for them: “Pray for your servants to the Lord your God, so that we may not
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (October 28)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/28/nuggets-october-28th/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). The Strong and Gentle King Sings Over Me - I'm so grateful for God's gentleness with me. He is
- [Why Is Biblical Repentance Necessary for Christians?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/11/02/why-is-biblical-repentance-important-for-christians/) - Biblical repentance is an important discipline of the Christian life, but it can only be properly understood within the larger work of sanctification. God’s goal is to remake us in the image of Christ (Rom. 8:29). In Christ, we died to sin and were made alive unto God and received the righteousness of Christ as
- [Consequences of the Original Sin](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/03/01/consequences-of-the-original-sin/) - Immediately following Adam's and Eve's choice to rebel against God's singular command, the eyes that were blinded by Satan’s lies were opened (Genesis 3:7). Guilt was known. Shame was felt. They did what they could to hide their sin. And they avoided their righteous Creator. But God took the initiative. God sought them out. And
- [Seven A's of Confession](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/09/15/seven-as-of-confession/) - My week has been pretty crazy as I prepare for a teaching trip to Ukraine. So, I trust you will pardon me for cutting and pasting from my class notes. The following is a bite-sized portion from the lesson entitled Guilt, Repentance, and Forgiveness. As God opens our eyes to see how we have sinned
- [Four Conclusions Concerning “God Is Love”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/10/4-conclusions-concerning-god-is-love/) - Many times, it is the simplest truths that are the most profound and the simplest truths that are most easily forgotten, such as the truth “God is love.” The truth is so simple that people hear it and ignore it. “Of course, He is,” they say, “What else would He be?” And yet it is
- [Ten Quotes from "Saints, Sufferers, & Sinners" by Mike Emlet](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/28/ten-quotes-from-saints-sufferers-sinners-by-mike-emlet/) - I'm a slow reader. On top of that I have the terrible habit of reading well over a dozen books at the same time on various topics and in various genres. This means that it takes me awhile to work through some books, especially ones I want to slowly digest. Such is the case with
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (October 9)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/09/nuggets-of-wisdom-12/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). The CCEF Conference online bookstore is open until October 17th. Many books are 50% off. Longing for Diversity? Reach
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: An Interview with Steve Viars](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/09/12/interview-with-steve-viars/) - Welcome to the eighth installment of our Journey to Biblical Counseling interviews with various pastors, teachers, trainers, authors, and leaders in the biblical counseling movement. What led them to biblical counseling? What were some of the influences the Lord used in their journey? These are just a few of the questions they answer. Our guest
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: An Interview with Randy Patten](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/08/02/interview-with-randy-patten/) - Welcome to the seventh installment of our Journey to Biblical Counseling interviews with various pastors, teachers, trainers, authors, and leaders in the biblical counseling movement. What led them to biblical counseling? What were some of the influences the Lord used in their journey? These are just a few of the questions they answer. Our special
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: An Interview with Elyse Fitzpatrick](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/03/08/interview-with-elyse-fitzpatrick/) - Welcome to the fifth installment of Counseling One Another's feature Journey to Biblical Counseling. Here, I interview various pastors, teachers, trainers, authors, and leaders in the biblical counseling movement. What led them to biblical counseling? What were some of the influences the Lord used in their journey? How do they now define biblical counseling? These are just
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: An Interview with Deepak Reju](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/02/14/interview-with-deepak-reju/) - Welcome to the fourth installment of Counseling One Another's feature Journey to Biblical Counseling. Here, I interview various pastors, teachers, trainers, authors, and leaders in the biblical counseling movement. What led them to biblical counseling? What were some of the influences the Lord used in their journey? How do they now define biblical counseling? These
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: An Interview with Amy Baker](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/06/06/interview-with-dr-amy-baker/) - Welcome to the sixth installment of our Journey to Biblical Counseling interviews with various pastors, teachers, trainers, authors, and leaders in the biblical counseling movement. What led them to biblical counseling? What were some of the influences the Lord used in their journey? How do they now define biblical counseling? These are just a few
- [Six 'Journey to Biblical Counseling' Interviews](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/06/20/six-journey-to-biblical-counseling-interviews/) - Journey to Biblical Counseling is a feature of this blog that began last December. Journey to BC consists of interviews with various pastors, teachers, trainers, authors, and leaders in the biblical counseling movement. What led them to biblical counseling? What were some of the influences the Lord used in their journey? How do they now
- [Forgive As You Have Been Forgiven](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/07/06/forgive-as-you-have-been-forgiven/) - There is hardly a more sober---if not downright frightening---warning to any professing Christian than that found near the end of Jesus’ teaching on prayer. “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses (Matthew
- [NUGGETS (11/16/2019)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/16/nuggets-86/) - Having a Meaningful Christmas on a Tight Budget - "The key to celebrating well is to plan early and ignore the world’s take on Christmas. The example we, as parents, set for our children is enormous. Many of my sweetest memories cost nothing." 4 Members Who Tear Down the Church - "The arm chair critic,
- [NUGGETS (10/22/2019)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/22/nuggets-79/) - Seeing God's Goodness in the Midst of Grief - "Seeing new life in the shadow of death points us daily to the bigger reality of redemption that paints God’s glory in bold, bright colors over a world darkened and grayed by sin." Psalm 126: When We Hit Rock Bottom - "The tears we cry today
- [NUGGETS (9/26/2019)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/26/nuggets-76/) - Laziness Is Profoundly Unchristian - "Christianity, emphatically, does not make men lazy. It makes lazy men, at long last, into serious workers." Why Does Paul Forbid Women to Preach to Men? - I love Boardies from the ministry of WordBoard. Here's their latest 3-minute video. Seven Things Most Christians Do Not Know About Giving to
- [NUGGETS (4/18/2019)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/18/nuggets-59/) - What Is the Day that the Lord Has Made? - An excellent 3-minute Wordboard video explaining the meaning of Psalm 118:24. More Truth About Self-Care - Part two of an important article from the True Woman blog. When Churches Can't Do Everything - Valuable insight from Kevin DeYoung. Is the Church Breeding Loneliness? - An
- [NUGGETS (3/20/2019)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/20/nuggets-54/) - How to Recover from Financial Infidelity - A poll found that 2 in 5 Americans admit to lying about or withholding money information from their partner. Another reports that 15 million people have admitted to hiding financial information from their spouse, and 9 million used to but don’t anymore. Pastor, Be What You Want to
- [NUGGETS (4/25/2018)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/25/nuggets-30/) - The Empty Pursuit of Forgiving Yourself - "If you can free yourself from guilt by forgiving yourself, then you are doing a work you were not called to do. Jesus says that no work is sufficient to take away your guilt, only His perfect sacrifice." J.D. Greear on Signs of a Church's Faithfulness - a
- [NUGGETS (2/4/2019)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/04/nuggets-49/) - Debt Snowball vs. Debt Avalanche: What's the Best Method to Pay Off My Debt? - "There are two main approaches to paying off debt – the debt snowball and debt avalanche methods. These methods are similar and reliable to help you get out of debt faster and with less interest. But is one better than
- [NUGGETS (12/14/2018)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/12/14/nuggets-44/) - Hard Times at Harvest - This is a long, sad article. Let it be a warning to all pastors and elders as to the destructive power of bullying and financial mismanagement. The Power of Christ-Centered Joy - a recent preaching series of 26 sermons has been posted to Sermon Audio. ACBC Online Training - There
- [NUGGETS (11/26/2018)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/11/26/nuggets-42/) - How Do Pastor's Pick Their Fights? - "We need pastors and elders who have enough self-control to avoid needless controversy, and enough courage to move gently and steadily toward conflict." 5 Discipleship Dont's - "In the church, discipleship is key to an individual's growth and to the way they are made more into the image
- [The Holy Spirit Is Always Remodeling](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/26/the-holy-spirit-is-always-remodeling/) - Yesterday, while skimming over quotes from some of my reading in years past, these paragraphs from D. A. Carson’s book, Praying with Paul: A Call to Spiritual Reformation, jumped out and encouraged me. Picture a couple carefully marshaling enough resources to put together a down payment. They buy their house, recognizing full well that it
- [NUGGETS [8/27/16]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/08/26/nuggets-of-wisdom-6/) - Here's some articles that I found interesting this week. The Pastor's PTSD - "My wife, Judy, and I know what it is like to live through a season of church conflict and not be OK, even after the trouble subsides. And we have found the idea of PTSD to be a helpful analogy to understand
- [Ten Common Masks People Wear When Coming for  Counseling (But Don't Usually Know It)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/27/eight-common-masks-people-wear-when-coming-for-counseling-but-dont-usually-know-it/) - In recent months, I've been reviewing my well-worn copy of Paul Tripp's classic counseling training and one-anothering book, Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands. Reading and re-reading certain chapters and underlined portions has been challenging and reaffirming, as I seek ongoing growth as a biblical pastor who counsels his flock. One particular section that stood out
- [What Your Wife Needs Most (Daniel Stegeman)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/15/what-your-wife-needs-most-daniel-stegeman/) - It’s no secret that marriage is in a state of crisis. Divorce is all too common, and even couples who have been together for decades often don’t have healthy, thriving marriages. When we hear of another couple struggling in their marriage, it saddens us, but rarely surprises us. Statistics tell us that the average marriage
- [Building Bridges in the Biblical Counseling Community](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/14/building-bridges-in-the-biblical-counseling-community/) - The Biblical Counseling Coalition exists to multiply the ministry of the biblical counseling movement by strengthening churches, para-church organizations, and educational institutions through promoting unity and excellence in biblical counseling. By fostering relationships among the leaders of biblical counseling ministries around the world the BCC helps promote best practices, encourage cooperation in the movement, and
- [Three Truths You Need to Know About Panic Attacks](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/19/three-truths-you-need-to-know-about-panic-attacks/) - My panic attacks started with a job promotion. When I became the new managing editor of a health and food magazine, Suzy, whom I replaced, advanced to the role of executive editor. This was a happy day for both of us, right? Wrong! On promotion day, Suzy gave me unsettling, steely stares all day. Did
- [Psychoactive Medications](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/03/29/psychoactive-medication/) - The latest issue of the Journal of Biblical Counseling contains wise counsel from Mike Emlet concerning the use and non-use of medication in counseling. I found the article very helpful. To get a gist of its content, I’ve quoted the conclusion below. At the end of this post you will find the link to the
- [Four Benefits of Psychiatric Diagnoses to Ministry](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/11/16/4-benefits-of-psychiatric-diagnoses-to-ministry/) - As a follow-up to yesterday’s post, 4 Problems and Pitfalls of Psychiatric Diagnoses, we’ll let Mike Emlet encourage us to think more about the psychiatric diagnoses that are now part of our world. In Chapter 9, Emlet writes, “I want to focus on the potential usefulness of psychiatric classifications at the micro-level, in the context
- [Four Problems and Pitfalls of Psychiatric Diagnoses](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/11/15/4-problems-and-pitfalls-of-psychiatric-diagnoses/) - When it comes to psychiatric diagnoses and Christians, we are typically too warm or too cold. Michael Emlet, from the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF), calls this The Goldilocks Principle. Either we are too warm (too accepting) of diagnoses, or too cold (too highly suspicious). As a biblical counselor and former practicing physician, Mike
- [You Are a Redeemed Sinner](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/13/you-are-a-redeemed-sinner/) - Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree” Galatians 3:13 Have you ever redeemed something? Have you ever bought back something valuable that once belonged to you? What sacrifice were you willing to make to get
- [Three New 31-Day Devotionals for Life](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/12/three-new-31-day-devotionals/) - Today, P&R Publishing released three new titles in their popular 31-day devotional series. PATIENCE: Waiting with Hope (Megan Hill) Do you dread being forced to wait? Does a summons to patience sound like a call to bitter endurance? It’s not. This neglected virtue is the powerful and diligent practice of godliness in daily life—we are
- [Five Assurances Charles Spurgeon was Saved](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/03/25/5-assurances-charles-spurgeon-was-saved/) - This morning, while reading a chapter in Wayne and Joshua Mack’s newest book, God’s Solutions to Life’s Problems (P&R, 2014), I was blessed by a wonderful excerpt from one of Charles Spurgeon’s sermons, “The Priest Dispensed With,” preached sometime in the late 1800s. This excerpt includes five assurances that answered, for Spurgeon, the question: “How
- [Counseled by the Puritans on Providence](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/05/29/counseled-by-the-puritans-on-providence/) - Slowly working my way through A Puritan Theology: Doctrine for Life; I was recently blown away by the tenth chapter, which is entitled “The Puritans on Providence.” I was already tired enough to go to bed, when I decided to read another chapter in this massive volume, so I wondered if there was any practical
- [Ten Tests of Genuine Faith](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/09/01/10-tests-of-genuine-faith/) - Romans 8:16 says, The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God. In other words, part of the Holy Spirit’s ministry to believers is to give assurance of salvation. Since the Holy Spirit is the divine author of Scripture, and since He wrote at least one New Testament book just
- [Freedom from Food Slavery](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/22/freedom-from-food-slavery/) - When we hear the word "slave,” we think of someone who is helpless under the power of a dominating force or influence. If you are a slave to food, your time and thoughts are devoted to eating it. It seems to have an irresistible power over you, and you give in to it repeatedly. You
- [Speak Healing Words to those Who Are Depressed](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/20/proverbs-1225-anxiety-and-depression-and-healing-speech/) - Proverbs 12:25 is remarkable in its simplicity and its depth of wisdom. It reads, Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad. Not only does the wise counselor, Solomon, teach body/soul connection, but he makes an extraordinary observation about the power of good words to minister healing grace
- [Hope & Healing for Those Hurting From Abortion](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/10/hope-healing-for-those-hurting-from-abortion/) - Healing Hearts Ministries was formed to provide biblical counsel and discipleship to individuals who suffer emotionally and spiritually from the pain, trauma, and affliction of their past. For more resources visit the website of Healing Hearts Ministries.
- [Reaping the Harvest of Walking in the Spirit](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/20/reaping-the-harvest-of-walking-in-the-spirit/) - The Christian life is not a playground; it’s a battlefield. Since we are in a war, and the world, the flesh, and the devil are always working against the Spirit’s agenda, we must get serious about sanctification, overcoming sin, and becoming like Christ. But we cannot do it without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
- [Walk by the Spirit, Not the Desires of the Flesh](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/12/walk-by-the-spirit-not-the-desires-of-the-flesh/) - “The Christian life is not a playground; it’s a battlefield.” I still remember the grey-bearded guest preacher who first spoke that sentence in a Bible college chapel service in the late 1980s. If you think the Christian life is a playground then you’ll never get serious about holiness. You’ll never really push yourself. Instead you
- [HELP! I Have Breast Cancer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/03/help-i-have-breast-cancer/) - Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, I want to remind you of a unique mini-book to help afflicted woman woman, HELP! I Have Breast Cancer, by Brenda Frields. One of the beauties of God’s wisdom is the way he uses our trials to equip us to counsel one another—just as it says in 2
- [The Christ-Centered Employee](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/23/the-christ-centered-employee/) - Viewing work from a truly Christian perspective requires that we build our thinking upon four foundation stones. A biblical theology of work rests upon the following: God was the first worker. The very first sentence of the Bible makes this clear. In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth (Gen. 1:1). In the
- ["Delight in the Word" Radio Ministry](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/04/delight-in-the-word-radio-ministry/) - Delight in the Word is a weekly outreach of Cornerstone Community Church in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. It airs weekdays at 11:30pm Eastern Time over WCRF 103.3FM – Moody Radio Cleveland. Archived programs can be accessed at the Delight in the Word website. Please help our church spread the word about this new Bible teaching program.
- [The Unsearchable Ways of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/03/the-unsearchable-ways-of-god/) - Sometimes God’s ways are hard to understand, We want to ask “Why?”—to follow His hand. Sometimes when tragedy comes from above, It tempts us to waver, to doubt His love. But God is infinitely wise and good, He is too lofty to be understood. His love is endless. His kindness is great. He is too
- [Your Tears in His Bottle](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/10/01/your-tears-in-his-bottle/) - You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book. Psalm 56:8 NLT Your tears are important to God. They must be. He collects them in a bottle. Tears are a gift from God, a means to embracing your pain, releasing
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM - Three Podcast Episodes to Consider Listening to this Weekend](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/23/nuggets-of-wisdom-three-encouraging-podcast-episodes-to-listen-to-this-weekend/) - Help! Someone I Love Has Alzheimer's Disease - Dave Jenkins interviews hospice nurse and author, Deborah Howard. Together they discuss many ways to minister grace to family members during the journey through dementia. Honesty - Alasdair Groves talks about the necessity of speaking the truth in love as he reflects on one of David Powlison's
- [NUGGETS - Family Matters [4/16/14]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/04/16/nuggets-family-matters-41614/) - Growing Up Gothard - I'm not a prophet, nor the son of a prophet, but I saw this coming when first exposed to homeschool guru Bill Gothard in Kansas City almost three decades ago. 8 Things Healthy Couples Don't Do - Here's a few habits to avoid in order to keep marriages healthy and growing.
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/21/nuggets-55/) - How Not to Help a Sufferer - "The problem with Job’s comforters isn’t that they’re heretics. Much of what they say is true. The problem is the moralistic worldview that governs their engagement with Job, and compels them to reason backward from suffering to sin." Untangling Emotions - I'm looking forward to reading this new
- [Nuggets](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/05/nuggets-74/) - Once Abused by the Church, Now I Love the Church - "I must not allow my painful story to inform me about Christ or his church. Instead, my painful story has to be informed by Christ’s good character and by his purposes for his church." CCEF Board Appoints Next Executive Director - The Board of
- [Help! I Have Parkinson's Disease (Matt Mumma)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/14/help-i-have-parkinsons-disease-matt-mumma/) - “I want to give you a few minutes to catch your breath. I’m sure that a Parkinson’s diagnosis was not what you were expecting to receive today.” After an hour-long examination, the same doctor who had diagnosed my father with Parkinson’s disease had just confirmed that, at the age of thirty-five, I had the same
- [Help! I’m Being Manipulated (Brian Sayers)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/20/help-im-being-manipulated-brian-sayers/) - Manipulation is a painful and destructive relational dynamic. As a pastor and counselor, I’ve tried to help people work through these confusing and turbulent waters. Today, much of the current literature and counsel on the topic focuses on establishing “boundaries” or getting rid of “toxic relationships” in your life. God’s ideal for his children is
- [Praying for the Destruction of Pride](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/08/06/praying-for-the-destruction-of-pride/) - O FOUNTAIN OF ALL GOOD, Destroy in me every lofty thought, Break pride to pieces and scatter it to the winds. Annihilate each clinging shred of self-righteousness, Implant in us true lowliness of spirit, Abase me to self-loathing and self-abhorrence, Open in me a fount of penitential tears, Break me, then bind me up; Thus will
- [The Admirable Patience of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/29/the-admirable-patience-of-god/) - Since my conversion to Christ in 1984, I have enjoyed and benefited from reading books about the attributes of God. I've also been drawn to the writings of the Puritans. So, a couple months ago, I purchased a little book by George Swinnock. In a short chapter entitled Patience, Swinnock begins, God is incomparable in
- [Worship the Boundless God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/24/worship-the-boundless-god/) - It's Saturday evening, so I hope you are preparing your heart to worship the boundless God, tomorrow, in the gathering of your church family. Understanding God as being without bounds should fill our worship with a measure of awe. "Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection? It
- [Your Child Doesn’t Have to Fit In to Belong (Stephanie Hubach)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/17/your-child-doesnt-have-to-fit-in-to-belong/) - I'm really excited about a new 31-day devotional for parents of kids with disabilities, from P&R Publishing, written by Stephanie Hubach. Today's post is Day 22. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and
- [Five Ways Listening Helps You Become More Gracious](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/31/5-ways-listening-helps-you-become-more-gracious/) - For the past few months, I’ve mentioned a couple times (here and here) the profit that our church staff is receiving from reading a book together, Graciousness: Tempering Truth with Love, by John Crotts. In Chapter 7, “Cultivating a Gracious Mindset Toward Others,” one section in particular recently stimulated our discussion. This section encourages us
- [Make Charitable Judgments](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/11/make-charitable-judgments/) - If you love someone, you discipline your mind to assume the best about that person's words or actions until you have the facts to prove otherwise. While such mental discipline may not seem to fit modern sentimental concepts of love, according to the Bible, love means sacrificing one's own wants to meet the needs of
- [Gospel-Empowered Forgiveness: Use the Letter of Philemon to Disciple those with an Unforgiving Spirit (Pt. 2)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/14/gospel-empowered-forgiveness-use-the-letter-of-philemon-to-disciple-those-with-an-unforgiving-spirit/) - Anger and bitterness over hurts and slights tend to grow in our hearts when they’re left unchecked. Many of us have made the mistake of simply ignoring these sinful attitudes and hoping they fade over time, but God has a radically different approach to anger and bitterness. The apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:31-32 teaches a
- [Gospel-Empowered Forgiveness: Use the Letter of Philemon to Disciple those with an Unforgiving Spirit](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/31/gospel-empowered-forgiveness-use-the-small-letter-of-philemon-to-disciple-those-with-an-unforgiving-spirit/) - Anger and bitterness over hurts and slights tend to grow in our hearts when they’re left unchecked. Many of us have made the mistake of simply ignoring these sinful attitudes and hoping they fade over time, but God has a radically different approach to anger and bitterness. The apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:31-32 teaches a
- [Ten Questions to Diagnose Your Spiritual Health](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/13/ten-questions-to-diagnose-your-spiritual-health/) - Last week, our church's men's and women's ministries kicked off a new ministry year with their first monthly meetings. Spiritual disciplines is the theme the ministry leaders chose as this year's focus. One of the key resources being used to organize the Bible teaching is Don Whitney's book Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life. The
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (September 9)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/09/nuggets-of-wisdom-11/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). FREE AUDIO BOOK FOR SEPTEMBER - Humility by Andrew Murray is on my top ten list of books every
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (August 31)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/31/nuggets-of-wisdom-8-31-2021/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). What Does the Bible Say About Being a Busybody? - Some people have difficulty recognizing themselves as busybodies, so
- [Six Categories in Proverbs](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/03/6-categories-in-proverbs/) - The book of Proverbs contains abundant wisdom from God, primarily through King Solomon's instruction to his son. The other authors include Agur (Ch. 30) and King Lemuel (Ch. 31). Yesterday, in one of the plenary sessions at the ACBC annual conference, my good friend Lance Quinn preached a great sermon on the value of Proverbs
- [7 Reasons to Study Theology](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/08/24/7-reasons-to-study-theology/) - Every person is a theologian. Due to the fact that we've been created in the image of God with a conscience stirred by an innate God-consciousness, we all have an interest in theology. Theology is what we think about God, which then determines what we think about ourselves and how we live in relation to
- [Help Your Child Appreciate Being Made in God's Image](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/07/help-your-child-appreciate-being-made-in-gods-image/) - God Made Me in His Image is a new hardcover children's book from Justin and Lindsey Holcomb and another discipleship tool for parents from New Growth Press. The subtitle, Helping Children Appreciate Their Bodies, adequately explains their goal. Because bodies can be confusing and sometimes embarrassing to children, the Holcombs have placed a tool in the
- [Six New LifeLine Mini-Books Available for Pre-Order](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/07/six-new-lifeline-mini-books-available-for-pre-order/) - As the series editor for the LifeLine mini-books, it's a joy to let you know that six more titles are now available for pre-order from Shepherd Press. 10:00 A.M. UPDATE: Shepherd Press just notified me that they have extended their Labor Day sale to September 11th. It is 20% off, site wide, even pre-orders. The
- [Eight Means to Reaching God-Honoring Goals in Parenting](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/08/06/eight-means-to-reaching-god-honoring-goals-in-parenting/) - Jim Newheiser and Elyse Fitzpatrick have contributed a significant resource to the wealth of literature currently available to Christian parents. In their excellent book, You Never Stop Being a Parent: Thriving in Relationship with Your Adult Children, they provide sound, mature counsel to all parents whose goal is simply to be God’s instrument of directing
- [A Recent Interview on the Janet Mefferd Show](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/02/a-recent-interview-on-the-janet-mefferd-show/) - Earlier this week, it was a joy to talk to Janet Mefferd about my newest book When Disability Hits Home. You may listen to the archived program below (interview starts about 22 minutes in). When Disability Hits Home is available from Westminster Bookstore and Shepherd Press.
- [From Slavery to Sonship](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/09/02/from-slavery-to-sonship/) - The Christian has undergone a radical change. It is a movement from slavery to sonship (Gal. 4:7; cf. Rom. 8:16; Gal. 3:26). It is a change in status---from being children of wrath to being adopted “children of God” (1 John 3:1). It is a change of nature---from being orphaned sinners to being regenerated members of
- [Prayer Puts Things In Perspective](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/23/prayer-puts-things-in-perspective/) - On a recent trip Barb and I visited a beautiful property. One of the features on the grounds was a huge hedge maze consisting of lots of misleading turns and dead ends. It would really be easy to get lost in there. At the maze we visited, as at most similar mazes elsewhere, there was
- [“Men of Iron” Small Group Strategy](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/08/14/men-of-iron-small-group-strategy/) - [Today's post was originally written for the Biblical Counseling Coalition website.] According to Proverbs 27:17, “Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” Because healthy, balanced, and biblical growth as Christians takes place when we are an active part of the community of believers, the local church, our particular assembly began a men’s small group
- [A Brief Word About Anxiety Medication](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/20/a-brief-word-about-anxiety-medication/) - What is the place of medication for anxiety or depression in the life of a Christian? Is it a sin to take medication to help me through a valley of emotional turmoil? If I decide to take medication for a limited time, does it mean I'm a failure or a "bad" Christian? Does it mean
- [It's Not Too Late - Gospel Hope for Parents](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/08/its-not-too-late/) - There is more than one explanation for broken relationships between parents and children. Sometimes the most diligent and careful parenting cannot curb the rebellious bent of a child’s heart. It’s Not Too Late: Restoring Restoring Broken Relationships with Teenage and Adult Children is a new book from Margy Tripp, which identifies the most common reasons
- [NUGGETS OF WISDOM (8/26/2021)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/26/nuggets-of-wisdom-8-26-2021/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God’s Word to one another. “Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold” (Prov. 3:14). A Prayer for Afghanistan - Many in our congregation commented on how much it meant when I used this
- [We Are Called to Believe and Obey God’s Word Before Our Emotions Agree](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/26/we-are-called-to-believe-and-obey-gods-word-before-our-emotions-agree/) - Too often we worship at the throne of our feelings. We are far more prone to say, “This is how I feel, therefore, I will do…,” rather than, “This is what I think because the Bible says…” Today’s emotion-driven Christianity desperately needs the wisdom of this prayer from the Puritan age: Lord, help me to
- [Our Suffering Profits Us and Benefits Others](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/23/our-suffering-benefits-others/) - Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake… Colossians 1:24 The apostle Paul rejoiced in his sufferings because he knew that God was using them to produce growth in his own life through the experience of receiving divine comfort, which would then touch the lives of those whom he served. Writing to the Corinthians,
- [The Holy Spirit Is Praying for You](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/06/the-holy-spirit-is-praying-for-you/) - We need God’s grace in our times of weakness. But we also need the Spirit to pray for us because our knowledge is not complete—we are ignorant of some things. Matthew Henry writes, “We are not competent judges of our own condition … We are short-sighted, and very much biased in favour of the flesh,
- [Two Opposing Narratives of Race in America](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/01/two-opposing-narratives-of-race-in-america/) - Racism is a great and ever-present evil. As followers of Jesus, we must forcefully resist it in all its terrible forms. We must uphold the truth that all people, regardless of skin-color, ethnicity, sex, or socio-economic status, are made in God’s image and likeness, with inherent worth and dignity. This is particularly important for those
- [NUGGETS - 8/20/2021](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/20/nuggets-8-20-2021/) - Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you grow in grace and truth as you minister God's Word to one another. "Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold" (Prov. 3:14). Mom Guilt and the God Who Sees - Moms, you are under the gaze of a loving, kind Father.
- [Four Gracious Critiques of "The Five Love Languages"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/12/four-gracious-critiques-of-the-five-love-languages/) - Gary Chapman's Five Love Languages has sold over 13 million copies over the past almost-thirty years, making it one of the most popular Christianized self-help books ever. But how biblical is its message? How consistent is its counsel with the gospel, the message of the cross and Jesus's call to self-denial? Over the years, I've
- [NUGGETS - Grief & Loss](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/06/25/nuggets-grief-loss/) - The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. - Psalm 34:18 Westminster Books currently has a limited quantity of my grief devotional at 50% off. Get A Small Book for the Hurting Heart before they're gone. Grief Diary 6: The Value of Grief - I've often shared this resource from
- [The Power of Counting It All Joy](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/21/the-power-of-counting-it-all-joy/) - Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:2-4) Joy is a state of mind, not a feeling. Joy is peaceful
- [How to Become a Citizen of Heaven](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/09/13/how-to-become-a-citizen-of-heaven/) - A passport is a powerful document. It certifies a person’s citizenship and carries authority to travel to foreign countries. While visiting other countries as a guest, your citizenship remains, along with a certain amount of protection that your country’s government promises to its citizens. And when it’s time to come home your passport guarantees your
- [God Is Glorified in His Gospel of Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/24/god-is-glorified-in-his-gospel-of-grace/) - The good news of salvation through Jesus Christ is first for the glory of God, and then for the good of man. The gospel shines light upon the mercy, love, and grace of God in ways that creation could never do. This is partly what the apostle Paul means when he writes in Ephesians 2:4-8
- [Learning to Be Full](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/07/30/learning-to-be-full/) - One of the apostle Paul’s most famous declarations is this: “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry,
- [A Domestic Abuse Primer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/07/07/a-domestic-abuse-primer/) - Dear friend, This has been an awful week for you, I know. Learning about the abuse that your friend has endured for well over a decade (which you also suspected for just as long, but could never prove) is a burden you feel you cannot bear. Your heart is so heavy; it feels like it's
- [How Long Does Grieving Take?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/11/how-long-does-grieving-take-2/) - How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? Psalm 13:1–2 Loss is not always sudden, like it was for Job (Job 1:13–19). Sometimes it is gradual. Sometimes
- [RERUN - 6 Reasons to Be a Faithful Member of a Local Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/31/rerun-6-reasons-to-be-a-faithful-member-of-a-local-church/) - It is our conviction that every Christian should be an active member of a Bible-teaching local church. As believers in Christ, we are members of His body and must discipline ourselves to be actively involved in ministry as a way of life. Here are some specific reasons why you should be a committed member of
- [Three Qualities of Grace-Filled Giving](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/09/3-qualities-of-grace-filled-giving/) - “It is more blessed to give than it is to receive," Jesus said. The Apostle Paul quoted these words to the Ephesian elders while reminding them of his own pattern of personal sacrifice on behalf of God’s church (Acts 20:35). This simple statement from the lips of the Son of God serves as a concise
- [Suffering In 3-D](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/05/22/suffering-in-3-d/) - As Christians, we are not to walk alone in our suffering, or inadvertently force others to deal with personal suffering on their own. The church, as a spiritual hospital, the family of God, and a discipleship culture, is to be one-minded and spiritually passionate about its charge to connect to those who suffer in the
- ['Comfort the Grieving' Is Now Available in Spanish](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/04/comfort-the-grieving-is-now-available-in-spanish/) - In 2015, Zondervan published Comfort the Grieving: Ministering God's Grace in Times of Loss as part of the seven-volume essential Practical Shepherding series edited by Brian Croft. Over the years, it's been humbling and rewarding to hear of how the Lord is using this series to equip experienced elders, pastors, and deacons as well as
- [Ten Qualities to Look for When Choosing a Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/06/14/10-qualities-to-look-for-when-choosing-a-church/) - "In nearly twenty years of working at a biblical counseling center," writes Jim Newheiser, "I have observed that the single greatest impediment to our counselees making progress is their lack of a proper relationship with a solid biblical church. Sometimes the fault is with the local church which fails to shepherd and, if necessary, discipline
- [Scripture Keeps You Stable In a Pinball World](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/08/02/scripture-keeps-you-stable-in-a-pinball-world/) - When I was a kid the real joy of of going to the pizza parlor was getting to play pinball. That steel ball would be shot out of the plunger, then bounce all over, banging against the bumpers only to be slapped by the flippers, shooting it this way and that way. Sometimes the Christian
- [Saving and Transforming Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/07/08/saving-and-transforming-grace/) - The Christian life is a life of grace. It begins with God saving us by His grace. It continues with God sanctifying us by His grace. And it will end—with the full redemption of our souls and bodies—by God’s grace. But this runs across the grain of man’s nature. It swims against the flow of
- [Wash Away Your Old Ways of Thinking](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/29/wash-away-your-old-ways-of-thinking/) - I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will
- [31 Days to Hope](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/28/31-days-to-hope/) - The latest addition to the 31-day Devotionals for Life series is one I've already recommended to individuals twice this week. Hope: Living Confidently in God by John Crotts is rich with biblical encouragement to build your faith and set the eyes of your heart on Christ. Take a look at this Table of Contents. The
- [Jesus Knows the Pain of Betrayal More than Anyone](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/09/jesus-knows-the-pain-of-betrayal-more-than-anyone/) - Betrayal began in the Garden of Eden. Actually, technically speaking, betrayal began in the angelic realm first—when Lucifer rebelled against God, and took an army of angels with him. Lucifer, the most glorious of all the angels whom God created, became prideful and fell. He betrayed God. Betrayed his Creator. So his name was changed
- [Does Romans 13:8 Teach It Is a Sin to Borrow Money?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/01/10/does-romans-138-teach-it-is-a-sin-to-borrow-money/) - [Last week, I posted a personal testimony about the progress my wife and I are making as we work to eliminate long-standing debt we incurred over a period of many years, which had significantly crippled us. Today, I am publishing an article I wrote to my congregation in 2006. Originally, it was written because our
- [You Are Called to Suffer with Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/16/you-are-called-to-suffer-with-christ/) - For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:21 One of our daughters recently asked why it seems our family suffers more than other people she knows who do not follow the Lord. “Sometimes,” she said,
- [Jesus Restores after Massive Sin [John Crotts]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/23/jesus-restores-after-massive-sin-john-crotts/) - When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” John 21:15 Does it seem like Jesus leaves you alone in your fights sometimes? You
- [Suffering Serves the Saints (Brian S. Borgman)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/12/suffering-serves-the-saints-brian-s-borgman/) - "What we go through, we go through not only for ourselves, but for others, serving as an example and encouragement to others. Suffering serves the saints." This is the theme of Psalm 119:73-80, according to Brian Borgman, the author of An Exile's Guide to Walking with God: Meditations on Psalm 119, a new book that
- [Four Implications of Being Risen with Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/03/26/4-implications-of-being-risen-with-christ/) - The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the well from which the fountain of new life springs. Those who are united to Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection possess this new living water in their innermost being (Jn 7:38). This is the reason believers have an internal longing, a craving, a powerful, and unquenchable desire
- [To Take Away the Weeds of the Work We Do](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/07/14/to-take-away-the-weeds-of-the-work-we-do/) - Lord Jesus, our great high priest, surely you are faithful. Surely you will do the work of the high priest for my soul. I have sinned, and sinned greatly. But Lord, it is the work of our high priest to clear my debt. Now, Lord Jesus, I come to you as my high priest. Resolve
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/24/nuggets-29/) - Spring Sports and Sunday Church - "...there’s no doubt that amateur athletics have claimed a central place in the pantheon of our culture’s false gods, and youth athletics is a further subset of the idolization of children." The Film You Have Been Waiting For: PURITAN - "The Puritans were burning and shining lights…. Their works
- [Jesus Got Angry At Death](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/19/jesus-got-angry-at-death/) - When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. And he said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” Jesus wept. (John 11:33-35) God is not put off by your grief. The shortest
- [Three Common Excuses We Make for Not Meditating on Scripture](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/22/3-common-reasons-excuses-why-we-dont-meditate-on-scripture/) - Last week, I finished reading God’s Battle Plan for the Mind: The Puritan Practice of Biblical Meditation. Essentially, what the author David Saxton has done is collect and organize what many Puritan pastors and theologians believed and taught in regard to meditating on the Scriptures. Near the end of the book, in the chapter entitled
- [The Indispensable Discipline of Meditation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/20/the-indispensable-discipline-of-meditation/) - You are what you think, believe, and desire. That’s a truism we all need to understand. It’s true, not because we have observed it to be so, but because it is the way God designed us to function. Proverbs 4:23 says it this way: Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the
- [The Cycle of Temptation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/02/28/the-cycle-of-temptation/) - When Eve succumbed to the craftiness of the serpent, she gave in to all three major categories of temptation, as described in 1 John 2:16. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.
- [Understanding Three Phases of Salvation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/03/understanding-three-phases-of-salvation/) - In order to know where you are in the Christian life you need to know where you have been and where you are going. To make progress in Christ you need to understand the three phases of salvation. If you want to make measurable progress in Christ take time to listen to the sermon by
- [Five Blessings from Ten Years of Blogging](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/06/30/five-blessings-from-ten-years-of-blogging/) - June marked ten years of blogging for me; it’s hard to believe a decade has gone by since I began. When I first thought of launching a blog, I was clueless, so I reached out to two Christian brothers for help. One was a new friend I’d made through a publishing contact, since we were
- [Stop Pretending--Cry Out to God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/06/25/stop-pretending-cry-out-to-god/) - Where do you go when unknown dangers threaten the well-being of your faith? Who do you turn to when loneliness threatens to swallow you alive—and whole—like a thick storm cloud envelops your house? What do you do when the chastening, training hand of God seems so overwhelmingly crushing that you fear you will not survive
- [How to Prepare for Sunday Worship](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/11/25/preparing-for-sunday/) - When we reflect on Hebrews 12:18-29 it's obvious that God considers corporate worship a serious matter, not the game that the modern church so often plays. Take a few minutes to open your Bible and read that portion of God’s Word. If God, who is “a consuming fire,” receives worship from sinners like you and
- [How Come No One Is Talking About 1 Timothy 3:6?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/08/how-come-no-one-is-talking-about-1-timothy-36/) - News articles and blog posts about Joshua Harris’s departure from the Christian faith abound, but I’m concerned about a distinct omission. I’m certain I’ve not had time to read every article, but so far something pretty important seems to be missing. Why is no one talking about the Church’s part in all of this? Surely
- [Trust In the Lord with All Your Heart](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/06/24/trust-in-the-lord-with-all-your-heart/) - Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. (Prov. 3:5) Trusting God is something that Christians talk about a lot, and yet we tend to view it as optional. There are times when we trust God and times when we don’t, and we think that this is
- [3 Typical Steps to Spiritual Decline](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/09/04/3-typical-steps-to-spiritual-decline/) - The downward spiral of sin is a consistent pattern in human beings. Therefore, we must heed the warnings of Scripture to stay close to the Lord, walk in His ways, and keep short accounts with Him. Every one of us is susceptible to spiritual decline. Unfortunately, this decline is sometimes not recognized by the person
- [Grace Erased $3,185.28](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/10/30/grace-erased-3185-28/) - God knows we are forgetful people, even as Christians. Therefore, He is gracious to bring to our minds---over and over again---the abundance of His grace toward us in Jesus Christ, our Lord. The other day, when I returned home from work there was an envelope waiting to be opened. The return address informed me that
- [When Panic Attacks Me (Broken Heart Syndrome)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/02/05/broken-heart-syndrome/) - [NOTE: This article was originally posted July 12, 2013. Since then it was updated and published in October 2019, as part of the Introduction to the 31-day devotional, Anxiety: Knowing God’s Peace. Here it is, as an excerpt of that Introduction.] Six years ago, I could not have written this book. I was a prisoner.
- [Why I've Been Blogging Less Frequently](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/03/11/why-ive-been-blogging-less-frequently/) - Some of you may have noticed that my blogging has been less frequent lately and that recent posts have included reruns. The long and short of it is that I've been running on fumes. Last year was a year of great blessing for our family, as the Lord made it possible to become homeowners again.
- [You Are a Saint by Calling](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/05/19/you-are-a-saint-by-calling/) - To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours.1 Cor. 1:2 In the religious tradition that I grew up in a saint is
- [The Joy of Sacrificial Service](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/06/17/the-joy-of-sacrificial-service/) - The Christian life—when properly understood—is a life of sacrifice. Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit
- [What Kind of Fool?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/12/19/what-kind-of-fool/) - When I was in the 11th, grade Barbra Streisand and Barry Gibb asked this question as they sang one of their popular duets. It's a good question to ask. The book of Proverbs has more to say about fools/foolishness than any other book of the Bible. There we find abundant counsel to help us discern
- [A Resource for Parents and Counselors of Youth](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/02/18/a-resource-for-parents-and-counselors-of-youth/) - Last week, I was pleased to receive a review copy of the just-released, updated and revised edition of Keith & Patricia Miller's Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling Youth. From abortion to worry this helpful resource addresses 129 subjects---providing biblical counsel for parents and counselors of youth. Topics include many common temptations and sin struggles including:
- [Nine Lame Ways to Tell Your Child to Take the Garbage Out](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/04/04/9-lame-ways-to-tell-your-child-to-take-the-garbage-out/) - This past weekend, I had the joy of teaching a parenting seminar at our church entitled Engaging the Hearts of Our Kids. One of the resources that I recommended to those in attendance is Everyday Talk by John Younts. There are many strengths to this book, which is subtitled "Talking Freely and Naturally about God
- [What Tolerating Temper Tantrums Reveals about Parents](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/10/11/what-tolerating-temper-tantrums-reveals-about-parents/) - The primary duty of Christian parents is to take a natural-born fool and cause him or her to be filled with the wisdom of God. Perhaps this statement startles you, but let me explain what I mean by it. Unselfishness in parenting means that we must lay aside our self-interest and love of convenience in
- [Gender as a Spectrum - Moral Chaos for Children](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/13/gender-as-a-spectrum-moral-chaos-for-children/) - [Today's guest post is written by Jay Younts, author of Everyday Talk about Sex and Marriage, and is re-posted here with permission.] The January 2017 issue of National Geographic examines the issue of gender. The editor of the magazine believes gender is not an issue of male and female, but that gender is best understood
- [Everyday Talk about Sex and Marriage, Part 1](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/20/everyday-talk-about-sex-and-marriage-part-1/) - This past weekend, our church was blessed to host a very important conference we called Redeeming the Gift: God’s Design for Sexuality. To help us present the topic in a manner that was biblical and practical in application to every believer we invited two faithful Bible teachers to join us, Tim Challies and Jay Younts.
- [Everyday Talk about Sex and Marriage, Part 2](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/21/everyday-talk-about-sex-and-marriage-part-2/) - Any conversation with your children about sex and marriage would be incomplete without discussing sexual attraction. This topic often lacks biblical clarity for Christians because it is most commonly discussed outside its biblical context. The Bible is clear: sex is reserved for marriage. If one is attracted to sexual activity, that attraction can be pleasing
- [HELP! My Kids Are Viewing Pornography](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/03/09/help-my-kids-are-viewing-pornography/) - “I hear it so often: 'Help! My kids are looking at porn!' Not long ago, one mom wrote to say that she and her husband had allowed their preteen boys access to the Internet to play a video game, thinking they had taught and trained the boys well enough to resist whatever temptation they might
- [When should a child be baptized or participate in the Lord’s Supper?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/03/24/when-should-a-child-be-baptized-or-participate-in-the-lords-supper/) - All Christian parents long for their children to trust in Christ and to make their profession of faith public. It's not surprising that children raised in Christian homes sooner or later will ask a parent, “When can I be baptized?" The same question is often asked regarding communion – "When can I take the Lord’s Supper?"
- [Raising Teens in a Hyper-Sexualized World](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/04/raising-teens-in-a-hyper-sexualized-world/) - Raising Teens in a Hyper-Sexualized World is a simple, 45-page book that gives parents immediate help. The author, Eliza Huie, is a parent and Christian counselor who takes us through, practically, how to walk with our teens in the midst of this hyper–sexualized world. This book is for parents who need help right now. It
- [3 Disastrous Dating Mistakes: Learning from Samson’s Bad Example](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/11/3-disastrous-dating-mistakes-learning-from-samsons-bad-example/) - One way of learning how to do something is by watching someone else do it poorly. When I swam in triathlons, I had a friend who worked out in the same pool. In his freestyle stroke, he had a habit of putting his hand in the water too far toward the centerline of his body,
- [Raising Kids in a Screen-Saturated World](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/08/04/raising-kids-in-a-screen-saturated-world/) - Our lives are influenced by technology like never before. Screens and devices have become a part of our daily lives bringing many benefits, as well as challenges – not least to the area of parenting. Our kids are digital natives, never having known a world that wasn’t saturated with screens, their knowledge and experience rapidly
- [5 Tips for Parenting in a Screen-Saturated World](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/08/06/5-tips-for-parenting-in-a-screen-saturated-world/) - "Living in a screen-saturated world means our use of screens can either help us or hinder us in our call to love God and others." So writes Eliza Huie in the Introduction to her latest book, Raising Kids in a Screen-Saturated World. She continues, "We must also consider how we use our freedoms with technology
- [The Dirty Dozen of Unbiblical Parenting](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/10/15/the-dirty-dozen-of-unbiblical-parenting/) - *This is the fourth, and final, post from Counsel with Confidence by Joel James. In family counseling, you will encounter many unbiblical approaches to parenting. Some common ones to keep your eyes open for are listed below. Permissiveness. Parents who follow this strategy never tell their children No, Stop, or Don’t do that. Antagonist. Every
- [Is Everyone Awesome?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/12/27/is-everyone-awesome/) - From almost every angle (movies, TV, YouTube, school) our kids are receiving the same basic message. They hear that every child is his or her own independent, self-sufficient, self-directed, self-governing person. Like a scratched vinyl record, the world expresses related mantras: You're awesome!Be who you are on the inside.Listen to your heart.You can do it!
- [Teach Your Kids that God Is Awesome](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/24/teach-your-kids-god-is-awesome/) - “Awesome” is one word which has become so commonplace it is at risk of losing its punch. Today, it’s used to describe anything from a chef’s pizza to an artist’s portrait, a baseball team’s double play to a restaurant’s double cheeseburger. For this reason, day in and day out, it’s not unusual for our kids
- [The 7 Laws of Correction](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/12/the-7-laws-of-correction/) - The book of Proverbs unmistakably calls for the physical discipline of children, that is, spanking, as a necessary part of wise and effective parenting. For instance: He who withholds his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently. Proverbs 13:24 This verse alone refutes the incorrect thinking of some who conclude,
- [Four Illustrated Books that I'm Giving to My Young Grandchildren this Christmas](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/18/four-picture-books-that-im-giving-to-my-young-grandchildren-this-christmas/) - For thirty-two consecutive Christmases, I've purchased a book for each of my children. Now, I enjoy doing the same for my grandchildren. So, for this year, here's what I've purchased so far. Check 'em out. God Made Me Unique - This little book introduces young children to the heart of God toward those with special
- [Equipping for Life: A Guide for New, Aspiring, & Struggling Parents](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/08/equipping-for-life-a-guide-for-new-aspiring-struggling-parents/) - What’s the goal of parenting? is the most important question parents should ask, but, sadly, that is not always the case. “Truth be told,” the authors write, “many—even those who have been parents for many years—never take time to formulate their parenting goals or reflect on their parenting philosophy….many of us ‘fall’ into parenting (as
- [WEEK 5: Singing with Your Family](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/06/05/week-5-singing-with-your-family/) - Deuteronomy 6:5-7 commands parents to instill biblical truth into their children's hearts and minds as part of the normal rhythm of life. Therefore, the fifth chapter of SING! How Worship Transforms You Life, Family, and Church aims to help and exhort parents to follow this command. Worship at Home Strengthens Worship at Church "The church
- [Your Responses During COVID-19 Will Influence Your Children and Grandchildren in Ways You Might Someday Regret and Hope They Will Forget](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/07/28/parent-your-responses-during-covid-19-will-influence-your-children-in-ways-you-might-someday-regret-and-hope-they-will-forget/) - This strange time we’re living in will likely shape many things in your children’s life… most notably their hearts. However, it is not actually living during this pandemic that will shape them, but more importantly it’s how they and you respond to our current situation that will do much to shape their hearts. That’s why
- [Children with Disabilities are a Gift from the Lord](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/23/children-with-disabilities-are-a-gift-from-the-lord/) - *Today's article is written by Dave and Nancy Deuel, and is drawn from their new mini-book, Help! My Child has a Disability. It was a busy time in our lives. Dave tells the story. We had gotten married, and I had finished school and taken my first teaching job. We had moved from the East
- [The Silent Pain and Secret Shame In Our Churches](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/18/the-silent-pain-and-secret-shame-in-our-churches/) - Whether you’re aware of it or not, there is silent pain and secret shame in your church. Cheerful greetings are exchanged each Sunday morning. The “How are you?” greeting is politely met with “Fine” or the more daring “I’ve been better,” hoping the inquirer will not delve any deeper. But underneath some of these “all-is-well”
- [The Key to Spiritual Fruitfulness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/03/24/the-key-to-spiritual-fruitfulness/) - When God saves our soul he doesn’t intend for us to just coast to Glory. Jesus didn’t go to the cross to simply purchase our ticket to Paradise. For the rest of our days, God calls us to bear spiritual fruit. And not just a little; we’re to bear much fruit. When we bear much
- [Remorse or Repentance?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/09/08/remorse-or-repentance/) - Concerning the ministry of confrontation, which sometimes results in church discipline, please allow me to commend to you the best book I've read on the subject. It is clear, concise (80 pages), practical, loving, and biblically faithful. In Pursuit of Prodigals: A Primer on Church Discipline and Reconciliation, by pastor Stephen Davey, should be read
- [True Praise Flows Out of True Worship](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/15/true-praise-flows-out-of-true-worship/) - Praise is one of the most consistent commands found in the book of Psalms. Another name for this book is the Psalter. It is the Hebrew hymnbook. It is the only collection of songs inspired by the Holy Spirit himself and, therefore, is part of our Scriptures. The Hebrew title basically means The Book of
- [Four Words that Help Us to Define Counseling](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/05/12/4-words-that-help-us-define-counseling/) - The New Testament uses four different words to emphasize the more concentrated aspect of disciple-making that we call counseling. The meanings and uses of these words help us to envision a well-rounded ministry that is geared toward helping people change. Parakaleo -- First, according to Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, the
- [Study Philippians with Me](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/05/07/study-philippians-with-me/) - In a world filled with far too much complaining and negativity, how refreshing it is to receive a letter filled with encouragement! As believers, we need regular encouragement to refresh us in our souls, and to give us renewed motivation to press on in the fight of faith! Paul’s letter to the Philippians is filled
- [How I Begin the First Counseling Session](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/04/16/how-i-begin-a-counseling-session/) - It is common for people to ask how to begin the very first counseling session (informal or formal). For what it’s worth, here’s what I do. Direct them to God as Helper. I begin by thanking the person for showing a desire to seek God’s help for their particular struggle. I assure them that I
- [Pursue Peace by Dealing with Conflict Biblically](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/04/23/pursue-peace-by-dealing-with-conflict-biblically/) - A substantial part of growing toward maturity in Christ is learning to recognize, resist, and repent of the hidden desires of our hearts. Therefore, when we experience conflict it is essential to look beneath outward circumstances and verbal exchanges to the inner workings of the heart. Earlier this month, I taught at our monthly men's
- [Approaching Disability with Care](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/04/21/approaching-disability-with-care/) - Each month, our church's Women's Ministry produces a short video to encourage the women in our church. In this edition, my wife share's how you can help your children to cultivate a heart for those with disabilities.
- [Four Privileges of Adoption in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/03/01/4-privileges-of-adoption-in-christ/) - The doctrine of the believer’s adoption into God’s family is rich with assurance of the continuing love and commitment of the Heavenly Father. We may define adoption this way: Adoption is the gracious act of God by which He places the believer in Jesus Christ into His family, giving him the full rights and privileges
- [Peacemaking in the Home](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/15/peacemaking-in-the-home/) - When two sinners marry one another, conflict is inevitable. The important question is: How will you handle it when it shows up? If there is anything we must learn in order to foster a peaceful and joyful marriage, we must learn how to work through our conflicts biblically and learn how to reduce future conflicts. In
- [Why Did God Kill Jesus?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/04/12/why-did-god-kill-jesus-2/) - When the Old Testament prophet Isaiah predicted the suffering of Jesus Christ he said, “But the Lord was pleased to crush Him, putting Him to grief” (53:10). Why? Why would God the Father be pleased to kill His only begotten Son? The verse goes on to answer that question, “If He would render Himself as
- [Five Reasons I Love Being an ACBC Fellow](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/02/25/5-reasons-i-love-being-an-acbc-fellow/) - The Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC) is an organization that I've been pleased to be part of for many years; first, as a conference attendee, then a certified counselor, and currently a teaching fellow. ACBC has a rich, 40-year history of involvement in the training and certification of men and women who love Jesus
- [Blessed to Be a Blessing: The Importance of Women Discipling Women](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/03/30/blessed-to-be-a-blessing-the-importance-of-women-discipling-women/) - In this recent episode of Revive Our Hearts' testimony-rich feature they call "Blessed to be a Blessing" three women are interviewed. Together, through three very unique testimonies, we see how God works through His Word as women love one another within the life of the local church. This episode is especially dear to me, since
- [The Bridge Illustration Video](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/03/22/the-bridge-illustration-video/) - I came to know Christ in the spring of 1984 through a home Bible study in the Gospel of John. Shortly thereafter, our small group transitioned to a discipleship study using the Navigators 2:7 Series. In the course of that 18-month study, I learned how to use the Bridge Illustration to explain the gospel to
- [Why Is It Unwise to Lend, Borrow or Cosign Among Family and Close Friends? – Part 2](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/03/18/why-is-it-unwise-to-lend-borrow-or-cosign-among-family-and-close-friends-part-2/) - Today's post is the third and final post in this series from Jim Newheiser's new book, Money, Debt, and Finances. What Should You Say When They Ask? When a family member or friend approaches you asking you to cosign or to borrow money, you are probably under a lot of pressure. You need to make
- [Why Is It Unwise to Lend, Borrow or Cosign Among Family and Close Friends? – Part 1](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/03/17/why-is-it-unwise-to-lend-borrow-or-cosign-among-family-and-close-friends-part-1/) - There is no aspect of personal finances which poses greater risk to relationships than money matters among family and close friends. Family members who are in need often approach relatives who are better off asking for a loan. A brother who can’t get a car loan may ask you to be a cosigner so that
- [Ten Principles of Biblical Wisdom About Money, Debt, and Finances](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/03/16/ten-principles-of-biblical-wisdom-about-money-debt-and-finances/) - “Many financial problems, for individuals, corporations and nations, are caused by violating basic principles of biblical wisdom.” So writes Jim Newheiser, biblical counselor and former financial consultant, in his brand new book Money, Debt, and Finances: Critical Questions and Answers. In forty concise chapters, Jim presents financial wisdom that is grounded in faithful biblical exegesis
- [The Meekness of Wisdom](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/07/11/the-meekness-of-wisdom/) - The difference between godly wisdom and worldly wisdom is the difference between righteousness and unrighteousness, heaven and hell, God and Satan. The contrast is that great. Yet God has made His wisdom readily available to those who seek for it. In the book of Proverbs, King Solomon personifies wisdom as a woman calling out to
- [Punishment or Pruning?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/06/02/punishment-or-pruning/) - While meditating on John 15:1-8 the past few mornings, it has occurred to me that our interpretation of the sanctifying work that God accomplishes in the Christian’s life—especially during times of trial—is directly related to our understanding of pruning, which in turn affects our response to our own suffering and to others to whom we
- [Hope + Help for Panic Attacks with Lucy Ann Moll](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/03/12/hope-help-for-panic-attacks-with-lucy-ann-moll/) - In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, Christine Chappell interviews Lucy Ann Moll about her mini-book, Help! I Get Panic Attacks.
- [What about Restitution?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/01/30/what-about-restitution/) - In the past few weeks, we visited the book of Philemon twice. There we learned of what true, gospel-motivated forgiveness looks like in both heart and actions. One of the actions we saw modeled by the apostle is restitution. Restitution is the act of restoring something lost or stolen, and to compensate for injury or
- [Quit Your Grumbling and Complaining](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/03/03/quit-your-grumbling-and-complaining/) - We are by nature complainers. We live in a whining world. The whole world is whining. Grumbling and complaining are certainly not new problems. In numerous examples in the Old Testament books of Exodus and Numbers, the Israelites bitterly complained against God and against Moses in the wilderness. They had much better food when they
- [Heavy Trials Test Our Strength and Endurance](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/06/heavy-trials-test-our-strength-and-endurance/) - A few weeks ago, we had our first real snowstorm of the season. One of our neighbors said it was the most damaging snowfall they experienced on their property in the 37 years they’ve lived there. Our generator ran for three days, and we’re still picking up branches here and there on our property. Twenty-four
- [Be Ready for the Lord's Return](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/19/be-ready-for-the-lords-return/) - Since the time that Jesus ascended into heaven, there have been people who have predicted the month, year, or even the day that He will return. But no knows when Jesus will come again. Jesus himself said, “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the
- [The Refiner's Fire](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/29/the-refiners-fire/) - God ordains trials to test the reality of our faith in a way that's similar to the process of purifying precious metals. Gold, for example, is purified through a process of high temperature heating or chemical exposure. According to Sciencing, an online magazine, “If the gold is a low grade ore, then it is broken
- [In Pursuit of Christian Womanhood](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/05/16/in-pursuit-of-christian-womanhood/) - Making disciples is the work of the church. Jesus made that clear. But how do we make disciples? As we read the New Testament we see this pattern: We make disciples by coming alongside one another in the lifelong pursuit of becoming like our Savior. In other words, the work of discipleship takes place chiefly
- [How to Take Communion](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/02/06/how-to-take-communion/) - Imagine the Lord Jesus Christ is in attendance when we gather in our churches for worship. Imagine he listens to us sing and pray, and peers into our hearts. I wonder, would He find us prepared to take Communion? Or does He know that some of us walk into church quite flippantly, as if it
- [Nuggets: Quarantine Temptations](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/22/nuggets-quarantine-temptations/) - Help for Quarantined Marriages - As we all navigate uncharted waters—with plans, routines, and expectations being turned on their head—it’s important that we acknowledge the temptations and challenges that will naturally arise in our marriages if we aren’t proactively reminding ourselves of the truth. Here are three key truths to remember in the days ahead.
- [Trusting God in Times of Crisis](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/15/trusting-god-in-times-of-crisis/) - The world is shaken, taken off guard and turned upside down by a microscopic virus that doubles the number of its victims every six days. It began only three months ago, but has now infected over 152,000, with the number rising every day. As a result, many people wonder if there is any place on
- [We Must Work Out Our Own Salvation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/11/we-must-work-out-our-own-salvation/) - Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.Philippians 2:12-13 At some point in our
- [Jesus: Healer of Body and Soul](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/05/18/jesus-healer-of-body-and-soul/) - Preaching through the Gospel of Luke is proving to be of much personal benefit to me and to our church. I chose the account of Luke, the physician and historian, because he presents Jesus in the fullness of His humanity—as the compassionate Son of Man who knows our weaknesses and carries our sorrows. In preparation
- [Four Qualities of Our Resurrection Body](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/03/29/4-qualities-of-our-resurrection-body/) - The resurrection of Jesus was the "the first fruits of those who are asleep" (1 Cor 15:20), that is, His was the first of more to come---ours. Meditating on this future promise strengthens us to face the physical maladies of this life with hope. When facing the reality of ongoing physical suffering, whether by disease
- [The “Secret” to Processing the Occurrence of Disability - One Reader's Review](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/02/03/the-secret-to-processing-the-occurrence-of-disability-one-readers-review/) - Judging by the title of the book, one can gather that the subject of When Disability Hits Home probably has something to do with how to process the occurrence of disability either in our own life or in the life of a loved one. Judging by the authorship of this book, it is certain to
- [Christ’s Transforming Hope for Victims of Sexual Assault and Rape](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/02/02/christs-transforming-hope-for-victims-of-sexual-assault-and-rape/) - Sexual assault and rape are horrifying experiences, which go on to affect all aspects of the victims’ lives. It is truly heartbreaking to listen to their stories and see how their lives have been devastated. My need for the Lord’s wisdom for helping rape victims was the major reason for writing (Un)ashamed: Christ’s Transforming Hope
- [NUGGETS [8/10/13]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/08/10/nuggets-81013/) - Why Do We Need Physical Rest? - "What actually drives us to unrest is rooted in our hearts, usually idolatry. For example, the workaholic sacrifices rest to the god of success, power, and productivity....So, I’ve learned that when I lie down to sleep it helps me to say to myself, 'God, I am powering down,
- [Our Working Definition of Counseling](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/02/our-working-definition-of-counseling/) - The definition that we work to develop here at Counseling One Another is as follows: Biblical counseling is an intensely focused and personal aspect of the discipleship process, whereby believers come alongside one another for three main purposes: first, to help each other consistently apply Scriptural theology to life in order to experience victory over
- [My Dad's Obituary](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/28/my-dads-obituary/) - This past Monday was two months since my excellent father died. I didn't realize it had been that long until a church member sent my wife and me a sweet email letting us know she was praying for us. Life's still a blur. Three days after returning from traveling to the funeral I tested positive
- [God Has Not Forgotten You In Your Time of Great Sorrow](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/25/god-has-not-forgotten-you-in-your-time-of-great-sorrow/) - The pain of loss can lead you to feel alone, even forgotten. The lack of answers to your Why questions and the drying up of the stream of encouraging phone calls, or mail can add to this solitary feeling. There also may be a lack of a sense of what our society calls closure; that
- [Three Reasons God Commands Us to Pray for Government Leaders](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/20/3-reasons-god-wants-you-to-pray-for-president-trump/) - It's Inauguration Day in the United States, so I thought I'd remind us all of the biblical duty we have to always be in prayer for government leaders. Let us remember that our sovereign God raises and lowers kings (Dan. 2:21). He alone is worthy of our worship, full allegiance, and trust. When we as
- [The Necessity of Conversion](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/09/05/the-necessity-of-conversion/) - Authentic biblical counseling stands in awe of the power of God’s gospel to convert thoroughly sinful men and women from thoroughly sinful thoughts, actions, motives, emotions, and desires to Spirit-generated new creations that reflect the beautiful love and holiness of Jesus Christ—the Lord we are now called to follow. God’s vision of discipleship, therefore, requires
- [25 Ways to Provoke Our Children to Anger](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/21/25-ways-to-provoke-your-child-to-anger/) - As parents, fathers in particular, we need to heed God's Word from Ephesians 6:4. Of course, this is not to say that all of our children's anger is caused by us; each of our children is personally responsible for his or her own sin. However, this instruction from God is here for a reason. One
- [Cultivating a Church Culture Open to Constructive Critique](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/13/cultivating-a-church-culture-open-to-constructive-critique/) - There are two equally dangerous extremes that local congregations may fall into as they relate to criticism. The first is a culture of criticism where nearly everything and everyone is viewed with suspicion and negativity. Self-righteous criticism becomes the defining character trait of the church. The second is an uncritical culture where no one dares
- [How My Newest Book was Conceived Over Nine Years Ago](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/03/how-my-newest-book-was-conceived-nine-years-ago/) - Here is the Introduction to my newest book, When Disability Hits Home: How God Magnifies His Grace In Our Weakness and Suffering, with contributions from Joni Eareckson Tada. The idea for this book was conceived in April 2011 at The Gospel Coalition conference in Chicago, during two conversations that could only have been providentially arranged
- [Old and New Testament Foundations for Coping with Criticism](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/12/15/old-and-new-testament-foundations-for-coping-with-criticism/) - Last month, one of the books I read is Pastors and Their Critics: A Guide to Coping with Criticism in Ministry by Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson. This book ministered to me personally, encouraging me to remember the biblical pattern of criticism, reminding me of times when I responded properly, and convicted me about times
- [The Psalm 27 Sword for Battling Fear](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/06/05/the-psalm-27-sword-for-battling-fear/) - Psalm 27 is a powerful weapon against the enemy of fear and its power to enslave our hearts. Meditating on its truths provides a key to unlocking the prison of anxiety, dispels our fears, and gives us hope. Read through Psalm 27 four times. Focus on one particular element each time by asking yourself a
- [12 More Ways Satan May Try to Destroy You](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/07/16/12-more-ways-satan-may-try-to-destroy-you/) - The most popular post ever published on this blog is 20 Ways Satan May Seek to Destroy You. There we survey the Scriptures and demonstrate the reality of our spiritual enemy and his crafty work. Today, I add a dozen more. In my continued reading of A Puritan Theology, I found the chapter “The Puritans
- [A Neglected Sin Common among Christians](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/01/23/a-neglected-sin-common-among-christians/) - As believers in Jesus Christ we are not only created in the image of God--the first worker--but also redeemed by Him in order to reflect the glory of God as that damaged image is renewed through the work of the Holy Spirit through the gospel (Col 3:10). One particular way in which we reflect this
- [Favorite Quotes from My All-Time Favorite Book about Humility](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/12/30/favorite-quotes-from-my-all-time-favorite-book-about-humility/) - The copy of Andrew Murray’s classic book, Humility, which sits on my desk as I type this blog post, was purchased and read in 1985, when I was only one-year old in Christ. Immediately its impact was felt. Since that time, I can’t recall how many times I've picked it up to reread or to
- [Death Is Not My Friend, But Jesus Is](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/12/28/death-is-not-my-friend-but-jesus-is/) - Coronavirus has brought us back to the basics in shocking ways as we, our loved ones, and the world face the reality of our mortality. In the wake of this pandemic, our merciful God has recently healed several of my personal friends and family of serious medical problems. While I’ve been truly grateful for that,
- [Man's Chief Care, Highest Virtue, and Only Happiness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2021/01/02/mans-chief-care-highest-virtue-and-only-happiness/) - Man need only look back to the origin of existence and he will acknowledge that he owes everything to God. Man’s chief care, his highest virtue, and his only happiness, now and through all eternity, is to present himself as an empty vessel in which God can dwell and manifest His power and goodness. The
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/12/24/nuggets-91/) - When Christmas Isn't Merry and Bright - Christmas is not joyous for everyone. For some, the Christmas season brings grief or stress or numbness, which no amount of eggnog or carol singing can overcome. Family tensions, tragic memories, personal sin or even the shortening of daylight hours can make Christmas one of the most difficult
- [What Child Is This?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/12/24/what-child-is-this-2/) - One of my favorite Christmas carols is What Child Is This? Written around 1865 by the Englishman William Chatterton Dix (1837-1898), this carol says so much about our wonderful Savior. What child is this, who, laid to rest, on Mary’s lap is sleeping? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherd’s watch are keeping? This,
- [A Groundbreaking Resource: The Family Disability Toolkit](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/12/17/a-groundbreaking-resource-the-family-disability-toolkit/) - It's been more than three years in the making and, therefore, I am thrilled to introduce to you a brand new resource. Nothing like this has ever been published before! It's the Family Disability Toolkit from Shepherd Press and Joni & Friends International Disability Ministry. In December 2017, about sixty biblical counseling leaders met in
- [How to Pray When Chronic Pain Will Not Go Away](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/12/10/how-to-pray-when-chronic-pain-will-not-go-away/) - If you live long enough in this sin-cursed world, the day will come when you will need what you are about to read. I’m talking about how to pray when you are in pain. Not a little pain either. I have in mind the kind of pain that consumes you to the point where you can’t
- [What Are You Living For?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/27/what-are-you-living-for/) - Only one lifeSo soon it will passOnly what's done for Christ will lastOnly one chance to do His willSo give to Jesus all you daysIt's the only life that paysWhen you recallYou have but one lifeMerrill Dunlop What are you are living for? How would you finish the sentence? To live is _______________. Some might
- [Heaven Is Lovely Because God Is Infinitely Lovely and We Will Be Fully Sanctified](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/12/01/heaven-is-lovely-because-god-is-infinitely-lovely-and-we-will-be-fully-sanctified/) - Over the weekend, my attention was drawn to re-reading one of Jonathan Edwards' best-loved sermons, Heaven Is a World of Love. The following paragraph moved me. [In heaven] everything is beauteous to behold, amiable, and excellent in itself. The God that dwells and gloriously manifests himself there is infinitely lovely—gloriously lovely as a heavenly Father,
- [Help! Our Sex Life Is Troubled By Past Abuse](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/30/help-our-sex-life-is-troubled-by-past-abuse/) - *Today's post is written by Nate Brooks and Anna Mondal, authors of the brand new mini-book Help! Our Sex Life Is Troubled By Past Abuse. The next time you’re at church, take a look around. If the statistics hold true, twenty-five percent of the adults in the room either have been, are, or will become
- [Thankfulness Pushes Anxiety Away](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/25/thankfulness-pushes-anxiety-away/) - And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.Col. 3:15-16 Luke
- [Nuggets [12/13/11]](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/12/13/nuggets-121411/) - Clarifying Sanctification: David Murray is in the middle of a helpful 3-part review of Tullian Tchividjian’s latest book. He reminds us to be clear about the differences between the doctrines of justification and sanctification. Choosing Disability & Thanking God – My daughter-in-law writes about the God-given blessings of being married to a hearing-impaired man. Guardrails
- [Help & Healing for Life's Hurts](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/06/29/help-healing-for-lifes-hurts-video-seminar/)
- [Biblical Hope for People Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/08/25/biblical-hope-for-people-diagnosed-with-bipolar-disorder/) - In my almost-thirty years of pastoral ministry, there have been a handful of people I've interacted with whose lives exhibit the characteristics that the world calls bipolar. How should we understand a man-made psychological label like this, so that we may effectively ministry God's grace and truth to them? Here's a 30-minute podcast you should
- [LifeLine Mini-Books: Mornings with Kelli & Steve Radio Interview](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/09/15/lifeline-mini-books-mornings-with-kelli-steve-radio-interview/) - Discussing the LifeLine mini-books series and how these resources address day-to-day issues from a Bible-centered perspective, with an emphasis on bringing guidance to people who are struggling or suffering, as well as to those who minister to them.
- [IT'S FINALLY HERE! "When Disability Hits Home"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/08/its-finally-here-when-disability-comes-home/) - If you've been a regular reader of this blog the past few years then this announcement may trigger your memory. For quite some time I've been talking---and you've been praying---about my new book with Joni Eareckson Tada, entitled When Disability Hits Home: How God Magnifies His Grace in Our Weakness and Suffering. Well...it's finally available
- [Our Weakness Is a Platform for God's Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/19/our-weakness-is-a-platform-for-gods-grace/) - It’s common for some Christians to say to others who suffer, “Rest assured, God will not give you more than you can handle.” But I often wonder what they really mean and whether it’s true. If what they mean is that God’s love toward us is so protective that he will never give us more
- [Three Benefits of Paul’s “Thorn in the Flesh”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/22/three-benefits-of-pauls-thorn-in-the-flesh/) - What were God’s reasons for bringing a thorn of suffering into Paul’s life? The apostle reveals three benefits that he experienced. Suffering Prevents Conceit First, God gave the apostle his affliction in order to cultivate an increase in humility: “So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a
- [Under His Wings](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/06/under-his-wings/) - He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. Psalm 91:4 God is attentive to the needs of his children. And he is aware of your fears. Like a mother bird hides her young under the protective covering of her wings, so
- [Hope + Help for Couples Struggling with Marital Intimacy Due to Past Sexual Abuse](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/11/hope-help-for-couples-struggling-with-marital-intimacy-due-to-past-sexual-abuse/) - In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, Christine Chappell interviews Nate Brooks and Anna Mondal about their new LifeLine mini-book, Help! Our Sex Life is Troubled by Past Abuse.
- [Friends are Made in Heaven](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/16/friends-are-made-in-heaven/) - Today, I'm pleased to share with you a post written by Dave Deuel of Joni & Friends International Disability Center. It is an excerpt from his new mini-book, Help! My Friend has a Disability. There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.Proverbs 18:24 I can affirm this biblical truth, because I’ve lived it.
- [The Personal God Is Greatly Concerned About the Kind of Worship We Offer to Him](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/22/the-personal-god-is-greatly-concerned-about-the-kind-of-worship-we-offer-to-him/) - How is it possible that sinners like you and me can worship God? R. C. Sproul answers this way: God's thoughts are pure; my thoughts are impure. God's actions are perfect; my actions are imperfect. That is why I need a Savior. That is why my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! A personal, spiritual
- [36 Purposes of God in Our Suffering](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/03/36-purposes-of-god-in-our-suffering/) - Joni Eareckson Tada has given us many books on the subject of God’s tender care for His children in times of suffering. She strikes the chord of authenticity with us so well, because suffering is the world she lives in 24/7. My personal favorite is When God Weeps: Why Our Sufferings Matter to the Almighty,
- [My Three Personal Encounters with Jay Adams](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/18/my-three-personal-encounters-with-jay-adams/) - "For they say, 'His letters are weighty and strong,'" it was said of the apostle Paul, yet his bodily presence and manner of speech were unimpressive. The same could be said of Jay Adams, the father of modern day biblical counseling, who died on November 14, 2020. Misunderstood from a distance by some, Adams was
- [Proven Faith Is More Precious than Gold](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/10/proven-faith-is-more-precious-than-gold/) - “Behold, I go forward, but he is not there, and backward, but I do not perceive him;on the left hand when he is working, I do not behold him; he turns to the right hand, but I do not see him.But he knows the way that I take; when he has tried me, I shall come out as
- [Called to Suffer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/07/called-to-suffer/) - “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”John 16:33 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.1 Peter 2:21 Suffering is no stranger to followers of Christ. It’s part of our
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/12/nuggets-90/) - BOOK DEAL: New Growth Press has the Small Book Devotions Bundle of three books (anger, grief, anxiety) on sale 50% off. These little hardcovers make perfect gifts. Pedaling the Gospel - Gary Hallquist: "Grace is always in front. Daily focusing on who we are in Christ as a result of God’s grace is the pump
- [Forty-Two Identity Markers for Every Christian](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/04/the-answer-to-every-christians-identity-struggl/) - As believers in Jesus Christ it's easy to lose our bearings when we forget who we are. This is every Christian’s identity crisis. The answer is for us to recognize the false identities that have robbed us of our joy, peace, contentment, and security and replace them with what is already true of us because
- [Ten Holy Affections of the Heart](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/11/03/10-holy-affections-of-the-heart/) - Years ago, my weekly men’s small group studied Christ Formed In You by Brian Hedges. The fourth chapter of the book deals with God’s redemptive cure for man’s sin problem, beginning in the heart. One thing that grabbed my attention in the chapter is the emphasis on an oft-neglected piece of the sanctification puzzle—the changes
- [A Prayer for the Melancholy and Fearful](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/30/a-prayer-for-the-melancholy-and-fearful/) - Lord, strengthen the weak hands, and steady the feeble knees. Say to those that have a fearful heart, ‘Be encouraged, have no fear.’ Answer them with comforting words that are suited to their distress. Say to them, ‘Cheer up! Your sins are forgiven. Have confidence! It is I. Have no more fear. For I am
- [Online Training Conference for Pastors and Other Church Leaders in the Philippines this December](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/27/im-excited-to-help-train-pastors-and-other-church-leaders-in-the-philippines-this-december/) - I’m excited to share that I’ve been given the privilege to teach in the Philippines. Though I’d love to visit the Philippines someday, I get to participate in this conference without even getting on a plane! Hosted by iDisciple PHILIPPINES, this online conference is entitled, “GOSPEL HOLINESS: Living a Life Distinct from the World.” This
- [Waiting on the Lord](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/29/waiting-on-the-lord/) - Do you like to wait? If we are honest, most of us would have to answer, “No.” We were born with an innate tendency to do what we want to do when we want to do it. Our flesh cringes at the thought of having to wait, yet God’s Word compels us to wait on
- [What Does It Mean to Live "Without Wax"?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/26/what-does-it-mean-to-live-without-wax/) - And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.Philippians
- [Christ Is Mine Forevermore](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/26/christ-is-mine-forevermore/) - This past Sunday evening, we had a praise and prayer night at church. During a time of personal reflection this song was sung to us. I'd not heard it before, but its rich lyrics ministered to my soul. Mine are days that God has numberedI was made to walk with HimYet I look for worldly
- [Resolve Conflict ASAP](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/06/29/resolve-conflict-asap/) - The Bible is clear. Each of us is a selfish sinner, and so is every other person with whom we have a relationship. Therefore, conflict is inevitable. This never excuses our own sinful actions or attitudes, however, but God's Word calls us to repentance and greater growth in grace. Our great God can even redeem
- [NUGGETS: Down Syndrome and Abortion](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/13/nuggets-down-syndrome-and-abortion/) - While writing my most recent book, When Disability Hits Home, research revealed statistics that saddened me deeply. Unborn children with disabilities face great danger. October Is Down Syndrome Awareness Month - When Shauna Amick learned that her preborn baby had Down syndrome, doctors pressured her to abort Sarah Hope. But Shauna knew the truth of
- [Raising Three Sons with Autism](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/15/raising-three-sons-with-autism/) - During this time of “safer at home,” many people are experiencing the loneliness of isolation for the first time. But for special needs families, isolation is not just a seasonal challenge, it is often a daily reality.
- [Seven Theological Truths that Guide Biblical Counseling](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/10/09/7-theological-truths-that-guide-biblical-counseling/) - All counseling must be shaped by the following truths or it is not biblical. The gospel of Jesus Christ is the foundation of biblical change (2 Cor. 5:17; Rom. 5:1; 6:16-18; 8:13). The gospel brings spiritual new birth, and it orients, guides, empowers, and dominates all of the Christian life following regeneration (Col. 2:6). Change
- [Hope + Help for People Who Struggle with Overeating](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/06/hope-help-for-people-who-struggle-with-overeating-2/) - In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews biblical counselor Shannon McCoy about her LifeLife mini-book, Help! I’m a Slave to Food. Some of the questions addressed in this conversation are: • Is overeating simply a diet problem or a symptom of a deeper, more life-dominating issue?• Why does today’s
- [NUGGETS: Pastors and Churches](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/05/nuggets-pastors-and-churches-2/) - It’s Okay to Be a Pastor – Head down, chin up, one foot in front of the other. The world is broken, but what’s new about that? The Word still needs to be proclaimed, the darkness still needs the light, and the sheep still need a shepherd. Six Reasons Your Pastor Is About to Quit
- ["I Will Be With You"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/10/03/i-will-be-with-you/) - “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2 Comfort from God does not only come to us after our trial has come to an
- [RERUN - 6 Tips for Memorizing Scripture](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/11/02/rerun-6-tips-for-memorizing-scripture/) - Earlier today, I read a helpful little booklet written by Susan Heck entitled A Call to Scripture Memory. In this 21-page booklet from Focus Publishing, the author answers five questions: Who should memorize Scripture? Why should we memorize Scripture? What Scripture should we memorize? When should we memorize Scripture? How do we learn to memorize
- [6 Tips for Memorizing Scripture](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/11/01/6-tips-for-memorizing-scripture/) - Earlier today, I read a helpful little booklet written by Susan Heck entitled A Call to Scripture Memory. In this 21-page booklet from Focus Publishing, the author answers five questions: Who should memorize Scripture? Why should we memorize Scripture? What Scripture should we memorize? When should we memorize Scripture? How do we learn to memorize
- [The God of All Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/09/23/the-god-of-all-grace/) - When we come to God's throne, we need to remember He is indeed the God of all grace. He is the landowner who graciously gave a full day's pay to the workers who had worked only one hour in the vineyard. He is the God who said of the sinful nation of Israel even while
- [What Does the Bible Teach about the Poor and Oppressed?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/09/10/what-does-the-bible-teach-about-the-poor-and-oppressed/) - In the Bible, God speaks often of the poor and needy and how He cares for them. One example is His provision for the poor through “gleanings” from the corners of the field (Lev. 23:22). The Bible also contains stern warnings against those who oppress the poor (Isa. 10:1-3; James 5:1-6). As believers, we are
- [Free Biblical Counseling Training in Cleveland, Ohio](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/09/09/free-biblical-counseling-training-in-cleveland-ohio/) - It's a pleasure for me to make you aware of an opportunity for training in Biblical Counseling here in Cleveland, Ohio. Our church, Cornerstone Community Church in Mayfield Heights, is a certified training center for the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC). As a ministry to the Christian community in the Cleveland area, we are
- [Praying Psalm 63](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/09/08/meditating-on-my-god/) - When David was desperate in the wilderness of Judah he had a choice to make. He could focus on the wilderness and his difficult circumstances or he could meditate on his God and what he knew to be true of God’s character. He chose the latter. As a result, our lives are enriched by having
- [The Power of Daily Meditation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/02/the-power-of-daily-meditation/) - Our spiritual growth in holiness, and breaking free from sin's dominion, are directly dependent upon our daily interaction with Scripture. As ingrained sin habits are being cast aside through the Put Off/Put On process, the follower of Christ must also develop the new habit of craving His Word so that we may do all things
- [The Goal of this Personal Ministry We Call "Biblical Counseling"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/09/03/the-goal-of-this-personal-ministry-we-call-biblical-counseling/) - The Lord of the church is at work. Jesus Christ is building His church. However, He is not only building His church, He is also making her holy—a work that He will not stop performing until she is blameless: “… Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, that He might sanctify
- [Fear Is Sometimes Evidence of Pride and Our Reluctance to Let Go of Our Control](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/09/02/fear-is-sometimes-evidence-of-pride-and-our-reluctance-to-let-go-of-our-control/) - Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6–7). Anxiety is sometimes the fruit of pride—especially when it is accompanied by prayerlessness. Though we often minimize our lack of prayer, prayerlessness
- [The Two-Part Epoxy of Humility and Love](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/08/24/the-two-part-epoxy-of-humility-and-love/) - Psalm 133 testifies, Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! When believers live together in unity it is an experience that brings blessing to them and glory to God. According to the Scriptures, there is unity that exists among genuine Christians that is founded upon a mutual love for Christ
- [Resting in “It Is Finished”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/08/21/resting-in-it-is-finished/) - If you are a regular reader of this blog then you may have noticed one of many threads that have frequently run through my posts this past year; that is, spiritual rest comes from focusing on our identity in Christ. As one who fights an ongoing battle against anxiety, negative thinking, and depressive tendencies; the
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/08/13/nuggets-89/) - Here are a few articles that will encourage your growth in the grace and knowledge of Christ. Lord, Heal Our Dry Eyes - "My tears and my lack of tears are telling: I tend not to love others like Paul loved, and tend not to be as humble as he was." When Will Change Take
- ["We Heard of a Lighthouse"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/08/12/we-heard-of-a-lighthouse/) - “For Thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness.” 2 Samuel 22:29 Am I in the light? Then Thou, O LORD, art my lamp. Take Thee away and my joy would be gone; but as long as Thou art with me, I can do without the torches of time and
- [Mornings with Kelli & Steve](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/07/23/mornings-with-kelli-steve/) - It was a joy to be on this morning Moody Radio program this week, discussing the ways God brings His comfort to us in our times of loss. If you have 20-minutes, or so, take a listen to this episode of Mornings with Kelli and Steve.
- ["God's Hand Is Intimately Mixed Up in Our Troubles"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/07/21/gods-hand-is-intimately-mixed-up-in-our-troubles/) - The title of this blog post was created by David Powlison, a friend and mentor who entered eternal Glory last summer. This statement first appears within the second sentence of the Introduction to David's book, God's Grace in Your Suffering. The context is this: Job, his wife, and his three friends agreed on two things.
- [Fifty Verses from which to Address Loss and Suffering](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/07/16/fifty-verses-from-which-to-address-loss-and-suffering/) - The following review brought me much encouragement this week. If you are not yet familiar with my latest counseling devotional, A Small Book for the Hurting Heart, you can get a quick overview here. “Whatever your grief, whatever your pain, whatever your loss, there is comfort available” (p. 1). Loss is an inevitable part of
- [Pastoral Prayer for Independence Day Weekend](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/07/06/pastoral-prayer-for-independence-day-weekend/) - Yesterday, I was blessed by our congregational prayer time led by one of our church's pastors. I think this will bless you too, as you make it your own prayer of reliance upon the Lord. Lord, thank you for such a beautiful day, thank you for your beautiful creation that declares your glory, your grace,
- [Far Too Wonderful - Psalm 139](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/06/23/far-too-wonderful-psalm-139/) - This week, I've been reflecting on the amazing grace in my life for the past thirty-six years as a follower of Jesus Christ. Through the good times and the most painful, heart-wrenching experiences of life, God has had a good purpose and plan. The same is true for you.
- [Our Obedience Impacts Whether or Not God Answers Our Prayers](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/06/12/our-obedience-impacts-our-prayers/) - Here is a condition to answered prayer that should get our attention. That condition is our obedience, which serves as proof of our love for God: “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will
- [Jesus Has Authority to Forgive Sin](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/12/jesus-has-authority-to-forgive-sin/) - Jesus is the friend of sinners to all who come to Him in the humility of repentant faith. In other words, when sinners like you and me come to Jesus in the humility of faith we find Him to be a tender, forgiving Savior who receives us as we are—bankrupt, broken, needy sinners---prone to wander
- [3 Steps to Breaking the Cycle of Self-Pity](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/04/12/3-steps-to-breaking-the-cycle-of-self-pity/) - The late Martyn Lloyd-Jones has been counseling me the past few days through the re-publication of his sermons on Psalm 73 by Christian Focus entitled Faith On Trial. If you are a regular reader of this blog then you know how many times I have referenced this psalm in the past year and how the
- [WEBINAR: Help & Healing for Life's Hurts](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/06/08/webinar-help-healing-for-lifes-hurts/) - Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you1 Peter 4:12 None of us is a stranger to life's hurts, which come to us through loss. Loss comes in many forms, too many to list. Some examples include: Loss
- [Do Not Pass Judgment on One Another](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/06/03/do-not-pass-judgment-on-one-another/) - As congregations of Christians begin to regather, there are challenges and even threats that local churches will face. Here's an appeal that I wrote to my own congregation, along with a brief teaching from Romans 14. Perhaps you will find it instructive for you and your church as well. Dear church family, I'm so excited
- ["Hope and Help for the Anxious Heart" Seminar Video](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/28/hope-and-help-for-the-anxious-heart-seminar-video/) - GracePoint Counseling, a ministry of Tri-County Bible Church in Rensselaer, Indiana, has graciously made the recording of Tuesday's webinar available to the public via this YouTube video.
- [The Demands of Discipleship](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/06/03/the-demands-of-discipleship/) - [Today’s post has been graciously provided by Scott Williquette of First Baptist Church of Rockford, Illinois.] In the Gospels our Savior reveals what it means to be His disciple. In spite of the clarity and force of His words; however, they are often ignored today. The demands of discipleship are tremendous. They are astronomical. Jesus
- [Nuggets](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/26/nuggets-88/) - Lessons from a Pastor's Wife on Suffering - "Becoming a pastor’s wife brought the awareness of suffering to a whole new level. When you watch faithful followers of Jesus lose loved ones, lose health, suffer abuse, face wrong accusations, lose children from the faith, it hurts. I had a front-row seat to watching the way
- [Rabbi Eric Walker and I Discuss My New Devotional on Loss, Grief, and Healing](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/21/rabbi-eric-walker-and-i-discuss-my-new-devotional-on-loss-grief-and-healing/) - Yesterday, I had the privilege to be on the Igniting a Nation live TV program called "Revealing the Truth." As Rabbi Eric Walker interviewed me about my new devotional, A Small Book for the Hurting Heart, it was a joy to talk about Messiah and the immeasurable comfort that comes from knowing Him.
- [Free Webinar: Hope & Help for the Anxious Heart](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/18/free-webinar-hope-help-for-the-anxious-heart/) - COVID-19 has piled many new challenges on top of the daily ones we were already facing. This has led to many people becoming anxious about the current situation. At GracePoint Counseling we want to offer some practical help to those who are struggling with anxiety. Please attend our free online webinar "Hope and Help for
- [The Unsearchable Ways of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/14/the-unsearchable-ways-of-god-2/) - Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! Romans 11:33 On October 11, 2002, in the worst automobile accident in Wisconsin history, a thick fog wafted inland off Lake Michigan and settled in a low spot on the interstate. A massive
- [Surviving Suicide Loss](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/12/surviving-suicide-loss/) - Most people don’t read about suicide until they have to. Why would they? Yet you are reading this. It’s safe to assume, therefore, that you have been personally affected by the self-inflicted death of someone you love. For that, I am deeply sorry. Losing someone through suicide is so painful that you may not want
- [WEEK 4: Singing Helps Your Spiritual Life to Thrive](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/12/week-4-sing/) - People say you are what you eat. Well, songs are food for the soul. What you sing, and don't sing, changes you. Your heart and mind require a good, balanced diet of gospel truth that will build you up for your working week, your times of trial, and for each season of life. So begins
- [God Is Working While We Are Waiting](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/07/god-is-working-while-we-are-waiting/) - What do Jesus, the prophet Isaiah, and David the king have in common? They all taught this simple truth: God is working while we are waiting; God is active when we're sleeping. What a wonderful truth in times of uncertainty, especially when things are moving slower than we want them to! By faith we need
- [The Character of Job](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/10/12/the-character-of-job/) - God is always searching for men who will be men for Him. The Bible confirms this truth. Samuel said to Saul, the Lord has sought out for Himself a man after His own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). Jeremiah 5:1 says, Roam to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and look now, and take note.
- [Cast Your Cares Upon the Lord](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/05/04/cast-your-cares-upon-the-lord/) - Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.1 Peter 5:6-7 Anxiety is sometimes the fruit of pride—especially when it is accompanied by prayerlessness. Though we often minimize our lack of prayer, prayerlessness unmasks
- [A Letter to an Enslaved (Addicted) Brother in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/28/a-letter-to-an-enslaved-brother-in-christ/) - When we first met several months ago, my heart broke as I read your letter about your addiction to sex, drugs, and alcohol, your loneliness, your lack of purpose, and your discouragement about the fallout of your felony record upon future jobs, marriage, and ministry opportunities. Today, I read the letter again, as I sought
- [Comfort Others](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/05/01/comfort-others/) - Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
- [Morally Accountable](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/07/07/morally-accountable/) - Accountability is something we talk a lot about these days. We rightly make ourselves accountable to each other as fellow members of the body of Christ. We have “accountability partners” to whom we ask, and answer, tough questions concerning specific issues related to personal holiness. Biblical counselors often require some measurable form of accountability as
- [Holiness Is Like Farming](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/03/15/holiness-is-like-farming/) - Last week, when I posted a brief tribute to an unseen mentor, I mentioned that I would be posting more thoughts about how the writings of Jerry Bridges have impacted my thinking about the Christian life and practical theology. One major theme of Jerry’s ministry was holiness, hence the title of his first book The
- [Can God Bring Good Out of Bad?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/27/can-god-bring-good-out-of-bad/) - Sometimes we wonder if God can bring good out of the bad things happening all around us, so it's comforting to know we are not alone in our thinking. The prophet Habakkuk had the same heart struggles and questions. But God said to the frustrated prophet, "Look at the nations. I'm doing something you don't
- [WEEK 2: Congregational Singing Is an Act of Heartfelt Obedience](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/11/week-2-congregational-singing-is-an-act-of-heartfelt-obedience/) - This week, the subject of our reading revolved around the fact that the Scriptures clearly teach us that congregational singing is commanded by God. But, as the Gettys rightly point out, our obedience to this command is "not a clinical obedience, without warmth of conviction or joy of relationship."
- [WEEK 3: We Sing Because We're Free](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/20/week-3-we-sing-because-were-free/) - I'm sorry this post is three days late. Last week, I had a number of migraines, which set back several of my projects. Thanks for your patience. This one sentence summarizes chapter three: "God's love for us inspires our response of love for Him and calls forth songs of joy from our lips." In other
- [How Jesus Addresses Our Anxiety (Part 3 of 3)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/23/how-jesus-addresses-our-anxiety-part-3-of-3/) - “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.”Matthew 6:31-32 In today’s passage, Jesus brings up a relationship that unbelievers (Gentiles) do not have. They worry
- [Counseling Homework Manuals](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/07/09/counseling-homework-manuals/) - Since purchasing Wayne Mack's homework manuals for biblical counseling way back in 1989, I've lost track of how many times I have used them. Just this morning, I again ran one to the photocopier and instantly reproduced some helpful homework. Volume 1: Personal and Interpersonal Problems - includes homework for anger, blameshifting, depression, fear, loneliness,
- [If You're Interested in Economics](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/17/if-youre-interested-in-economics/) - Recently, I reached out to the folks at Westminster Books to ask if they had any book recommendations for someone who wanted to learn more about economics (not financial stewardship/budgeting/etc) from a biblical worldview. Here's their response. Hi Paul, thanks for reaching out! Here are a few resources that come to mind: From a Christian
- [Are You Eating Your Bible Every Day?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/19/are-you-eating-your-bible-every-day/) - The prophet Jeremiah once prayed to God, "Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart" (Jer. 15:16). Jesus echoes this sentiment when He quoted Scripture to Satan, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from
- [God’s Infinite Wisdom Is Displayed in Bringing Good Out of Evil](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/22/gods-infinite-wisdom-is-displayed-in-bringing-good-out-of-evil/) - As we watch tragic events unfolding, or more particularly as we experience adversity ourselves, we often are prone to ask God, “Why?” The reason we ask is because we do not see any possible good to us or glory to God that can come from the particular adverse circumstances that have come upon us or
- [FREE WEBINAR on Managing Fear & Anxiety](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/14/free-webinar-on-managing-fear-anxiety/) - Anxiety has always been a common problem but now it’s at an all-time high, due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Therefore, though it's been scheduled since last fall, the Lord's providential timing for an online seminar this week could not be better! This Friday, April 17th (7:00-8:30pm EST), I'll have the privilege of teaching a live
- [How Jesus Addresses Our Anxiety (Part 1 of 3)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/16/how-jesus-addresses-our-anxieity-part-1-of-3/) - “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?” Matthew 6:26-27 In today’s verses, Jesus says
- [Made for Friendship](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/14/made-for-friendship/) - The Puritan pastor J. C. Ryle described friendship as "the relationship that halves our sorrows and doubles our joys." I'd never heard that before yesterday! But thanks to Drew Hunter and his new book, Made for Friendship, I'm challenged again to think more deeply about true, biblical friendship. I was really blessed and challenged by
- [How Is God Working in My Teen’s Depression?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/02/how-is-god-working-in-my-teens-depression/) - When my husband and I were thrust into our teen’s battle with depression, we never felt more ill-equipped to respond. Though I myself have sailed the seas of sorrow many times in my teen and adult years, I never imagined our child would take such a journey. It broke my heart to discover she was
- [8 New Discipleship Counseling Mini-Books](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/04/04/8-new-discipleship-counseling-booklets/) - As the Consulting Editor for the LifeLine Mini-Book series published by Shepherd Press, I am super-excited to introduce you to eight new titles that have just come off the press. I am confident you will find these additions to the series very helpful in your personal, and small-group, one-another ministry. HELP! I Want to Change
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: An Interview with David Powlison (Part 2)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/01/11/an-interview-with-david-powlison-part-2/) - In yesterday's post, we introduced you to Dr. David Powlison of the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation, a key leader in the present day, church-based counseling movement. Here's the continuation of David's 35-year journey in the world of biblical counseling. PT: David, your writings have significantly impacted me in the affirmation of the view of
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: An Interview with Howard Eyrich](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/01/29/an-interview-with-howard-eyrich/) - What is your current involvement in Biblical Counseling? My involvement can be summarized in four categories. Teaching—there are three venues for teaching. I direct and teach in a DMin program at Birmingham Theological Seminary. I teach/train approximately a 20 member class each year from September through May. I participate in a 32 hour intensive weekend
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: An Interview with David Powlison](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/06/09/an-interview-with-david-powlison-part-1/) - [Since my friend David Powlison entered the joy of his Master this past Friday, I've wanted to write a tribute to his gracious influence in my life. However, an injury to my hands has made it difficult to type. For now, I'm re-posting this 2-part interview from January 10, 2013, which was part of a
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: An Interview with Bob Kellemen](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/12/07/journey-to-biblical-counseling-an-interview-with-bob-kellemen/) - Welcome to the first installment of Counseling One Another's new feature Journey to Biblical Counseling. Here I interview various pastors, teachers, equippers, authors, and leaders in the biblical counseling movement. What led them to biblical counseling? What were some of the influences the Lord used in their journey? How do they now define biblical counseling?
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling: One Woman's Testimony](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/02/25/journey-to-biblical-counseling-one-womans-testimony/) - [Previous editions of Journey to Biblical Counseling consisted of interviews with men and woman whom God is using as leaders in today's biblical counseling movement. Today, we depart slightly from that format to publish an unsolicited testimony from one of our regular, out-of-state readers.] Hi Paul, I couldn't hold back any longer. I had to
- [Endorsements for A SMALL BOOK FOR THE HURTING HEART: Meditations for Loss, Grief, and Healing](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/13/endorsements-for-a-small-book-for-the-hurting-heart-meditations-for-loss-grief-and-healing/) - It's hard to put into words to the gratitude that I have in my heart toward the Lord for how graciously some of my mentors and peers has spoken about my new book. I hope and pray the Spirit uses it to draw many people into the Word of God to find the comfort they
- [How Jesus Addresses Our Anxiety (Part 2 of 3)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/20/how-jesus-addresses-our-anxiety-part-2-of-3/) - “But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?”Matthew 6:30 We are earthbound people who naturally focus on earthly burdens. Our smallness of faith exposes itself in our predisposition to worry
- [Bearing with One Another During the COVID-19 Stay-at-Home Order](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/13/bearing-with-one-another-during-the-covid-19-stay-at-home-order/) - “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:1-3 A checklist popped up on my to-do list today that I thought I
- [The Testing of Your Faith Produces Endurance](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/12/the-testing-of-your-faith-produces-endurance/)
- [Four Resurrection Implications](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/12/resurrection-implications/) - The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the well from which the fountain of new life springs. If you are united to Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection then you possess this new living water in your innermost being (Jn 7:38). This is the reason you have an internal longing, a craving, a powerful, and
- [The Peace of God Guards Our Hearts from Anxiety](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/08/the-peace-of-god-guards-our-hearts-from-anxiety/) - In anxious times, we may draw much hope and encouragement from Philippians 4:5-7, which says, The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your
- [How Deep the Father's Love for...You and Me](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/10/how-deep-the-fathers-love-for-me/) - The Holy Spirit often leads me to use songs of worship for the purpose of self-counseling. Today, I'm meditating on the truth that is proclaimed through the lyrics of How Deep the Father's Love for Us, to keep myself in the love of God (Jude 21). How deep the Father's love for us, How vast
- [5-Minute Video on Anxiety and Trusting God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/25/5-minute-video-on-anxiety-and-trusting-god/) - Yesterday, I posted this short video for the encouragement of our church family. Perhaps you will also find it helpful during these anxious times. For further study and help, consider working through the 31-day devotional, ANXIETY: Knowing God’s Peace.]
- [HELP! My Baby Died](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/06/help-my-baby-died/) - In our late twenties, my wife Teana endured three traumatizing miscarriages. I use the word ‘traumatizing’ for many reasons, the first of which is that it seemed contrary to our understanding of God, his promises and the normal expectations of any couple awaiting the birth of a child. She miscarried, not once, not twice but
- [The Man of Sorrows Understands Your Grief](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/04/06/the-man-of-sorrows-understands-your-grief/) - He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. Isaiah 53:3 Jesus understands your pain, no matter what is causing it. There is no sadness, hurt, or loss he does not know personally. He can relate to all of it because he is the Man of Sorrows. This is
- [Day by Day](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/13/day-by-day-2/) - The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. (Zephaniah 3:17) God sings. He will sing over you. And when he does, “he will quiet you with his
- [Brain Malfunction Versus Mental Illness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/04/23/brain-malfunction-versus-mental-illness/) - In the ongoing and important discussion of the nature of mental illness, it seems to me that it would be helpful if we could be more deliberate in our distinction between “mental illness,” as a very large societal umbrella covering multitudes of non-organically-related behaviors, and “mental illness” as an organic, physiological disorder backed up by
- [By His Wounds We Are Healed](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/05/by-his-wounds-we-are-healed/) - But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5, NKJV) Jesus was tragically wounded, but not every injury was visible. He was bruised because of our sins, but not all of his hurts could
- [Seeing God in Our Suffering (12-Minute Podcast)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/30/12-minute-podcast-on-seeing-god-in-our-suffering/) - Last October, I had the privilege to teach at the annual conference of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC). During the week it was also a great joy to sit down with executive director Dale Johnson, to talk about the importance of interpreting all our suffering through the lens of a God-centered theology. Today,
- [The Emotional Jesus](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/11/16/emotional-jesus-compassion/) - Benjamin B. Warfield (1851–1921) was professor of theology at Princeton Seminary from 1887 to 1921. Some consider him to be the last of the great Princeton theologians before the split in 1929 that formed Westminster Seminary and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. His essay, The Emotional Life of Our Lord, was first published in 1912. Beginning today we will spend most of this week
- [The Four Points of Revival](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/07/09/the-four-points-of-revival/) - Of the revival in Wales over 100 years ago it has been written: “The turn of the twentieth century was marked by an unusual concern for spiritual matters. Believers throughout the world were moved to pray for revival. In November 1904, the Spirit of God began to stir in an extraordinary way in the hearts
- [Will You Read a Little Book about Worship with Me?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/19/will-you-read-a-little-book-about-worship-with-me/) - It's only been one Lord's Day that we've been unable to gather together as a church family, but I'm already aching for the day we can come together again to sing praises to the Lord as a congregation. So, I thought it would be neat to take advantage of this down time to read a
- [An Anxiety-Fighting Bible Study for this Week](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/18/a-bible-study-suggestion-for-this-week/) - Deliberate praise is an act of faith and a remedy for anxiety at the same time. It shifts our focus from the object of our worries (such as sickness, job stress, financial troubles, or a fight last night with our spouse) to the One who is sovereign over all things. Your worries lure you away
- [Bearing One Another's (Sin) Burdens](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/07/11/bearing-one-anothers-sin-burdens/) - Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something when he
- [One Day at a Time](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/17/one-day-at-a-time/) - Are you worried about tomorrow and what it might bring? Jesus reminds us to take one day at a time, being responsible to follow and obey the Lord, while leaving the end results in His hands Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is
- [Anxiety, Coronavirus, and the Promises of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/12/anxiety-coronavirus-and-the-promises-of-god/) - Knowing very well that the recent coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is on everyone’s mind, I thought I’d share a short devotion encouraging us to trust in God’s faithfulness and promises. In the face of danger, we need to be prudent and wise, but also need to be careful our heart is not held in bondage to
- [A Note to the One Who Is Afraid of God's Will](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/07/a-note-to-those-who-are-afraid-of-gods-will/) - I’ve been thinking about our conversation the other day and have a few more thoughts for you to consider. In your present state of indecision, which we identified as being caused by fear in your heart---fear that perhaps God will ask you to do something with your life that is different than the plans you've
- [Jesus Was a Gospel Preacher](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/25/jesus-was-a-gospel-preacher/) - Jesus was the only preacher who could announce good news from God, and then say, “Here I am. Look to Me. Hope has arrived.” Every other faithful gospel preacher since has pointed others to Jesus, never to himself. But what is the gospel? Gospel means good news.The Bible says the gospel is God’s gospel.This means
- [Happy Are Those...](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/09/29/happy-are-those/) - One of the most famous portions of the Bible is Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, which begins with what have become known as The Beatitudes. Each of these snippets of divine wisdom begins with the word, “Blessed,” which actually means happy. So, “Blessed are you when…” can also be read, “Happy are you when…” Therefore,
- [Love Is not Rude...when Texting](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/19/love-is-not-rude-when-texting/) - I've been thinking about love and texting for the past week or so because of a brief conversation I had with one of the elders at our church. So let me "think out loud" with you for a few moments. Texting is here to stay, whether we like it or not. But like every form
- [Assuming the Posture of a Servant](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/23/assuming-the-posture-of-a-servant/) - It was sometime between 1986 and 1988. The setting was the daily chapel service at Calvary Bible College in Kansas City. The preacher was an area pastor with a speech impediment. From his very first words my eyes were fixed, my mind engaged, and my heart stirred. I don’t know his name. I couldn’t have
- [Up Is Down: 7 Marks of Humility](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/24/up-is-down-7-marks-of-humility/) - God’s leadership principles are the complete opposite of man’s. Consider just one. If a man wants to go up then he goes up. If he wants to climb the corporate ladder then he climbs (often stepping on a good number of others in the process). If a man wants to sit in the most important
- [You’ve Got a Friend](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/07/05/youve-got-a-friend/) - The Essential James Taylor, two-disc set, was among the CD’s I enjoyed listening to (again) on our road trip last week. This singer-songwriter’s ability to craft an unforgettable melody and marry it to thoughtful words is legendary. His website biography rightly says, “For more than forty years Taylor has been a compass for his fans,
- [We Need to Pray for Our Needs](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/13/we-need-to-pray-for-our-needs/) - In 1975, at the Western Open golf tournament near Chicago, the legendary Lee Travino was one of three golfers struck by lightning on the same day. Later, when he was interviewed on television, he was asked what he had learned from the experience which had caused a back injury that hampered the rest of his
- [Six Common Reasons God Does Not Answer Our Prayers](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/15/six-common-reasons-god-does-not-answer-our-prayers/) - Sometimes we’re tempted to wonder if God can hear. After months or even years of praying over a particular person or situation, we look for evidence God is getting our message or even paying attention, and we can’t find much. Why is that? Why do the heavens sometimes seem like brass? Doesn’t God love us
- [The Problem with Pet Sins](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/16/the-problem-with-pet-sins/) - Yesterday, I mentioned that I would post six brief articles introducing you to the six most common reasons for unanswered prayer, which are explained more fully in the book, Brass Heavens: Reasons for Unanswered Prayer. Here's the first of those reasons, pet sins. We often like having animals as pets because we believe they can
- [Why Refusing to Resolve Conflict Hinders Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/19/why-refusing-to-resolve-conflict-hinders-prayer/) - Some sins are more passive than active. We may call these sins of omission rather than sins of commission because they are all about what we don’t do. These sins involve neglecting (and sometimes refusing) to do what is right rather than willfully doing what is plainly forbidden. In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus
- [How a Husband’s Failure Short-Circuits His Prayers](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/22/how-a-husbands-failure-short-circuits-his-prayers/) - Since my conversion from dead religion to the risen Christ in 1984, there is nothing I have wanted more than God’s profound favor upon my life. Therefore as a husband, I find 1 Peter 3:7 deeply sobering: “Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker
- [Stubbornness Closes God’s Ears](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/23/stubbornness-closes-gods-ears/) - God listens to those who listen to him. The proof of this is all over Scripture. Isaiah 66:2 offers a prime example when God says, “this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word” (Isaiah 66:2). Even more direct is a warning
- [Unanswered Prayer Is a Means to Test Our Faith](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/24/unanswered-prayer-is-a-means-to-test-our-faith/) - As God performs his sanctifying work in us—conforming us to the image of his Son, “the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2)—there will be times when answers to prayer seem out of all possible reach. When we try to discern the cause for this, we may find that self-examination doesn’t help. Maybe we
- [8 Action Points When Facing Terminal Illness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/07/10/8-action-points-when-facing-terminal-illness/) - Our life in this fallen world will be filled with many expected and unexpected forms of suffering. The curse in the Garden announced this, Jesus confirmed it in His teaching, and the experience of the New Testament church testifies of it. Therefore, as long as we live--awaiting the glorious return of the Savior, there will
- [Religious Sins](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/20/religious-sins/) - Hiding beneath the cloak of our perceived goodness are religious sins, those that feed self-awareness of our spirituality. Instead of driving us to God in humble dependence upon his grace, they blind us, fuel self-righteousness, breed spiritual apathy, and often neutralize the Holy Spirit’s conviction. Religious sins are hazardous because they produce false confidence in
- [Commendation for the LIFELINE MINI-BOOKS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/01/27/commendation-for-the-lifeline-mini-books/) - It's a privilege to serve as the series editor for the LifeLine Mini-books from Shepherd Press. Todd Friel of Wretched Radio and TV recently gave this commendation: The Shepherd Press Help! series is the single most helpful counseling resource a church can provide for members and visitors. In an era when people are reluctant to tackle
- [God Is Sovereign Over the Weather](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/09/06/god-is-sovereign-over-the-weather/) - The Lord is lord of all. Whether rain or snow, cold or heat, wind or stagnant air, hurricane or calm, the Lord is the one who continues to uphold all of creation by His mighty power. It is Jesus Christ who “upholds all things by the word of His power” (Hebrews 1:3), and God uses
- [10 Things That Are True When I Confess My Sin](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/09/20/10-things-that-are-true-when-i-confess-my-sin-2/) - What is sin? One definition is that sin is anything within me, or an action produced by me, which fails to bring glory to God (Romans 3:23). Whenever the Holy Spirit opens the eyes of your heart to see your sin, it is healthy to turn to the Scriptures to fill your mind with truth.
- [How to Have a Quiet Time with God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/11/22/how-to-have-a-quiet-time-with-god/) - Some Bible-believing Christians call it My Quiet Time; others refer to it as “having my devotions.” Regardless of what name you attach to it, one of the most common disciplines for believers who are hungry for spiritual growth is a daily (ideally), personal time with God. To encourage personal worship, as a spiritual discipline, I
- [That Adorable Attribute of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/05/08/that-adorable-attribute-of-god/) - Yesterday, while preaching on the miracle of the new birth from 1 Peter 1:3-5, I read these words from A. W. Pink on the mercy of God. "Mercy is not a right to which man is entitled. Mercy is that adorable attribute of God by which He pities and relieves the wretched. But under the
- [Timetabling](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/03/timetabling/) - Waiting upon the Lord is one of the most difficult disciplines of the Christian life. It's always been this way. Psalms 13 and 35, for example, both begin with the heart's cry "How long, Lord?" Yet, waiting upon the Lord---trusting in His perfect timing for all things---is one of the most beneficial stimulants to growth
- [Cared for Better than Lions (and birds)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/12/13/cared-for-better-than-lions-and-birds/) - The promises of God to His redeemed children are numerous, and He is faithful and true to keep every one of them. One promise, in particular, which we often rest upon is God’s promise to meet our needs. And if our memory is faint about how He has done that for us in the past
- [The Yardstick of Faithfulness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/04/the-yardstick-of-faithfulness/) - Yesterday, I was talking to a pastor who has been fighting discouragement. He wondered if it was worth serving God anymore, if it was worth his continued sacrifice and the sacrifice of his family. He wondered if he should have chosen the well-paying business leadership position offered to him years ago. At least, then, he
- [The Uniqueness of God’s Lordship](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/06/the-uniqueness-of-gods-lordship/) - “To regard God as Lord is to see him as utterly unique,” writes John Frame in his new Systematic Theology. “He is unique both (1) in his radical differences from anything in creation and (2) in his equally radical differences from anything else that is called a god or that is falsely worshiped as a
- [20 Questions to Expose Your Idolatry](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/16/20-questions-to-expose-your-idolatry/) - The more we progress in the sanctification that is promoted by exposure to the Word of God, the more we see the hidden motives of our heart. Indeed this is one of the purposes of Scripture: For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of
- [The Power and the Pattern for Marriage](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/12/the-power-and-the-pattern-for-marriage/) - A few days ago, I began reading Tim Keller’s The Meaning of Marriage. The conclusion to the first chapter is so well written and compelling that I wanted to share it with you. “The reason that marriage is so painful and yet wonderful is because it is a reflection of the gospel, which is painful
- [What Is Friendship?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/01/25/what-is-friendship/) - Reading Tim and Kathy Keller's book, The Meaning of Marriage, is proving to be quite a blessing. This morning, while reading the chapter on the mission of marriage, I was encouraged by the following paragraph which speaks to the character of friendship---in general---before describing it further and applying it more deeply to marriage. Keller asks
- [The Great Horizon for Marriage](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/02/02/the-great-horizon-for-marriage/) - "What, then, is marriage for?," Tim Keller asks in The Meaning of Marriage. He answers, "It is for helping each other to become our future glory-selves, the new creations that God will eventually make us. The common horizon husband and wife look toward is the Throne, and the holy, spotless, and blameless nature we will
- [Your Secret Weapon Against Pornography](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/03/15/your-secret-weapon-against-pornography/) - In the battle against porn addiction, Tim Challies persuasively argues that there is one secret weapon many men never take advantage of; that is, a mentoring relationship that will provide accountability and encouragement to continue fighting the fight. As I promised a couple days ago, I want to revisit the counsel given in Tim’s book,
- [Give Thanks for the Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/04/06/give-thanks-for-the-church/) - This morning, I found myself drawn back into Matthew Henry’s A Way to Pray. My post-it note bookmark informed me that it was time to read a short chapter in the thanksgiving portion of the book, which is entitled “Give Thanks for the Establishment of the Church in the World.” Below is a brief summary
- [Our Support Since Birth](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/05/11/our-support-since-birth/) - In recent months, I’ve been thinking about the gracious hand of God’s providence by which He has led me the past 33 years of knowing Christ as Lord and Savior. I marvel that to bring me to where I am in life and ministry today took innumerable blessings, decisions, and experiences—both immensely joyful and heart-wrenchingly
- [Jerry Bridges on "Pray About Everything"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/06/01/jerry-bridges-on-pray-about-everything/) - Last year, one of my heroes and spiritual mentors, Jerry Bridges, went home to Glory. There is no doubt in my mind he received the "Well done" commendation from our Savior. For this reason, it was a great honor when he agreed to write the Foreword to one of my books on prayer. Here's what
- [“White Sugar Makes Me Angry”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/10/21/white-sugar-makes-me-angry/) - Not long ago, a brother in Christ and I were talking about how nothing is new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9), especially when it comes to the religious teachings of men. That got me thinking about of how many Colossians 2-like “food gospels” there are in today’s evangelicalism (read Colossians 2:16-23), which reminded me of
- [We Are Debtors to the Weak](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/10/27/we-are-debtors-to-the-weak/) - One of the unexpected blessings of being called to a new ministry and moving from Wisconsin to Ohio has been the process of unpacking and reorganizing my library. In doing so, I’ve found a couple boxes of books that I’ve read in the past few years, but have not had time to process (I do
- [God Is Not the Source of Our Discouragements](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/10/29/god-is-not-the-source-of-our-discouragements/) - Some Christians say that we should not perform our duties to the Lord if we are discouraged for to do so would be disingenuous, that is, we should not perform spiritual disciplines and duties if our heart is not in it. Wouldn’t it be better to wait until we feel like doing right? After all,
- [Sustained by the Spirit's Comfort](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/11/05/sustained-by-the-spirits-comfort/) - Yesterday afternoon, I was perusing my library and caught sight of a Puritan volume that I’ve not pulled off the shelf in a while. My bookmark in volume 1 of Brakel’s The Christian’s Reasonable Service was near the end of a chapter on the Trinity, so I finished reading there. While teaching on the Holy
- [How Does Jesus Christ Fulfill the Law?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/11/06/how-does-jesus-christ-fulfill-the-law/) - In preparation for preaching Romans 10:1-4, this Lord’s Day, one of the Romans commentaries I’ve been reading is James Montgomery Boice. Discussing the meaning of Romans 10:4, “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes,” Boice seeks to answer the question, “How does Jesus fulfill the law?” He explains:
- [7 Quotes from Owen’s “The Mortification of Sin”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/11/24/7-quotes-from-owens-the-mortification-of-sin/) - This morning, I pulled one of my Puritan Paperbacks off the shelf, The Mortification of Sin by John Owen, and reviewed a few chapters, focusing on sentences I had previously underlined. Here are a few that the Spirit used in my heart. Mortification Is Every Christian’s Duty “The choicest believers, who are assuredly freed from
- [Reason and Revelation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/12/04/reason-and-revelation/) - Off and on, I pick up my copy of James Boyce’s Abstract of Systematic Theology and read a chapter, which I did a couple weeks ago. James Petigru Boyce lived from 1827-1888 and was the founding president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. The purpose of Chapter 3 in Abstract is to reflect on the
- [Actively Being Still, Knowing God Is God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/12/28/actively-being-still-knowing-god-is-god/) - Psalm 46 exhorts us to “Be still and know that He is God,” but we often mistakenly equate being still with being passive. However, the opposite is true and necessary. Being still is much like waiting on the Lord; it’s an active discipline. Actively being still is a remedy for sinful fear, it is a
- [Jerry Bridges, My Unseen Mentor](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/03/08/jerry-bridges-my-unseen-mentor/) - For 32 years, Jerry Bridges was a spiritual mentor to me. It began in the spring of 1984, when the home Bible study group that was instrumental in my conversion morphed into a Navigators 2:7 discipleship group, where I was nursed with the pure milk of the Word of God for the first two years
- [Attitude Is Everything](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/03/18/attitude-is-everything/) - What is godliness? Is it measured by conformity to a list of man-made rules and regulations? Does it consist primarily of prohibitions? These are questions that Jerry Bridges answered for me many years ago in his book The Practice of Godliness, the sequel to The Pursuit of Holiness. In his first book, the emphasis is
- [Every Pastor Must Counsel the Flock](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/05/10/every-pastor-must-counsel-the-flock/) - In Colossians 1:24-29, the apostle Paul reveals his unceasing commitment to work toward the spiritual development, i.e. maturity, of believers. Paul was not content to simply lead people to saving faith in Christ and then leave them to fend for themselves. But he walked through life with them, suffering alongside them, and speaking the truth
- [If God Is Sovereign, Isn’t Prayer Superfluous?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/05/20/if-god-is-sovereign-isnt-prayer-superfluous/) - In his Institutes of the Christian Religion, John Calvin gives us 6 reasons the providence of God does not render prayer unnecessary. “But, someone will say, does God not know, even without being reminded, both in what respect we are troubled and what is expedient for us, so that it may seem in a sense
- [Flashback Friday: 7 Marks of Humility](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/06/24/flashback-friday-7-marks-of-humility/) - Starting today, each Friday I plan to re-post an article from previous years which I think will be an encouragement and will equip you as you continue to follow our gracious Lord. Here's one from February 2012. God’s leadership principles are the complete opposite of man’s. Consider just one. If a man wants to go
- [Transformed Into His Likeness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/07/27/transformed-into-his-likeness/) - Yesterday, I found myself recommending this resource again so I thought I'd mention it to you. Transformed Into His Likeness is a unique resource. Its spiral-bound flip chart design makes it very useful in counseling and personal one-to-one discipleship. This workbook addresses over 100 common problems facing Christians along with biblical solutions for each. It
- [The Locus and Display of God’s Holiness and Beauty](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/08/04/the-locus-and-display-of-gods-holiness-and-beauty/) - As I near the end of reading Isaiah By the Day: A Devotional Translation by Alec Motyer, I want to pass on to you some really important thoughts from the author which serve to challenge each of us. Today’s reading was Isaiah 63:15-64:12, which compares and contrasts the Lord’s heavenly habitation with His earthly dwelling
- [God All-Sufficient](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/08/25/god-all-sufficient/) - [Yesterday morning, we read this in our staff meeting. It is a precious prayer demonstrating dependence upon the all-sufficient God. It is taken from Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions.] O LORD OF GRACE, The world is before me this day, and I am weak and fearful, but I look to
- [The Test of Trials – Part 1](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/03/04/the-test-of-trials-part-1/) - In his excellent book, Trusting God, Jerry Bridges provides a compelling illustration of the necessary relationship between experiencing trials and growing toward spiritual maturity. He writes: One of the many fascinating events in nature is the emergence of the Cecropia moth from its cocoon—an event that occurs only with much struggle on the part of
- [A Lifelong Student in the Lord’s School](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/02/09/a-lifelong-student-in-the-lords-school/) - Having a teachable spirit is at the heart of progress in the Christian life. Only the stubbornness of our pride keeps us from becoming all that God desires for us to be in Christ. The ones who make the most progress in grace are those who are never satisfied with themselves, never willing to accept
- [When the Cross Speaks Most Powerfully to Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/05/05/when-the-cross-speaks-most-powerfully-to-us/) - While reading a chapter in How Long, O Lord?: Reflections on Suffering and Evil, by D. A. Carson, I was struck by this excerpt, which introduced to me a poem I had not seen before: “Frequently it is when we are crushed and devastated that the cross speaks most powerfully to us. The wounds of
- [Golden Sentences of Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/04/30/golden-sentences-of-grace/) - Charles Spurgeon is real; that is one reason why we love him so much. In his writings, he bore his heart and soul to us—he took the risk of being transparent and, as a result, left rich words that continue to feed our souls to this day and, more than likely, will feed the souls
- [People Can Really Change](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/04/29/people-can-really-change/) - In the blockbuster film Frozen, one of the mother trolls believes, “people don’t really change.” But is this true, biblically? No, of course it isn’t. Salvation is about transformation, not merely forgiveness and eternal life. The good news of the gospel is not only that Jesus Christ died and rose again to redeem us from
- [HOPE + HELP for Loss and Grief](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/06/hope-help-for-loss-and-grief/) - In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, Christine Chappell interviews me about my newest book, A Small Book for the Hurting Heart: Meditations on Loss, Grief, and Healing. We talk about how the gospel of Jesus Christ offers comfort and strength for those walking through seasons of mourning. By unraveling various forms of
- [3 Reasons We Must Deal with Anger Biblically](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/09/21/3-reasons-we-must-deal-with-anger-biblically/) - It's the third day of teaching here at Kiev Theological Seminary and we just finished up our class notes on anger. We learned how to biblically define anger, as well as the difference between righteous anger (which is extremely rare in human beings) and sinful anger. In contrast with the self-centered teachings of the unbelieving
- [False Causes of Anger](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/08/29/false-causes-of-anger/) - What causes our anger? asks Robert Jones in Uprooting Anger. “Our culture offers a myriad of theories,” he writes, including: Unconscious psychodynamic forces: “Some theorists think anger flows from deep, inner, unconscious psychodynamic forces. Murky motives lurk within and impulsively drive us.” Past mistreatments: “Others blame anger on past childhood mistreatment. This might include traumatic
- [Anger 'Disorders'](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/06/24/anger-disorders/) - Anger is a God-given emotion; it is part of being made in His image. It is a rising up of the human heart’s sense of right and wrong. Robert Jones defines anger well in his excellent, biblically faithful book Uprooting Anger: “Our anger is our whole-personed active response of negative moral judgment against perceived evil.”
- [3 Benefits to Thinking about Hell](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/02/21/3-benefits-to-thinking-about-hell/) - Fear is a powerful motivator. Granted, fear is often used by Satan to hold us in his grip, but fear---when connected to the fear of God---can motivate us to turn away from our sin toward Jesus Christ and God's gifts of righteousness and forgiveness in Him. If we spurn Him who is our only hope
- [Christopher Love: Glories of Heaven](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/02/20/christopher-love-glories-of-heaven/) - Paul, the apostle, exhorts us as believers to set our mind on things above, “where Christ is,” rather than on the things of this earth (Col 3:1). This heavenly-mindedness empowers us to continue to live for God while we patiently wait for the return of our glorious Savior. This eternal perspective was emphasized by the
- [Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling Men](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/10/17/quick-scripture-reference-for-counseling-men/) - Since I am a biblical counselor and reviewer of books, I often receive copies of new resources from publishers. Last week, Baker Books sent to me a copy of Keith Miller's new resource Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling Men. This title rounds out a trilogy of resources from Keith and his wife, Patricia, both of
- [Comfort the Grieving](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/01/20/comfort-the-grieving/) - On a regular basis, I receive inquiries as to how to obtain copies of my book Comfort Those Who Grieve: Ministering God's Grace in Times of Loss (It's been hard to find since stock was intentionally allowed to run out because it moved to a different publisher). Thankfully, I am now able to direct you
- [Paul Tripp on 5 Reasons God Answers Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/02/24/paul-tripp-on-5-reasons-god-answers-us/) - In Psalm 27:7, David pleads with God to answer him. But what is significant to recognize is that he does not base his request on himself, but on God’s grace and mercy: “Be gracious to me and answer me!” This serves as a very important reminder to us. God roots His answers to our prayers,
- [Sinclair Ferguson on Learning Contentment](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/04/29/sinclair-ferguson-on-learning-contentment/) - It is not uncommon for one chapter to be worth the price of a book. I said that to myself when I finished reading “Learning Contentment,” the tenth chapter in Sinclair Ferguson’s Deserted by God? But then, right after I said that, I realized I had said it several times before---while reading the same book.
- [Paul Tripp: "This is what I love about the Psalms"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/02/01/paul-tripp-this-is-what-i-love-about-the-psalms/) - You and I were not hardwired to make our way through this fallen world on our own. We were meant to exist with eyes filled with the beauty of [God’s] presence and hearts at rest in the lap of his goodness. This is what I love about the Psalms. They put difficulty and hope together
- [Depression and the Pastor’s Wife: Suffering in Silence](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/01/29/depression-and-the-pastors-wife-suffering-in-silence/) - [Today’s post is written by Cara Croft and is from the excellent new book, The Pastor’s Family by Brian and Cara Croft, published by Zondervan.] Every counselor begins with the question, “So how long have you suffered with depression?” The truth is that I am not sure. At times it seems like a lifetime. As
- [The Most High God](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/01/17/the-most-high-god/) - “Confidence in the sovereignty of God in all that affects us is crucial to our trusting Him. If there is a single event in all of the universe that can occur outside of God’s sovereign control, then we cannot trust Him. His love may be infinite, but if His power is limited and His purpose can
- [God-Dependency](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/28/god-dependency/) - A life of prayer is irrefutable proof of God-dependency… Prayer is the only form of communication with God available to the believer. It is crucial, therefore, that we understand how God wills for us to speak with Him. R. L. Dabney (1820–1898) defined prayer as “an offering up of our desires unto God for things
- [Anger Self-Examination Questions](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/26/anger-self-examination-questions/) - Since earlier this year, each Friday, three men at our church meet over lunch to read through Stuart Scott's book, The Exemplary Husband. As we near the end of this helpful look at biblical husbanding, we have been studying some of our regrets as husbands. Today's chapter was on the subject of anger. We found
- [RERUN - 20 Ways Satan May Seek to Destroy You](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/29/rerun-20-ways-satan-may-seek-to-destroy-you-2__trashed/) - He is the serpent, the Great Dragon, Beelzebul, the ruler of this world, the prince of the power of the air, the evil one, and the adversary. He is Satan. And---if you are a follower of Jesus Christ---he hates your guts with a passion. Like a roaring lion he is prowling about seeking to destroy
- [RERUN - 37 Ways to Love One Another](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/10/30/rerun-37-ways-to-love-one-another/) - A local church is not built by one man, or even a few men, but by every believer being actively involved in ministry through evangelizing the lost people in their lives and serving their fellow Christians. A quick glance at the practice of the New Testament church reveals that they thought very little about programs
- [RERUN - How to Be a Miserable Comforter](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/11/10/rerun-how-to-be-a-miserable-comforter/) - Apart from the suffering of Jesus on the cross of Calvary the book of Job is the best biblical illustration of human suffering. In a few moments’ time Job, a great man of the east, lost all of his wealth (which was massive), his physical property, and his ten children. Though imperfect (he was a
- [Top 5 Dead Authors](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/07/26/top-5-dead-authors/) - This morning it was a joy to spend some time at one of my all-time favorite Christian booksellers, Cumberland Valley Bible & Books in Carlisle, PA. Their website has been a personal favorite of mine since the mid-90's when I was introduced to their wonderful selection of books at the Bethlehem Conference for Pastors in
- [The Caged Bird Is Singing!](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/09/03/the-caged-bird-is-singing/) - The following lengthy quotation has sat on my stand-up desk for over a year now. It convicted me then and, again, last week when I rediscovered it while cleaning my office. It is from A Portrait of Paul: Identifying a True Minister of Christ by Rob Ventura and Jeremy Walker. Paul is sitting bound in
- [Matthew Henry on Our Lack of Love](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/09/27/matthew-henry-on-our-lack-of-love/) - Repent for the lack of love you have displayed toward your brothers and sisters. Confess with sorrow the times you have not lived in peace with your relatives, neighbours, and friends. Seek God's pardon for the times you have treated them unjustly. We have been very guilty in our relationships toward our brothers and sisters.
- [God's Delight in Displaying His Mercy](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/03/gods-delight-in-displaying-his-mercy/) - This morning, the following prayer from Matthew Henry's A Way to Pray fed my soul and lifted my spirit as it directed my thoughts to the greatness of God's mercy. O our Covenant Lord, you are good and always ready to forgive. You are rich in mercy to all that call on you. You are
- [Let Your Grace Prove Altogether Sufficient](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/04/let-your-grace-prove-altogether-sufficient/) - Fulfil in us all Your good pleasure. Carry forward the work of faith by Your divine power. Since You have begun a good work in us, perform it until the day of Christ Jesus. Gracious Lord, perfect everything that concerns our salvation. Your mercy endures forever. Do not forsake the work of Your own hands.
- [Assure Us that We Are Your Heirs](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/15/assure-us-that-we-are-your-heirs/) - Lord, Allow us to experience joy and gladness so that the bones you have crushed because of our sin may rejoice. Say to each one of us, Son, daughter, celebrate! Your sins are all forgiven! (Ps 51:8; Matt 9:2). Let the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God,
- [Enable Us to Always Open Our Mouth with Wisdom](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/17/enable-us-to-always-open-our-mouth-with-wisdom/) - Lord, enable us to be very careful about everything we say, so that we do not offend either you or men with our tongue. Help us to restrain our mouth as with a horse's bridle, that we may not be too quick to utter whatever comes into our head. Set a watchman right in front
- [Our Spiritual Adoption was Not God's 'Plan B'](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/18/our-spiritual-adoption-was-not-gods-plan-b/) - UPDATE: Never before has one of my blog posts generated so many angry comments, which I have chosen not to publish. So, please let me clarify my purpose in passing on this quotation. The point of this quote from J. Stephen Yuille is to show that man commonly views earthly adoption as an afterthought. However,
- [17 Means to Promote Piety](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/01/07/17-means-to-promote-piety/) - According to J. I. Packer, the Puritans "saw themselves as God's pilgrims traveling home, God's warriors battling against the world, the flesh, and the devil; and God's servants under orders to do all the good they could as they went along." This pilgrim mentality led the Puritans to not only hold on to the things
- [For or Against Psychology?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/24/for-or-against-psychology/) - The word "psychology" brings many different thoughts and images to people's minds. What exactly does it mean, or does it perhaps have many different meanings depending on its use and context? This 10-minute video, posted by the Biblical Counseling Coalition, consists of David Powlison describing the six primary ways the word is used and how
- [Don’t Let Repetitive Sin Keep You from Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/22/dont-let-repetitive-sin-keep-you-from-prayer/) - There are times in our walk with God when we are tempted to think we have sinned one too many times for God to hear us again in prayer. But as humble as this sounds, and seems to us at the moment of prayerlessness, it is in reality a subtle manifestation of our unbelief. For
- [A Servant Leader](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/21/a-servant-leader-guest-testimony/) - Christians today seem to be clamoring for more and more celebrity pastors and superstar authors who receive applause as they arrive at conferences with their entourage, but what the church really needs is more faithful shepherds who are willing to get dirty in the trenches of obscurity and everyday ministry to needy sheep. The following testimony
- [Dump-truck Counseling](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/17/dump-truck-counseling/) - I used to practice “dump-truck counseling.” If one Scriptural concept was helpful to the person I was counseling/discipling then surely an entire truckload would be more helpful. Additionally, unknown to me at the time, I think was fearful that my first meeting with a person may be my only meeting and, therefore, I needed to
- [What Others Have Said about “Counseling One Another” & “Discipling the Flock”](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/17/what-others-are-saying-about-counsel-one-another-counsel-your-flock/) - Here's what some pastors, counselors, and Christian leaders have said about the companion books: Counseling One Another and Discipling the Flock. “These books get it right! Comprehensive and convincing, Counsel One Another and Counsel Your Flock show how true biblical counseling and preaching fit hand-in-glove. Those who preach, teach, or counsel regularly are sure to
- [Do Theological Foundations Matter for Counseling?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/15/do-theological-foundations-matter-for-counseling/) - If we who love the Bible and biblical counseling ever begin to waver on the tenacious holding of the former, while at the same time claim to remain committed to the latter, then we have been seduced by the spirit of this age. If we subtly begin to fudge on the foundation of sound theology
- [Does Our Technology Feed Self-Centered Control?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/12/06/do-your-digital-devices-feed-your-self-centered-control/) - In yesterday’s post I told you that I would finish up my comments on The Next Story: Life and Faith after the Digital Explosion by telling you what I think is the best page in the book and then relate it to a significant issue in counseling. In Chapter 5, Life in the Real World
- [Visiting the Sick](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/08/26/qa-visiting-the-sick/) - A seminary student of mine, who is also a pastor, called this week to ask how to begin a visiting the sick ministry team in his church. Here's the counsel I gave to him: Do the following simultaneously. Teach your congregation that visiting the sick is an every-member-ministry. Just like every cell in the human
- [The Attitude of Gratitude: A Bible Study Suggestion](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/11/21/the-attitude-of-gratitude-a-bible-study-suggestion/) - In our Lord’s Day service yesterday morning we studied Luke 17:11-19 together. In this text, Jesus heals ten lepers, but only one returns to give glory to God by thanking Christ. The root reason the one man returned to thank God, whereas the other nine did not, is that his heart had been changed by
- [Scripture Is Our Personal Trainer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/10/25/scripture-is-our-personal-trainer/) - Scripture is our personal trainer for life and godliness. The apostle Paul declared to his young protégé Timothy that the Scriptures are “breathed out by God” (2 Tim. 3:16), which is a more helpful translation than “inspired.” Rather than the writers of Scripture being inspired to write, it is the Holy Spirit who exhaled the
- [10 Practical Suggestions for People who are Lonely](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/11/02/10-practical-suggestions-for-people-who-are-lonely/) - Yesterday, during a radio interview about dealing with grief and loneliness during the holidays, I mentioned a wonderful resource from Deborah Howard, RN. She writes, "Loneliness takes many forms and its causes are almost endless. There’s loneliness from: Losing a spouse or other loved one. Being alone in a new environment. Being single in what
- [Loneliness During the Holidays](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/11/07/loneliness-during-the-holidays/) - Holidays can be the loneliest time of the year for some people. Small or large gatherings often serve as fresh reminders of who's not there. Whether caused by death, divorce, or something else, the pain of the empty chair is very real. Of this, Deborah Howard writes, "Some might say they can never get over
- [3 Reasons that I Published Another Book on Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/11/28/3-reasons-i-published-another-book-on-prayer/) - Prayerlessness may be the most serious sin problem in the church today. Why do I say that? Because the absence of prayer is fueled by prideful independence, which God actively opposes (James 4:6). Who among us wants to be a practical enemy of God? I don’t think any of us would answer “Yes.” And yet,
- [Living By Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/01/03/living-by-prayer-2/) - O GOD OF THE OPEN EAR, Teach me to live by prayer as well as by providence, for myself, soul, body, children, family, church; Give me a heart frameable to thy will; so might I live in prayer, and honour thee, being kept from evil, known and unknown. Help me to see the sin that
- [What Is Addiction?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/01/05/what-is-addiction/) - The word addiction is now a regular part of our vocabulary. But what does it mean? How might we define it biblically? Most simply, addiction may be defined as voluntary enslavement (Romans 6:12-13). Our voluntary surrender to fleshly desires becomes more important than glorifying God and, when repeated enough, results in enslavement. When enslavement becomes
- [5 Reasons to Practice Church Discipline](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/01/25/5-reasons-to-practice-church-discipline/) - Although in recent decades the biblical expectation of church discipline has fallen on hard times, there is a renewed understanding of its importance and practice among those whose desire for a faithful church is greater than their desire for a popular church. This is one of many reasons I'm so thankful for the ministry of
- [8 Advantages of Heart-Changing, Expository Preaching](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/02/08/8-advantages-of-heart-changing-expository-preaching/) - Gospel ministry has been the main vocation of my life for over 25 years and expository preaching has been the main part of my calling. Therefore, I am continually blessed and challenged to read books that aim to help guys like me. One book, which I read last week along with our pastoral intern, is
- [Evaluate Your Definition of "Discipleship"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/03/28/evaluate-your-definition-of-discipleship/) - "Disciples, discipleship, discipling, disciple-making. These words are such an established part of conversation about ministry and church life that we rarely pause to consider what we actually mean by them," write Colin Marshall and Tony Payne in The Vine Project: Shaping your Ministry Culture around Disciple-Making." As their follow-up to the very popular book, The
- [Pondering the Horrors of Hell](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/04/05/pondering-the-horrors-of-hell/) - “A lot of Christians today want to say, ‘Surely it is better to think of hell as a place where there will be some temporary punishments until eventually people simply lose all consciousness: annihilation.’ Others think that it is manipulative and cruel to think of hell at all: ‘Just talk about the love of God.’”
- [Mother's Day Gift Book Recommendations](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/05/05/mothers-day-gift-book-recommendations/) - Gospel Meditations for Mothers - A new 31-day devotional in my favorite series of devotional booklets from Church Works Media. Devoted: Great Men and their Godly Moms - by Tim Challies For the Love of Discipline: When the Gospel Meets Tantrums and Time-outs - a new book from Sara Wallace at Gospel-Centered Mom God's High
- [God's Backhoe](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/07/19/gods-backhoe/) - "Delaying the fulfillment of our dreams seems to be part of refining and rescuing ambition," writes Dave Harvey in Rescuing Ambition, which I finished reading while on vacation last week. It's a really helpful book about the lost virtue of godly ambition and its contrast with sinful self-ambition. In one chapter, Harvey talks about how
- ["Discipling the Flock" on TGC's Featured Book List](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/09/06/discipling-the-flock-on-tgcs-featured-book-list/) - Yesterday, I was honored to see "Discipling the Flock" included on The Gospel Coalition's list of New Books You Should Know. Here's the brief review: Church elders need focus. Their work must be shaped in every way by the priorities and responsibilities given them by the Chief Shepherd himself. That’s what Paul Tautges writes to
- [Every Pastor, Counselor, and Ministry Leader (and every Christian) Should Read this Little Book](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/11/20/every-pastor-counselor-and-ministry-leader-and-every-christian-should-read-this-little-book/) - This past May, at the Basics Conference at Parkside Church, I picked up a copy of a new book from Reformation Heritage Books. The book’s simple, one-word title caught my eye. Nothing in my memory indicated that I'd ever seen a book on this topic: Graciousness. So, I thought, “Why have I never seen a
- [Strength Equal to 2019](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/01/strength-equal-to-the-task/) - This brief post is from C. H. Spurgeon's devotional Checkbook of Faith. I was encouraged. I hope you will be, too. "Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be" (Deuteronomy 33:25). Here are two things provided for the pilgrim: shoes and strength. As for the shoes: they
- [GRIEF SEMINAR: Hope and Healing for Life's Hurts](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/21/seminar-hope-and-healing-for-lifes-hurts/) - Loss comes in many forms: loss through the death of a spouse, child, or other loved one; loss of relationships through conflict, betrayal, estrangement, divorce, or a move across the country; loss of financial security due to business failure, foreclosure, or long-term unemployment; loss of health or personal dreams because of disability or terminal illness.
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/29/nuggets-81/) - Want to Be like Jesus? Be Gentle. - "As we picture what it means to man up and be a leader in the home and in the church, gentleness isn’t, for many of us, a defining element of that picture." Wrestling with Forgiveness - "It is only when Christ truly lives in us that we
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/06/15/nuggets-36/) - Here's some articles I encourage you to read this weekend. Thoughts on Being a Father - Tedd Tripp reflects on 1 Thessalonians 2, drawing truths about a faithful father's example and instruction. 5 Marks of a Servant Leader - What traits do we look for in a leader that suggest his fundamental orientation is Christlike
- [9Marks Weekender](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/05/21/9marks-weekender/) - It’s been silent here at the blog for a couple days because I’ve been immersed in the 9Marks Weekender at Capital Hill Baptist Church in Washington, DC. For several years, I have wanted to attend this four-day event, but made a commitment to myself that I would not go until I could bring another church
- [Avoid Two Distortions of Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/03/02/avoid-two-distortions-of-grace/) - The heart motivation behind Jesus’ teaching ministry was His love for God and others. This explains why, when He saw how the external, law-keeping approach to spirituality placed unbearable burdens upon others, He spoke against them (Luke 11:37-46). But He also warned against a loose view of the commandments of God by exalting the listening
- [Features and Fruits of Heavenly Wisdom](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/07/13/features-and-fruits-of-heavenly-wisdom/) - Godly wisdom stands in stark contrast to earthly wisdom. First, we saw this in James' admiration of the meekness of wisdom. Then we learned what hellish wisdom looks like and the rotten fruit it produces. Today, we wrap up this 3-part series by taking a look at heavenly wisdom which comes from God. In contrast
- [Together Forever](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/05/06/together-forever/) - And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.” (Revelation 21:3) Together…with God…forever. Just imagine! There, in the city of God, all believers will
- [Four New Lifeline Mini-Books](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/25/four-new-lifeline-mini-books/) - Today, I'm thrilled to make you aware of the four newest members of the Lifeline mini-book family, which are now available for pre-order and will ship late March or early April. HELP! I'm Addicted - Everybody knows somebody who is addicted to something. But maybe addiction is more personal for you. Maybe you once had
- [Sufficient for Life and Godliness (1 of 5)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/10/23/sufficient-for-life-and-godliness-1-of-5/) - We who minister the Word to one another; i.e. counsel, in whatever place and form God has called us, spend significant time with people whose lives, by their own admission, are badly broken. We listen to stories of marriages on the brink of divorce or accounts of childhood abuse that are too horrific to describe
- [Why "Happy Wife, Happy Life" Will Make You and Your Wife Miserable](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/03/30/why-happy-wife-happy-life-will-make-you-and-your-wife-miserable/) - Comedian Jeff Allen has recently capitalized on a humorous and catchy little modern proverb: "Happy wife, happy life." His comedy is compelling, and his style engaging, but, like many catchphrases in Christian pop culture, his seemingly harmless comedy actually communicates falsehood. The truth is, the idea of "Happy wife, happy life" is not found in
- [Presence Is the Program](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/23/presence-is-the-program/) - What do you think of when you think of “the church”? Some people, of course, think of a building. They equate the church with the classic stained glass windows, and pews. Others know that the “right answer” is people, the body of Christ, and they love to correct anyone who gets this question wrong. But
- [Why the Psychological Church Will Always End Up Diminishing the Cross of Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/06/14/why-the-psychological-church-will-always-end-up-diminishing-the-cross-of-christ/) - In 1 Corinthians 1:17, the apostle Paul establishes the preaching of Christ as his highest priority. He does this to turn the Corinthians’ attention away from humanistic philosophy to “the word of the cross.” Take a moment to read the full context in 1 Corinthians 1:18-25. Here, Paul exalts the wisdom of Christ over the
- [Your Faith Is More Precious than Gold](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/16/your-faith-is-more-precious-than-gold/) - In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1
- [ANXIETY: Knowing God's Peace (31-Day Devotional)](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/01/anxiety-knowing-gods-peace-a-31-day-devotional/) - IT'S FINALLY HERE! One of the writing projects that you've been praying about is officially released TODAY. ANXIETY: Knowing God’s Peace is a 31-day devotional from P&R Publishing. I wrote this book to encourage all of us to think more deeply about what is going on in our hearts when we are anxious, and to
- [A Small Book for the Hurting Heart: Meditations on Loss, Grief, and Healing](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/17/a-small-book-for-the-hurting-heart-meditations-on-loss-grief-and-healing/) - I'm pleased to let you that New Growth Press has informed me that my new 50-day devotional is available for pre-order. In March 2019, when I turned in the manuscript, I had no idea that we would lose a father and a granddaughter---between then and now--- as well as experience other hurts and trials that
- [Pastoral Prayer Is an Important Part of Corporate Worship](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/14/pastoral-prayer-is-an-important-part-of-corporate-worship/) - As evangelical churches become increasingly user-friendly in an attempt to reach their world for Christ, one of the aspects of corporate worship that has fallen on hard times is what is customarily known as the pastoral prayer. This longer time of prayer (about five to seven minutes in my church) is a very important part
- [Joseph’s Theology of Providence – A Bible Study for You](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/10/05/josephs-theology-of-providence-a-bible-study-for-you/) - Yesterday, I taught a breakout session at the 40th annual ACBC Conference in Indianapolis. My session was entitled Joseph’s Theology of Providence. I’ve put it into outline form for your personal or small group study. What Is Providence? The providence of God is one of the most comforting doctrines in the Bible. By providence, we
- [Counseling Training in Sioux Falls, SD](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/01/12/counseling-training-in-sioux-falls-sd/) - ACBC is heading back to the Midwest and will be offering the Advanced Methodology Track and Fundamentals Track in Sioux Falls. Join us to become equipped to counsel and disciple others. Faith Baptist Fellowship will host three weekends of training: March 23-24, April 27-28, and May 18-19. The weekends include: 30 hours of training from
- [Counselor's Toolbox](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/13/counselors-toolbox/) - I've been reminded recently of a unique and fairly new continued-learning guide built by the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC). The Counselor's Toolbox is a box of resources shipped directly to your door 4x/year. Inside every box you will find a book recommended by ACBC, along with an exclusive Companion Guide to lead you
- [Free ACBC Conference Live Stream](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/10/02/free-acbc-conference-live-stream/) - Yesterday afternoon, I flew to Jacksonville, Florida for the annual ACBC Conference which begins today. This year's conference is being live streamed at no cost, thanks to the Master's University for which I am privileged to teach as an adjunct professor. The theme for the conference is Faithfully Protestant, which is reflected by the main
- [Accepting Your “New Normal” after Someone You Love Dies by Suicide](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/13/accepting-your-new-normal-after-someone-you-love-dies-by-suicide/) - As dark as life gets when you lose someone to suicide, you can truly experience hope. You may have serious doubts today, and wonder how you can possibly go on, but you will survive. Your life will never be the same—that is true. Fellow survivor Albert Hsu wrote, Those of us who have experienced the
- [3 Podcasts to Listen to this Week](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/10/3-podcasts-to-listen-to-this-week/) - Almost every morning, I go to the local high school to use their indoor track to walk. When the weather is nice then I walk outdoors, but this is Ohio...and it's winter. Here are three recent podcasts that blessed me this past week. Remembering George Scipione: A Tribute - This especially blessed me, since George
- [Making the Church a Safe Place for Sorrow](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/12/11/making-the-church-a-safe-place-for-sorrow/) - Sometimes worship comes by way of weeping in the pew. When the broken enter the sanctuary of God on Sunday mornings, they do so, perhaps, with every fiber of their being tempting them to withdrawal. They drag their grief, depression, and sorrow behind them like a ball and chain, plodding along to their seats with
- [3 Podcast Interviews that Parents & Grandparents Should Listen to this Week](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/13/3-podcast-interviews-that-parents-should-listen-to-this-week/) - How to Talk to Your Depressed Child - I enjoyed listening to this radio interview with Christine Chappell, author of the forthcoming mini-book HELP! My Teen Is Depressed (coming March 2020). Parenting and the Bullied Child - On this Truth in Love podcast episode, Tim Keeter addresses the issue of bullying, specifically how to disciple
- [Hope & Help for Victims of Abuse](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/08/13/hope-help-for-victims-of-abuse/) - “Abuse is a growing problem. In 2007 there were over three million reported cases of child abuse in the United States, involving as many as six million children. Estimates of the number of incidents of domestic violence range from just under a million to several million per year. It is estimated that one in four
- [HOPE + HELP for Anxious Hearts](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/22/the-hope-help-project-podcast/) - What is anxiety? How do we turn from our fears to the Lord? And how do we fight against the anxieties that don't seem to let up? These questions and more are answered in this podcast interview that I had the privilege of doing with Christine Chappell on The HOPE + HELP Project podcast. The
- [From a Deacon's Heart: Just Say It!](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/01/07/from-a-deacons-heart-just-say-it/) - [Today’s post is written by a guest---one of the deacons in our church.] Awhile back the men in my small group were discussing the need to be husbands who honor our wives. I don’t remember the context, but I do remember a specific encouragement for men to be deliberate in expressing their love. The overwhelming
- [The Depression Epidemic Revisited](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/06/26/the-depression-epidemic-revisited/) - [Today’s guest post is written by Jonathan Holmes, counseling pastor at Parkside Church in Cleveland, Ohio.] Recently, Christianity Today linked to an article by Dan Blazer, which was originally part of a larger issue (March 2009- The Depression Epidemic). Four years later, one can read this article and see that there is still much work
- ["Fifty Shades of Grey" Dispels an Old Myth](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/02/10/fifty-shades-of-grey-dispels-an-old-myth/) - The best-selling book Fifty Shades of Grey dispels the old myth that women do not use pornography, that it’s a “man’s problem.” Forever we’ve heard the claim that women are “not turned on by sight.” But the popularity of Fifty Shades of Grey reveals how pornography captivates women, too. In fact, it may captivate them
- [10 Ways to Strengthen the Partnership between Home and Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/03/20/10-ways-to-strengthen-the-partnership-between-home-and-church/) - A strong partnership between the home and the church is essential in helping develop young disciples. Children’s Ministry in general, and especially Sunday School, is one format of discipleship that offers a unique opportunity to bring the joy of the gospel to the younger generation. A strong partnership of parents (and grandparents) and Sunday School staff
- [95 Affirmations for Gospel-Centered Counseling](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/10/17/95-affirmations-for-gospel-centered-counseling/) - [Today's guest post is written by my friend and fellow BCC board member, Bob Kellemen.] On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his now famous 95 Theses to the door of the All Saints’ Church in Wittenberg, Germany. In doing so, Luther was launching a reformation in how the church understood the gospel of Christ’s
- [Hope for the Panic-Stricken](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/15/hope-for-the-panic-stricken/) - [If you struggle with panic and anxiety the following true testimony from a young lady will be an encouragement to you.] “I have often struggled with worry, anxiety and fear. When I was younger, my anxiety focused on what others thought of me, which resulted in feelings of panic that surfaced when I couldn’t control
- [A Daughter's Hero "Dies"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/12/13/guest-post-a-daughters-hero-dies-because-of-porn/) - "Thousands of thoughts were whirling around in my eleven-year-old head. But one thing was for sure, Daddy was not my hero anymore." [The following letter is from a female reader who prefers to remain anonymous.] People have told me that when I was little all I wanted to be was just like my dad. When
- [The Lord Is Dealing with My Bitterness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/12/21/readers-testimony-the-lord-is-dealing-with-my-bitterness/) - [This letter comes from a female reader of this blog who wishes to remain anonymous.] Hello Paul, Your audio sermon "Bitter Root, Rotten Fruit" struck a chord with me tonight. I've been earnestly praying to deal with my bitter root and sense of entitlement to a peaceful environment. I live in a duplex, in an
- [DADs 2:2 - Teaching Our Kids to Manage Money](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/01/30/teaching-our-kids-to-manage-money/) - At my request---as part of our Dads Are Disciplers strategy (DADs)---the following testimony was submitted by Daniel Schilling, a young husband and father who is thankful for the example and training he received from his father concerning money management. At the end of the post, you will find the link to a series of articles providing
- [Betrayal](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/09/10/guest-post-betrayal/) - Betrayal. One word. Three syllables. A dictionary full of pain - a world of hurt that many know only too well. A broken confidence. A ruined relationship. A shattered heart. Betrayal comes to all and when it comes it comes out of nowhere -- a tidal wave of hurt wiping away what we once thought
- [The Greatest Physician](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/08/the-greatest-physician/) - One of the aspects of this blog ministry I did not anticipate is the interaction I would have with readers via email or posted comments. This has been a tremendous encouragement to me as we strive together to grow in our effectiveness as ministers of God’s truth and grace to one another. The letter below
- [Adulteress--Proofing Your Marriage, Pt. 2](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/10/adulteress-proofing-your-marriage-pt-2/) - [In yesterday's post the focus of attention was on the practical put off/put on disciplines that aid in the protection of the purity of our marriages. Today, I've asked counselor and Pastor at Pembine Community Bible Church, Dave Coats, to address the deeper issue, that of our heart's greatest affection. Read Dave's excellent words.] Let
- [Jesus Is Better than Alcohol](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/14/jesus-is-better-than-alcohol-guest-testimony/) - [The following testimony is written by a new believer at our local church. What a great example of the biblical principle that it is peace with God---through faith in Christ---that produces the peace of God!] For the past twenty years, I’ve traveled to many parts of the world as a result of my job responsibilities.
- [Grandma was Faithful to the End](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/03/13/grandma-was-faithful-to-the-end-guest-testimony/) - [Today's post is written by a woman in our church whose grandmother recently went to be with the Lord. What a wonderful testimony of the impact of a godly woman! After reading take a moment to meditate on the applicable Scriptures listed.] So many memories of my grandmother stand out in my mind: her godly speech
- [To Die is Gain](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/04/25/to-die-is-gain-guest-poem/) - At a funeral service this week, a young woman from our church read the poem she had written in memory of her father-in-law who came to repentant faith in Jesus during the final month of his life. Sometimes the storms of life set in and it seems there’s endless rain. When all is done and
- [O Refuge Near](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/04/26/o-refuge-near-guest-poem/) - O refuge near, our strength in weakness, forever in His hands secure; Emmanuel, God always with us, Almighty One within my soul. I’ll never fear the roaring waters; the tempests know the One in me. The hands that hold the stars in motion are holding me in love and care. Consider well His lovingkindness; He
- [What Is Your Faith Culture?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/06/21/5252/) - Today, many experts in the Church are weighing on the best way to transfer faith from generation to generation. Personally, I think much of the hand-wringing misses a central point: that every human being enters the world with a depraved heart set against God. Only a work of the Spirit can awaken what is dead
- [When Parental Expectations Collide With the Gospel](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/07/05/when-parental-expectations-collide-with-the-gospel-guest-post/) - [Today's post is from Daniel Darling, Senior Pastor of Gages Lake Bible Church in the northwest suburbs of Chicago.] It’s hard to understate the passion of first-generation believers. These are believers who were converted to Christianity during their adulthood, many of whom were miraculously released from the chains of sin and the world and are now
- [Comfort for Oppressed Souls](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/01/30/comfort-for-oppressed-souls-guest-post/) - “As the deer pants for the water so my soul longs after you. You alone are my heart’s desire and I long to worship you.” This song is commonly sung without realizing that it is based on a Psalm describing intense suffering. The intense heat of life causes intense thirst that, if dealt with properly,
- [NUGGETS - Modesty, Sexual Exploitation, and the Super Bowl](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/04/nuggets-modesty-and-the-super-bowl/) - As in past years, so I did again. As soon as halftime arrived, I grabbed the TV remote and switched to another channel. So, I've not seen the halftime show described in these first two links, and will not watch recordings of it. As Franklin Graham points out, we should not expect unbelievers to act
- [Cream from Al Mohler’s Book on Leadership](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/08/14/cream-from-al-mohlers-book-on-leadership/) - Leadership books focusing merely on pragmatic managerial principles abound, but few examine the heart, mind, and character of the leader from a biblical perspective. That’s where Albert Mohler’s newest book comes in. The Conviction to Lead: 25 Principles for Leadership that Matters is his best work so far. Here is a clear, passionate call to
- [The Family of God Is Everything](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/02/03/the-family-of-god-is-everything/) - The family of God is the only family that will last forever. For this reason, the Scriptures exhort us to do good to the household of faith. The “household of faith” is a phrase that is used in the Bible to refer to the spiritual family of Jesus Christ; that is, those who have been
- [A Rehab Center for Weak and Broken Sinners](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/30/a-rehab-center-for-sinners/) - One of my dreams and goals for our church is that we become a hospital and rehabilitation center for sinners—a place where sinners like each of us may live in an atmosphere of grace, where we love and worship Jesus our Savior, and continue to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit to live more and
- [DADs 2:3 - The Worth of a Homemaker](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/02/04/dads-23-the-worth-of-a-homemaker/) - Matt Smethurst has posted an interesting article, "How Much Is a Homemaker Worth?" Guys, it's pretty obvious we could never afford to hire our wives! He writes: The Story: A study conducted by the financial service company Investopedia found that the sum value of different homemaking duties annually amounts to almost six figures. If a homemaker's job were salaried, it would
- [Accepted by God and Reconciled by Jesus](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/03/09/accepted-by-god-and-reconciled-by-jesus/) - Each time we are overcome by the depths of our sin against God, or the suffering it brings into our own lives and the lives of others, we are graciously granted an opportunity from God to run once again into the arms of our only true source of hope—Jesus. There is no hope anywhere else.
- [A Poorly Dressed Beggar](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/08/01/a-poorly-dressed-beggar/) - “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it. ‘If you love me, you will keep my commandments.’” There is a great promise from the Lord here. We should ask God to do the
- [Flashback Friday - A Poorly Dressed Beggar](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/08/12/flashback-friday-a-poorly-dressed-beggar/) - “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it. ‘If you love me, you will keep my commandments.’” There is a great promise from the Lord here. We should ask God to do the
- [Four Ways to Understand Spiritual Warfare Biblically](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/28/four-ways-to-understand-spiritual-warfare-biblically/) - “Did you know that the term spiritual warfare never appears in Scripture?” asks David Powlison in his exceptional little book, Safe & Sound: Standing Firm in Spiritual Battles. He goes on to explain that spiritual warfare is a pastoral-theological term describing the conflict occurring at the heart of the Christian life. For good, biblical, and
- [Anxiety Seminar at Mercy Hill Chapel in Parma, Ohio](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/24/anxiety-seminar-at-mercy-hill-chapel-in-parma-ohio/) - Anxiety is a persistent part of our human condition. It’s so common that an estimated 23 million Americans suffer from panic attacks, while millions more identify themselves as having some form of anxiety disorder. It is, therefore, helpful to realize how honestly the Scriptures: uncover this side of human experience, shed light on the effect
- [10 Quotes about Spiritual Warfare from David Powlison’s Final Book](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/23/10-quotes-about-spiritual-warfare-from-david-powlisons-final-book/) - Last summer David Powlison, a personal mentor and friend, was taken into the presence of the Lord. In the final months of his battle against cancer he used the energy he had left to give us one more gift. Safe & Sound: Standing Firm in Spiritual Battles is a treasure of practical theology about the
- [NUGGETS: Abortion, Forgiveness, & Gospel Hope](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/17/nuggets-abortion-gospel-hope/) - "Sanctity of Human Life Sunday" is January 19, 2020. In light of this, I thought I'd share a few articles. Praying for Abortionists and Those in the Abortion Industry Makes an Eternal Difference - “I wonder what would happen if people showed up in droves to simply stand and pray outside all the abortion clinics
- [Reflections on the Life and Death of Our Newborn Granddaughter](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/14/reflections-on-the-life-and-death-of-our-newborn-granddaughter/) - One month ago, on December 14, 2019, our sixth grandchild was born. The 31-weeks of life she enjoyed in the safety of her mother’s womb continued for about 45 minutes after birth. Then she was escorted into the arms of her Creator and Savior. Since that day, I’ve wanted to write down some of my
- [Recent Review of "ANXIETY: Knowing God's Peace"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/15/recent-review-of-anxiety-knowing-gods-peace/) - Life is scary. As soon as we wake up in the morning, we are bombarded by all the anxiety-producing demands we place on ourselves or that are imposed upon us by others. Frightening things happen that lead to anxiety, including violence in our cities and nation, political and racial division, terminal health reports, financial strain,
- [Our Top 10 Blog Posts of 2019](https://counselingoneanother.com/2020/01/08/our-top-10-blog-posts-of-2019/) - I'm a week behind everyone else in posting a "best of" last year, but here it is. TEN: 6 Reasons to Be a Faithful Member of a Local ChurchNINE: Exposing the Sin of OvereatingEIGHT: What Is Sacrificial Giving?SEVEN: 5 Reasons God Prunes UsSIX: Avoid Taking Communion in an "Unworthy Manner"FIVE: When Jesus Confronts "Borderline Personality
- [When Jesus Confronts "Borderline Personality Disorder"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/07/09/when-jesus-confronts-borderline-personality-disorder/) - Here's an encouraging 7-minute video that exalts Jesus who came to set us free and reshape our entire lives. "The people who get this label [Borderline Personality Disorder] are really stuck. These are deep, deep weeds to live your life in. You can also see that the solution, in Christ, (can and does, when genuine) cuts
- [A Prayer for a New Year](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/12/31/a-prayer-for-a-new-year/) - NEW YEAR, O LORD,Length of days does not profit me except the days are passedin thy presence, in thy service, to thy glory.Give me a grace that precedes, follows, guides, sustains,sanctifies, aids every hour,that I may not be one moment apart from thee,but may rely on thy Spiritto supply every thought,speak in every word,direct every
- [Plough Deep in Me, Great Lord](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/08/21/plough-deep-in-me-great-lord/) - LORD JESUS, Give me a deeper repentance, a horror of sin; a dread of its approach; Help me chastely flee it, and jealously to resolve that my heart shall be thine alone. Give me a deeper trust, that I may lose myself to find myself in thee, the ground of my rest, the spring of
- [Continue in Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/01/continue-in-prayer/) - Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. (Colossians 4:2) Maybe you always know how to pray. I don’t. There are times I can’t find words. Times I can’t seem to articulate my needs to God, especially in times of grief and loss. But at the same time, I want to obey the
- [Valley of Vision - AUDIO](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/05/27/valley-of-vision-audio/) - Valley of Vision, a collection of Puritan prayers and devotions, has been a significant blessing in my personal, devotional life for many years. But a couple weeks ago, when I had to spend the good part of a day on the road, I was again blessed by the audio version. Listening to these thoughts and
- [Why "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing" Is My Favorite Christmas Carol](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/12/24/why-hark-the-herald-angels-sing-is-my-favorite-christmas-carol/) - I will never forget the first time I sang Hark! the Herald Angels Sing as a genuine believer in Jesus Christ. It was Christmas 1984. I had been saved about seven months. Though I had sung the carol my whole life, for the first time I understood the words I was singing and could feel
- [Stay Out of the Ditches](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/12/09/stay-out-of-the-ditches/) - When I was a sophomore in high school, I learned how to drive a car. After I passed the required driver’s education class that fall semester, I enrolled in the behind-the-wheel part of the training. Learning to drive my dad’s 1973 Pontiac Catalina, with its 400 cubic-inch V-8, was more than a little fun. But
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/10/05/nuggets-2/) - Asking Too Much from Your Children - "No spouse, no child can provide comfort that can only be found in God. God will have no other gods before him. Your first loyalty must be to God and God alone." 3 Ways To Be Ready for the Best Evangelistic Opportunity this Year - Alistair Begg exhorts
- [Why Christmas?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/11/17/why-christmas/) - Why do we celebrate Christmas? Most children do not know the true answer to that question or why God sent Jesus to live on earth. Why Christmas? is a helpful devotional that I received in the mail this week from Shepherd Press and read through this morning. Complete with a daily Scripture reading, memory verse,
- [What Christmas Ought to Suggest](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/12/25/what-christmas-ought-to-suggest/) - Virtually every December, I take off the shelf my favorite Christmas book; God with Us: The Miracle of Christmas by John MacArthur. I still remember where I was when I first saw and purchased the book. I was standing in the entryway to the college bookstore during fall semester 1989, gazing at the new arrivals
- [Tears at Christmas](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/12/10/tears-for-christmas/) - Dear grieving friend, This will be your first Christmas since your loved one passed away. It will be hard. Believe me, I know. Six years ago, today, my mom unexpectedly passed away---slipping away from us before we could say goodbye. Our first Christmas without her was so hard. We cried, we reminisced, we cried, we
- [Gospel Meditations for Christmas](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/12/13/gospel-meditations-for-christmas/) - Gospel Meditations for Christmas is hot off the press, as part of the 31-day devotional series from the Christ-centered writers at Church Works Media. Here's the endorsement that I wrote for this new advent resource: “Rich, warm, beautiful! This book overflows with Scripture-saturated thoughts that will rivet your attention to the good news of Jesus
- [Grieve with Hope](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/30/grieve-with-hope/) - But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. (1 Thessalonians 4:13) All people grieve, but Christians grieve differently. All people experience sadness, but Christians are “sorrowful, yet always rejoicing” (2 Corinthians 6:10). Why is that? All
- [The One Who Looks After You](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/24/the-one-who-looks-after-you/) - So she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, “You are a God of seeing,” for she said, “Truly here I have seen him who looks after me.” (Genesis 16:13) God hears and sees you in the midst of your pain, and will always look after you. No matter what your grief,
- [Why Every Sunday Is #GivingSunday](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/12/06/why-every-sunday-is-givingsunday/) - As grateful as we should be for the generosity and charitable giving of thousands of Americans on what has annually become known as #GivingTuesday, I am even more thankful for the New Testament pattern of faithfulness taught by the apostles and modeled by believers bringing their offerings to the Lord, weekly, as part of their
- [5 Reasons God Brings Calamity](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/05/16/5-reasons-god-brings-calamity/) - Other than the Psalms, which deal with life in such raw honesty, there hardly seems a better place to turn when in the midst of trials than the book of Job. Job lost everything in a matter of moments; his health, material possessions, wealth, and ten children. Yet, remarkably, “He did not sin with his
- [God Has Not Forgotten You](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/05/god-has-not-forgotten-you/) - Has God forgotten to be gracious? (Psalm 77:9) The pain of loss can lead you to feel alone, even forgotten. The lack of answers to your Why questions. A lack of a sense of what society calls closure; that is, the acceptance of what has happened and the transition to something new. The drying up
- [FREE SEMINAR: Sexuality, Gender Identity, and the Gospel](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/12/03/free-seminar-sexuality-gender-identity-and-the-gospel/) - Our culture is becoming increasingly confused about all matters related to sexuality and gender. And this confusion is slowly but surely creeping into otherwise solid churches and Christian homes. Now, more than ever, biblical clarity, conviction, and leadership on these issues is vital! This seminar, offered by the Cornerstone Biblical Counseling Ministry, will provide clarity
- [‘Warning Lights’ of Self-Righteousness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/08/03/4-warning-lights-of-self-righteousness/) - For many years, the Lord has been patiently and gradually showing me signs of the self-righteousness that hides in the deep recesses of my depraved heart. He began many years ago, and continues today. Sometime in the past year, a friend of mine gave me one of his extra copies of Extreme Righteousness: Seeing Ourselves
- [10 Enduring Qualities of Scripture](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/10/10/10-enduring-qualities-of-scripture/) - This week, I’ve been blogging about a new resource from Joel James entitled Counsel with Confidence. The following is drawn from the third chapter, "Sufficiency of Scripture." A sound theology of Scripture includes a recognition of ten enduring qualities of Scripture. Inspired (2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21). The Bible is utterly unique because God
- [Thanksgiving Is a Daily Discipline](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/27/thanksgiving-is-a-spiritual-discipline/) - “In everything give thanks” is God’s command to every believer (1 Thess. 5:18). We must be told this because by nature we are not thankful people. It is more natural for sinners like us to complain and be ungrateful. Regrettably, Jerry Bridges is correct when he writes, “We are anxious to receive but too careless
- [3 Qualities of an Encourager](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/08/17/3-qualities-of-an-encourager/) - Have you ever experienced the power of encouragement? I can remember many times over the years when God provided faithful believers who were “others-focused” enough to come alongside and strengthen my hands for His work. The Apostle Paul had such a man by his side, by the name of Onesiphorus. He is one of the
- [Bye, Bye Debt---Hello, Freedom](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/01/05/bye-bye-debt-hello-freedom/) - Today is a glorious day for my wife and me! After 41 long months of intentional, aggressive debt reduction we are free of credit card debt for the first time in a long, long time (the weary memory is very foggy). We are so thankful to the Lord for the perseverance and encouragement He has
- [What’s Wrong with a Little Gambling?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/20/whats-wrong-with-a-little-gambling/) - Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value, but righteousness delivers from death.Proverbs 10:2 Many people dream of winning the lottery. In 2016, Americans spent over seventy billion dollars on lotteries alone. Total gambling losses in the United States are estimated at over one hundred forty billion dollars a year. What does this say about the way
- [Take Advantage of Teachable Moments with Children, and Use them as Gospel Opportunities](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/19/take-advantage-of-teachable-moments-with-children-and-use-them-as-gospel-opportunities/) - In Sunday School, a boy makes a disparaging remark about another boy. A girl reveals private information in the classroom. Another child does or says something embarrassing. While each of these situations may be challenging and uncomfortable to us, they can be wonderful teaching opportunities. As parents and teachers, most of us have encountered one
- [Will You Pray for Me and My Next Book?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/16/will-you-pray-for-me-and-my-next-book/) - Dear Friend, The fact that you are reading this post is a great encouragement to me. Writing, for me, is a necessity---a means to personal growth and soul survival in this fallen world. It's part of the way that God has wired me, in order to help me to refine my thinking processes. Knowing this,
- [4 Ways to Pray When Bad News Comes](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/07/18/4-ways-to-pray-when-bad-news-comes/) - When you receive bad news what is your first response? Do you get angry? Do you get depressed? Or do you experience a little of both? Does disappointment provoke you to become angry with God or others whom you perceive to get in your way? Do you panic? How do you respond when bad things
- [Q&A - Spanking and Tantrums](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/08/05/qa-spanking-for-tantrums/) - Periodically, questions are submitted to this blog by email. Since this Q&A interchange will surely help others, in addition to the one who posed the question, I will sometimes post answers here in generic form. Here's a few questions from a young couple concerning child discipline issues and the counsel that was given. "We just
- [Nuggets](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/11/nuggets-85/) - When Should I Buy a New Car? - Thinking of buying a new car? Read this wise and helpful counsel. Should I Give or Get Out of Debt? - Another wise and godly response from Chuck Bentley. 12 Benefits of Thanksgiving - "The act of giving thanks is perhaps one of the most underrated actions
- [75 Astonishing Works that God Performs in Our Salvation](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/08/75-astonishing-things-that-happen-at-conversion/) - What words could we use to describe God's grace toward sinners like us? Amazing? Yes. Extravagant? For sure. Astonishing? Absolutely! The apostle Paul was a man who never got over the grace of God...and neither should we. As the Holy Spirit guided him along, he edified the believers at Ephesus by expounding on "the immeasurable
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/04/23/nuggets-60/) - When Truth Doesn't Seem to Work - "Ultimately, it is God’s Word that transforms as the Holy Spirit does His work, but we must make it our goal to fuel faith in Christ and worship of Christ by bringing truth to bear on people’s lives at a level that is understandable, practical, and personal." What
- [3 Reasons to Shun the Gospel According to Works](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/22/3-reasons-to-shun-the-gospel-according-to-works/) - The gospel of grace is true and magnifies the works of God. The gospel of works is false and magnifies the efforts man. The gospel of grace runs against-the-grain of man’s innate pride and sense of self-achievement—giving evidence of the depth of his depravity and inability to save himself. The gospel of works floats downstream,
- [Jesus Became a Curse for Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/23/jesus-became-a-curse-for-us/) - If a man has committed a sin worthy of death and he is put to death, and you hang him on a tree, his corpse shall not hang all night on the tree, but you shall surely bury him on the same day (for he who is hanged is accursed of God), so that you
- ["Wobble is not good" and Four More Favorite Quotes from "He Is Able"](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/24/wobble-is-not-good-and-four-more-favorite-quotes-from-he-is-able/) - Last week, I posted a brief review of John Kitchen's new book, He Is Able. This morning, while in a hospital waiting room, I paged through the book again, rereading my highlighted sentences. Here are five of my favorites. The amen of your obedience tamps the soil of truth around your life, fixing you firmly
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/23/nuggets-80/) - The Attributes of God: Faithful - Lara d'Entremont writes: "Even the most loyal person is still an imperfect human being. But God is perfect in all His ways, including His faithfulness. What can we proclaim, other than God is trustworthy?" MONEY: Seeking God's Wisdom - I was blessed and helped by this podcast interview that
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/01/nuggets-82/) - "What Do Christians Put on Their Headstones?" - Rosa and Lydia’s growth in grace and their sincere desire to honor the Lord is a tremendous encouragement. But their story is also emblematic of the question faced by first-generation believers all over Croatia. “How should we break from old traditions—and even establish new ones—for the glory
- [Nuggets](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/06/nuggets-83/) - Insufficient Evidence that Cannabinoids Improve Mental Health - "The most comprehensive analysis of medicinal cannabinoids and their impact on six mental health disorders -- combining 83 studies including 3,000 people -- suggests that the use of cannabinoids for mental health conditions cannot be justified based on the current evidence." Beth Moore Attacks Biblical Gender Roles
- [Nuggets](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/07/nuggets-84/) - Here are two articles and two podcast episodes that are filled with sound counsel: Manage Your Household Well - “One of the greatest needs wives and children have, and all the more in our relentlessly distracting age, is dad’s attentiveness.” How Counseling Helps Churches Embrace a Missional Mindset - As much as I personally dislike
- [Equipping You in Grace Podcast](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/11/05/equipping-you-in-grace-podcast/) - Recently, I had the joy and privilege to talk with Dave Jenkins of Servants of Grace. We talked about anxiety and how the promises of God work in our hearts and minds to bring us peace. Listen here.
- [What Is Conversion?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/05/15/what-is-conversion/) - Authentic biblical discipleship stands in awe of the power of God’s gospel to convert thoroughly sinful men and women from thoroughly sinful thoughts, actions, motives, emotions, and desires to Spirit-generated new creations that reflect the beautiful love and holiness of Jesus Christ—the Lord we are now called to follow. God’s vision of discipleship, therefore, requires
- [4 Ways to Return to the Word](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/11/12/4-ways-to-return-to-the-word/) - In Nehemiah 8, we see the beginnings of spiritual revival, which comes as the people return to the Word of God. At this point, the Jewish people have been in exile for many years, but they have begun to return to Jerusalem. This return did not come all at once, but in two waves, separated
- [RERUN - How to Write a Good Sympathy Card](https://counselingoneanother.com/2012/11/06/rerun-how-to-write-a-good-sympathy-card/) - Since my mother’s death, two years ago this past Saturday, I have radically altered the way I write in sympathy cards. I now know more fully the pain that death brings into our lives and, having received so many impacting words of comfort from others, am convinced I will never write in a card the
- [How to Write a Good Sympathy Card](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/12/12/how-to-write-a-good-sympathy-card/) - Since my mother’s death, two years ago this past Saturday, I have radically altered the way I write in sympathy cards. I now know more fully the pain that death brings into our lives and, having received so many impacting words of comfort from others, am convinced I will never write in a card the
- [He Is Able](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/15/he-is-able/) - Innumerable voices in the media relentlessly tell us, “You can do it!” But if we are honest with ourselves, we know deep down that we can’t. We fail often. We are not invincible. Life’s challenges reveal to us that we are not as strong as we thought we were. But there is good news! When
- [Parenting Seminar in Wisconsin Rapids, Nov. 2nd](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/16/parenting-seminar-in-wisconsin-rapids-nov-2nd/) - Biblical Counseling Ministries (BCM) is a ministry of Calvary Baptist Church in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. The focus of BCM is to equip Christians to give sound biblical advice to others. With that purpose in mind, BCM offers a fall seminar each year. Next month, I have the privilege to teach at this annual event. The
- [How to Walk into Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/19/how-to-walk-into-church/) - “I suppose it must have happened upwards of 2000 times by now. I exit the car, usually with a wife and various kids in tow, and amble in the front door, tossing off a quick greeting to whomever is handing out the folded sheets of paper that in church-speak are called ‘bulletins.’ After a quick
- [Four Marks of a Biblical Friend](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/10/01/four-marks-of-a-biblical-friend/) - In yesterday’s post, I began a 3-part summary of the teaching the men of our church received at our annual retreat this past weekend with Jonathan Holmes. Part one in this blog series introduced the topic of biblical friendship by pointing out the human need for friendship. In today’s post, we take a look at
- [Nuggets](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/16/nuggets-78/) - For the Baby I Didn't Get to Hold - This choked me up. Even if you have not experienced miscarriage or stillbirth, you need to read this so that you learn to be compassionate, to weep with those who weep. Manipulation: The Subtle and Enslaving Sin - "A manipulator will at first appear to tolerate
- [10 Ways to Hate People - Expanded](https://counselingoneanother.com/2015/03/30/10-ways-to-hate-people-expanded/) - Earlier this month, David Murray posted a list entitled 10 Ways to Hate People. The list struck me, especially since these sins are all too common among those who profess to know Jesus Christ. The list has come back to my mind a number of times. Therefore, I decided to expand on David’s list simply
- [The Root of Idolatry](https://counselingoneanother.com/2017/08/23/the-root-of-idolatry/) - In Romans 1:21-23, the apostle Paul demonstrates the fundamental guilt of all mankind because of the failure to glorify God. Regarding these verses, R.C. Sproul writes: [It] is important to note that Paul does not bring a universal indictment against humanity for the failure to know God. That is not our problem. It is not
- [How Does a Biblical Understanding of “the Heart” Help Our Relationships?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/05/08/how-does-a-biblical-understanding-of-the-heart-help-our-relationships/) - In the Bible, the “heart” means your inner immaterial person that is made up of your thought life, your emotions, and your will. This means that your thought life reveals your heart. Your decisions (your will) reveal your heart. And your emotions tell you about your heart. This becomes even more important if we take
- [NUGGETS](https://counselingoneanother.com/2013/08/09/nuggets-8913/) - 5 Ways to Minister to Someone with Dementia - "Since graduating seminary in May 2012 with my MDiv, a lot has happened in my life. At the top of that list is the return of my father into my life after a long absence." Counseling Unbelievers - "Consider it a divine appointment when unbelievers arrive
- [How Long Does Grieving Take?](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/03/13/how-long-does-grieving-take/) - How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? (Ps. 13:1-2) Loss is not always sudden, like it was for Job (Job 1:13-19). Sometimes it’s gradual. Sometimes it
- [How I Got Saved - The Human View](https://counselingoneanother.com/2011/12/21/how-i-got-saved-the-human-view/) - In yesterday’s post, I emphasized the divine perspective of my salvation, i.e. that I am a child of God by His sovereign choice in Christ. It was His plan, His initiative, long before my will ever got involved. Today, I explain the instrumentation God employed in early 1984 to free me from the spiritual darkness
- [3 Suggested Uses for My Depression Interview](https://counselingoneanother.com/2014/04/03/3-suggested-uses-for-my-depression-interview/) - A year-and-a-half ago, David Murray and his film-making team drove from Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan to our home in Plymouth, Wisconsin. The purpose of their trip was to spend two days with my family and me, and interview me on the subject of depression, specifically how a pastor and biblical counselor
- [Anxiety Distracts Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/08/22/anxiety-distracts-us/) - Anxiety is so much a part of our lives that it’s natural for us to frequently talk about it. However, defining it can be another story. Defining anxiety, and understanding how it works, sometimes seems like trying to nail Jell-O to the wall. Our definition doesn’t quite hold. Anxiety is an emotion. We know this,
- [A Gatekeeper for Your Anxious Heart](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/10/22/a-gatekeeper-for-your-anxious-heart/) - And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:7) God wants us to bring everything to Him in prayer because we need the humility and dependence that prayer effects in us. As a result of prayer, the peace of God protects our hearts
- [How Anxiety Can Feed Anger, Irritability, and Frustration](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/01/17/how-anxiety-can-feed-anger-irritability-and-frustration/) - But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “You are worried and upset about many things…” - (Luke
- [Worry May Indicate You Need to Reassess Your Values](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/04/worry-may-indicate-you-need-to-reassess-your-values/) - In Jesus’ teaching on worry, Philip De Courcy writes, “Jesus prescribes a reassessment. He asks, ‘Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?’ (Matthew 6:25). And then he directs them to “Look at the birds of the air.” Why? He explains, “Your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more
- [When God's Provision Seems Impossible](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/02/08/when-gods-provision-seems-impossible/) - When anxiety overtakes us, we become bound up in the small stuff of life, the passing, transitory things, when we should be focused on the eternal. [In Matthew 6] Jesus is saying, “Look, God has taken care of the birds and the lilies. He has taken care of the tiny transitory parts of creation. But
- [Keep Yourself in God’s Love](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/28/keep-yourself-in-gods-love/) - But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. (Jude 20–21) Meditating on the love of our triune God is a remedy for anxiety. We rest
- [Thanks for Your Prayers for My Writing Ministry](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/03/thanks-for-your-prayers-for-my-writing-ministry/) - IT'S ALMOST HERE! One of the writing projects that you've been praying about is currently at the printer, and I'm super excited about it. ANXIETY: Knowing God’s Peace (31-Day Devotional) is a 31-day devotional from P&R Publishing. I wrote this book to encourage all of us to think more deeply about what is going on
- [Choose to Rejoice](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/17/choose-to-rejoice/) - “I want happiness,” a friend told me. He’s one of many people I know who want to be happy and yet often look for happi­ness in the wrong places. As I write this chapter, Amazon’s search engine produces over fifty thousand results for books about hap­piness. Yet even with all this self-help available, people are
- [Talk Back To Your Anxiety](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/11/talk-back-to-your-anxiety/) - Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:3-4 Emotions can go wrong in times of grief. This is the case with anger, but it’s often the case with anxiety, too. With loss
- [There's a Little Guy Somewhere](https://counselingoneanother.com/2016/01/17/theres-a-little-guy-somewhere/) - There's a little guy somewhere waiting to appear curled up inside his mother's protective atmosphere. He's the one they didn't plan on. He's an extra mouth to feed, a little inconvenience neither of them need. He's doctor bills and formula. He's sleepless nights and stress. He's wet and dirty diapers and a house that is
- [Redefining Addiction to Pornography](https://counselingoneanother.com/2018/08/09/redefining-addiction-to-pornography/) - Christians are in a dangerous predicament today: we do not know where to look in God’s word for the solutions to our problems. So writes, Rachel Coyle in HELP! She’s Struggling with Pornography. She continues, “this is often because we use non-biblical words to describe problems and struggles. It is not wrong or sinful to
- [3 New LifeLine Mini-Books - Panic Attacks, Suicide, Bullying](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/27/3-new-lifeline-mini-books-panic-attacks-suicide-bullying/) - I'm thrilled to introduce you to the three newest members of the LifeLine mini-book family. I'm certain you will want to get a handful of each title for your personal one-another ministry, as well as your church or counseling resource center (pre-publication orders ship mid-September). HELP! I Get Panic Attacks - Panic attacks are terrifying,
- [Walk in the Way of the Word](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/02/walk-in-the-way-of-the-word/) - If you’ve ever driven on the turnpike across Pennsylvania then you have driven through the Allegheny Mountains. You’ve admired their constant beauty, no matter the time of day. Whether the morning fog is lifting, the sun is shining, or dark clouds are rolling, the mountains are a wonder to behold. Psalm 119 is like that.
- [NUGGETS - Self-Forgiveness](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/08/30/nuggets-self-forgiveness/) - "I can accept God's forgiveness, but I just can't forgive myself." How often do we hear this in today's world? Yet, is this a biblically correct way to think about forgiveness? This week, I helped a counselor-in-training think through this issue. Here are the articles that I asked him to read, as well as a
- [NUGGETS: Suicide](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/14/nuggets-suicide/) - What Pastors and Congregations Need to Know About Suicide - "Pastors and congregants must both work together against this tide as this story becomes more and more common." Is Suicide a Brain Issue or a Heart Issue? - "In the Bible and Jesus’ teachings, we see that the thoughts we think, the actions we take,
- [Nuggets](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/24/nuggets-75/) - Beware of Taking Your Sorrows to Alcohol Before God - "Using alcohol intoxication as a coping mechanism for melancholia can quickly become a matter of life and death." The Last Battle: The Final Words of David Powlison's Final Book - "Since the first day the Lord invaded my heart with his mercy and grace, I
- [Nuggets](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/10/05/nuggets-77/) - Here's a handful of articles that I encourage you to check out this weekend. 5 Marks of a Pharisee - "More than good deeds and longer quiet times, God desires a broken and humble heart. He asks us to repent of our attempts to be righteous without Him and to acknowledge that Christ alone is
- [60 Ways the Inerrant Word Blesses Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/2019/09/07/60-ways-the-inerrant-word-blesses-us/) - Psalm 119 has been a personal favorite of mine since the early days of my Christian life, studying it was instrumental to my growth. Then, while helping to plant a church in Kansas in the late 1980’s, the Psalm became my choice for the first adult Sunday School class we offered. Working through the Psalm

## Pages

- [Speaking Itinerary](https://counselingoneanother.com/connect/speaking-schedule/) - My primary commitment is to Cornerstone Community Church. However, my elders have given me freedom to accept outside speaking engagements. If you want me to teach at your event, contact me at: ptautges@cornerstonemayfield.org. Current sermons are uploaded here. Past radio programs can be found on the Delight in the Word website. 2025 March 21-22, 2025
- [About the Author](https://counselingoneanother.com/about/bio-of-paul-tautges/) - Paul Tautges serves as one of the pastors of Cornerstone Community Church in Mayfield Heights, Ohio (east of Cleveland). Prior to accepting the Lord's call to Cornerstone, he pastored in Wisconsin for 22 years. Paul has been married to Karen since 1986. Together they enjoy their ten children and their spouses, and their growing tribe
- [LifeLine mini-books](https://counselingoneanother.com/books/booklets/) - LifeLine mini-books are designed for personal growth, small groups, and one-to-one ministry.
- [Contact Paul](https://counselingoneanother.com/connect/contact-me/) - You may contact Paul at: Paul Tautges Cornerstone Community Church 1400 Lander Rd. Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 pktautges@gmail.com *NOTE: We are no longer accepting unsolicited material for this blog site.
- [RESOURCES: Counseling Theology & Methodology](https://counselingoneanother.com/resources-counseling-theology-methodology/) - Here’s another recommended Resource List as you minister grace and truth. There are many more list links in the right-hand margin of this homepage. THEOLOGY OF COUNSELING A Theology of Biblical Counseling (Heath Lambert)Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave (Ed Welch)Counseling One Another: A Theology of Interpersonal Discipleship (Paul Tautges)How People Change (Paul Tripp and
- [Sermon Podcast](https://counselingoneanother.com/sermons/) - Believing that “faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the Word of Christ” (Rom. 10:17), we are glad to direct you to free audio resources available for your personal growth in the Lord as well as your ministry to one another. Delight in the Word radio program on Moody Radio Cleveland.Over 500 sermons may be
- [Books](https://counselingoneanother.com/books/books/)
- [About the Blog](https://counselingoneanother.com/about/purpose/) - The purpose of Counseling One Another is to stimulate and nurture healthy, Word-driven growth among believers in Christ. By coming alongside to encourage your spiritual growth in the Lord, and pointing you toward Christ-centered resources to strengthen your personal ministry, we hope to assist you in making obedient disciples of Jesus Christ. Counseling one another is
- [Books & Mini-Books](https://counselingoneanother.com/books/) - To make it easier for you to browse through our discipleship counseling resources, this section is divided into three parts: Books, Mini-Books, and Audio Resources. You may use the drop down menu or click on links below. --- Books --- Mini-books (great for personal growth, counseling, & your small group ministry) --- Audio Resources
- [Connect](https://counselingoneanother.com/connect/) - If you wish to invite me to speak at your upcoming event, or submit a question regarding the Christian life, feel free to send me an email. Dr. Paul Tautges Cornerstone Community Church 1400 Lander Rd. Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 paul@counselingoneanother.com
- [About](https://counselingoneanother.com/about/) - -- About this blog -- Bio of Paul Tautges

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [Abuse](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/abuse/)
- [Addictions](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/addictions/)
- [Alcohol](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/alcohol/)
- [Anger](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/anger/)
- [Anxiety/Panic/Fear](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/anxietyworrypanic/)
- [Attributes of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/attributes-of-god/)
- [Biblical Counseling Defined](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/biblical-counseling/)
- [Brain Disorders](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/brain-disorders/)
- [Chemical Imbalance](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/chemical-imbalance/)
- [Christian Liberty](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/christian-liberty/)
- [Conflict](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/conflict/)
- [Contentment](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/contentment/)
- [Resources](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/resource-recommendation/)
- [Cross](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/cross/)
- [Cutting/Self-Harm](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/self-harm/)
- [Dads Are Disciplers](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/dads-are-disciplers-dads/)
- [Dating/Courtship](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/datingcourtship/)
- [Decisions](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/decisions/)
- [Depression](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/discouragementdepression/)
- [Disability/Special Needs](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/disability/)
- [Disappointment](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/disappointmentdiscouragement/)
- [Emotions](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/emotions/)
- [Encouragement](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/encouragement/)
- [Evangelism & Missions](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/evangelism/)
- [Faith](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/faith/)
- [Finances/Giving/Debt](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/financial-counsel/)
- [Food Issues](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/food-issues/)
- [Forgiveness/Bitterness](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/forgiveness/)
- [Freedom in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/freedom-in-christ/)
- [Friendship](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/friendship/)
- [Gambling](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/gambling/)
- [God's Will](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/gods-will/)
- [Gospel](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/gospel/)
- [Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/grace/)
- [Grief/Loss/Loneliness](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/grief-care/)
- [Guilt/Shame](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/guiltshame/)
- [Holiness](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/holiness/)
- [Holy Spirit](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/holy-spirit/)
- [Same-Sex Attraction/Homosexuality](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/homosexuality/)
- [Hospitality](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/hospitality/)
- [Husbands](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/husbands/)
- [Identity in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/identity-in-christ/)
- [Journey to Biblical Counseling](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/journey-to-bc/)
- [Joy](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/joy/)
- [Leadership/Shepherding](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/leadership/)
- [Legal Issues](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/legal-issues/)
- [Listening](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/listening-2/)
- [Local Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/local-church/)
- [Love & Relationships](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/love/)
- [Porn/Lust/Masturbation](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/lust/)
- [Marriage](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/marriage/)
- [Medical/Physical](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/medication/)
- [Men's Issues](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/mens-ministry/)
- [Motherhood](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/motherhood/)
- [Musical Counsel](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/musical-counsel/)
- [Nuggets of Wisdom](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/nuggets/)
- [Parenting](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/parenting/)
- [Perfectionism](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/perfectionism/)
- [Prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/prayer/)
- [Pride/Humility](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/pride/)
- [Psychology/Psychiatric Labels](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/psychiatric-labels/)
- [Puritans](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/puritans/)
- [Q&A](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/qa/)
- [Recommended Reading](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/book-recommendation/)
- [Renewing the Mind](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/renewing-the-mind/)
- [Repentance & Confession](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/repentance/)
- [RESOURCE LISTS](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/resource-lists/)
- [Sanctification](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/spiritual-growth/)
- [Sanctity of Human Life](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/sanctity-of-human-life/)
- [Sexuality/Gender](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/sexuality/)
- [Sin/Temptation](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/sin/)
- [Small Group Toolbox](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/small-group-discussion/)
- [Sovereignty of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/sovereignty-of-god/)
- [Speech/gossip/lying](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/speechcommunication/)
- [Spiritual Discipline](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/spiritual-discipline/)
- [Spiritual Warfare](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/spiritual-warfare/)
- [Suffering](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/suffering/)
- [Sufficiency of Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/sufficiency-of-christ/)
- [Sufficiency of Scripture](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/sufficiency-of-scripture/)
- [Testimonies](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/testimonies/)
- [Thankfulness](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/thankfulness/)
- [Theology/Doctrine](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/theologydoctrine/)
- [Thought Life](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/thought-life/)
- [Training Programs](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/training-programs/)
- [Trusting God](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/trusting-god/)
- [Wives](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/wives/)
- [Women's Issues](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/womens-needs/)
- [Work Ethic](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/work/)
- [Worship](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/worship/)
- [Adultery](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/marriage/adultery/)
- [Singleness](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/singleness/)
- [Suicide](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/suicide/)
- [Mental Illness](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/mental-illness/)
- [Pastoral Ministry/Shepherding](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/pastoral-ministry/)
- [Burnout](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/burnout/)
- [Bible Study](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/bible-study/)
- [Regeneration/New Birth](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/regenerationnew-birth/)
- [Adoption](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/adoption/)
- [Revival](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/revival/)
- [Heaven/Hell](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/hell/)
- [Devotion to Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/devotion-to-christ/)
- [Abortion](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/abortion/)
- [Faithfulness](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/faithfulness/)
- [Lordship of Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/lordship-of-christ/)
- [Creation](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/creation/)
- [Book Review](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/book-reviews/)
- [Advent/Christmas](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/adventchristmas/)
- [Family Devotions/Worship](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/family-devotionsworship/)
- [Conversion](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/conversion/)
- [Flashback Friday](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/flashback-friday/)
- [Infertility](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/infertility/)
- [Shame](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/shame/)
- [Dementia](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/dementia/)
- [Alzheimer's](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/alzheimers/)
- [Premarital Counsel](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/marriage/premarital/)
- [Internet/Digital Issues](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/internet-digital-issues/)
- [Bullying](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/bullying/)
- [Miscarriage/Stillbirth](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/miscarriage/)
- [Post Traumatic Stress](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/ptsd/)
- [Hope](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/hope/)
- [Antinomianism](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/antinomianism/)
- [Legalism](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/legalism/)
- [Guest Post](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/guest-post/)
- [Fruit of the Spirit](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/fruit-of-the-spirit/)
- [Personal Growth Assignments (homework)](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/homework/)
- [Prodigal Children](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/parenting/prodigal-children/)
- [Sexual Assault](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/sexual-assault/)
- [Personal](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/personal/)
- [Ethnicities](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/ethnicities/)
- [Counseling Children & Youth](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/counseling-children/)
- [Children's Books](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/parenting/childrens-books/)
- [Counselor Training & Personal Growth](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/counselor-training/)
- [Communication](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/communication/)
- [Patience](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/patience/)
- [Spanish Resources](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/spanish/)
- [Hoarding](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/hoarding/)
- [Stewardship of Life](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/stewardship-of-life/)
- [Image of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/image-of-god/)
- [Assurance of Salvation](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/assurance-of-salvation/)
- [Fear of Man/Pleasing People](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/fear-of-man-pleasing-people/)
- [Trauma](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/trauma/)
- [Grandparenting](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/grandparenting-2/)
- [Salvation/Security](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/salvation-security/)
- [Doctrine](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/doctrine/)
- [Children's Resources](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/childrens-resources/)
- [Homework Philosophy](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/homework-philosophy/)
- [Rejection](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/rejection/)
- [Psalm 23](https://counselingoneanother.com/category/psalm-23/)

## Tags

- [9Marks](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/9marks/)
- [A Puritan Theology](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/a-puritan-theology/)
- [Aaron Armstrong](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/aaron-armstrong/)
- [Abortion](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/abortion/)
- [Albert Martin](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/albert-martin/)
- [Alexander Strauch](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/alexander-strauch/)
- [Alzheimer's](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/alzheimers/)
- [Ben Marshall](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ben-marshall/)
- [Biblical Counseling Coalition](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/biblical-counseling-coalition/)
- [Bitterness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bitterness/)
- [Bob Kellemen](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bob-kellemen/)
- [Brad Hambrick](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/brad-hambrick/)
- [Brass Heavens](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/brass-heavens/)
- [Brian Croft](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/brian-croft/)
- [Brian Hedges](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/brian-hedges/)
- [Capital Hills Baptist Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/capital-hills-baptist-church/)
- [Carl Jung](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/carl-jung/)
- [CCEF](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ccef/)
- [Contentment](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/contentment-2/)
- [Conversion](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/conversion/)
- [Cruciform Press](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/cruciform-press/)
- [D.A. Carson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/d-a-carson/)
- [Daniel Darling](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/daniel-darling/)
- [Dave Coats](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dave-coats/)
- [David Murray](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/david-murray/)
- [David Powlison](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/david-powlison/)
- [Deborah Howard](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/deborah-howard/)
- [Deepak Reju](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/deepak-reju/)
- [Depression](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/depression/)
- [Desiring God](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/desiring-god/)
- [Desiring God Disability Conference](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/desiring-god-disability-conference/)
- [Dietrich Bonhoeffer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dietrich-bonhoeffer/)
- [Don Carson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/don-carson/)
- [Douglas Wilson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/douglas-wilson/)
- [Ed Welch](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ed-welch/)
- [eHarmony](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/eharmony/)
- [Elyse Fitzpatrick](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/elyse-fitzpatrick/)
- [Ernie Baker](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ernie-baker/)
- [Extreme Righteousness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/extreme-righteousness/)
- [Faith Biblical Counseling Ministries](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/faith-biblical-counseling-ministries/)
- [Fanny Crosby](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/fanny-crosby/)
- [Foolishness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/foolishness/)
- [Forgiveness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/forgiveness-2/)
- [Francis Ridley Havergal](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/francis-ridley-havergal/)
- [Gary Gilley](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/gary-gilley/)
- [Glenda Hotton](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/glenda-hotton/)
- [Howard Eyrich](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/howard-eyrich/)
- [Howard Hendricks](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/howard-hendricks/)
- [James Montgomery Boice](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/james-montgomery-boice/)
- [Jay Adams](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jay-adams/)
- [Jerry Bridges](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jerry-bridges/)
- [Jim Newcomer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jim-newcomer/)
- [Jim Newheiser](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jim-newheiser/)
- [Joel Beeke](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joel-beeke/)
- [Joel James](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joel-james/)
- [John Knight](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-knight/)
- [John Owen](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-owen/)
- [John Street](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-street/)
- [John Temple](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-temple/)
- [Joni Eareckson Tada](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joni-eareckson-tada/)
- [Justin Taylor](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/justin-taylor/)
- [Laura Hendrickson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/laura-hendrickson/)
- [Laura Story](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/laura-story/)
- [Laziness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/laziness/)
- [Ligon Duncan](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ligon-duncan/)
- [Listening](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/listening/)
- [Lit!](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/lit/)
- [Lou Priolo](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/lou-priolo/)
- [Mark Dever](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/mark-dever/)
- [Mark Jones](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/mark-jones/)
- [Mark Shaw](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/mark-shaw/)
- [Mark Talbot](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/mark-talbot/)
- [Martyn Lloyd-Jones](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/martyn-lloyd-jones/)
- [Matthew Henry](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/matthew-henry/)
- [Matthias Media](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/matthias-media/)
- [Miscarriage](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/miscarriage/)
- [Motivation](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/motivation/)
- [NANC](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/nanc/)
- [Oswald Sanders](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/oswald-sanders/)
- [Paul David Tripp](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/paul-david-tripp/)
- [Paul Miller](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/paul-miller/)
- [Paul Tripp](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/paul-tripp/)
- [Persecution](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/persecution/)
- [Rachel Coyle](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/rachel-coyle/)
- [RC Sproul](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/rc-sproul/)
- [Rebellion](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/teenage-rebellion/)
- [Reformation Heritage Press](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/reformation-heritage-press/)
- [Reggie Weems](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/reggie-weems/)
- [Rick Thomas](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/rick-thomas/)
- [Robert Jones](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/robert-jones/)
- [Ron Allchin](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ron-allchin/)
- [Sam Crabtree](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/sam-crabtree/)
- [Samuel Miller](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/samuel-miller/)
- [Self-esteem](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/self-esteem/)
- [Self-love](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/self-love/)
- [Self-pity](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/self-pity/)
- [Shame](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/shame/)
- [Shannon McCoy](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/shannon-mccoy/)
- [Shepherding](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/shepherding/)
- [Sherwin Nuland](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/sherwin-nuland/)
- [Spanking](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/spanking/)
- [Stand-up desk](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/stand-up-desk/)
- [Stephen Charnock](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/stephen-charnock/)
- [Steve Estes](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/steve-estes/)
- [Stuart Scott](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/stuart-scott/)
- [Sue Nicewander](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/sue-nicewander/)
- [The Master's College](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-masters-college/)
- [The Next Story](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-next-story/)
- [The Works of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-works-of-god/)
- [Thomas Watson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/thomas-watson/)
- [Tim Challies](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tim-challies/)
- [Tim Lane](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tim-lane/)
- [Timothy Lane](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/timothy-lane/)
- [Titanic](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/titanic/)
- [Tom Hovestol](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tom-hovestol/)
- [Tony Reinke](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tony-reinke/)
- [Tullian Tchividjian](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tullian-tchividjian/)
- [Uprooting Anger](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/uprooting-anger/)
- [Wayne Mack](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/wayne-mack/)
- [Westminster Theological Seminary](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/westminster-theological-seminary/)
- [Wilhelmus à Brakel](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/wilhelmus-a-brakel/)
- [William Ames](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/william-ames/)
- [David Wells](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/david-wells/)
- [Terry Slachter](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/terry-slachter/)
- [Winston Smith](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/winston-smith/)
- [Bruce Ray](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bruce-ray/)
- [Christ-Centered Biblical Counseling](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/christ-centered-biblical-counseling/)
- [Indelible Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/indelible-grace/)
- [DSM IV](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dsm-iv/)
- [DSM V](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dsm-v/)
- [Bipolar Disorder](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bipolar/)
- [Dissociative Identity Disorder](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dissociative-identity-disorder/)
- [Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/obsessive-compulsive-disorder/)
- [Encouragement for Today's Pastors](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/encouragement-for-todays-pastors/)
- [Bob Somerville](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bob-somerville/)
- [Dangerous Calling](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dangerous-calling/)
- [HELP! I'm a Slave to Food](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-im-a-slave-to-food/)
- [Jonathan Holmes](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jonathan-holmes/)
- [Thomas Brooks](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/thomas-brooks/)
- [Precious Remedies against Satan's Devices](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/precious-remedies-against-satans-devices/)
- [Krista Horning](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/krista-horning/)
- [Exodus International](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/exodus-international/)
- [Alan Chambers](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/alan-chambers/)
- [The Depression Epidemic](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-depression-epidemic/)
- [Valley of Vision](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/valley-of-vision/)
- [Thom Rainer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/thom-rainer/)
- [Nancy Leigh DeMoss](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/nancy-leigh-demoss/)
- [Tim Grissom](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tim-grissom/)
- [Seeking Him](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/seeking-him/)
- [Life Action Ministries](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/life-action-ministries/)
- [Grace Covenant Counseling Center](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/grace-covenant-counseling-center/)
- [Grace Covenant Church of Gilbert](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/grace-covenant-church-of-gilbert/)
- [Arizona](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/arizona/)
- [Mayo Clinic](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/mayo-clinic/)
- [Broken Heart Syndrome](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/broken-heart-syndrome/)
- [A Puritan Life](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/a-puritan-life/)
- [Tom Ascol](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tom-ascol/)
- [Joe Carter](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joe-carter/)
- [John Kitchen](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-kitchen/)
- [Proverbs](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/proverbs/)
- [Cumberland Valley Bible & Books](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/cumberland-valley-bible-books/)
- [Jeremiah Burroughs](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jeremiah-burroughs/)
- [Randy Patten](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/randy-patten/)
- [Heath Lambert](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/heath-lambert/)
- [Garrett Higbee](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/garrett-higbee/)
- [Paul Washer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/paul-washer/)
- [Joel Osteen](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joel-osteen/)
- [Joyce Meyer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joyce-meyer/)
- [The Conviction to Lead](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-conviction-to-lead/)
- [Albert Mohler](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/albert-mohler/)
- [Unanswered prayer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/unanswered-prayer/)
- [Ken Sande](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ken-sande/)
- [Justin Holcomb](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/justin-holcomb/)
- [John Piper](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-piper/)
- [Peacemaker Ministries](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/peacemaker-ministries/)
- [A Portrait of Paul](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/a-portrait-of-paul/)
- [Jeremy Walker](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jeremy-walker/)
- [Rob Ventura](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/rob-ventura/)
- [Reformation Heritage Books](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/reformation-heritage-books/)
- [You Never Stop Being a Parent](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/you-never-stop-being-a-parent/)
- [Twixters](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/twixters/)
- [Kippers](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/kippers/)
- [Boomerang Kids](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/boomerang-kids/)
- [Things that happen at salvation](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/things-that-happen-at-salvation/)
- [Sam Horn](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/sam-horn/)
- [Steve Viars](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/steve-viars/)
- [Bible Meditations](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bible-meditations/)
- [A Way to Pray](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/a-way-to-pray/)
- [Dan Dumas](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dan-dumas/)
- [Matthew Olson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/matthew-olson/)
- [John MacArthur](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-macarthur/)
- [J. Stephen Yuille](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/j-stephen-yuille/)
- [A Hope Deferred](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/a-hope-deferred/)
- [infertility](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/infertility/)
- [Adoption](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/adoption-2/)
- [Pastor's Wife](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/pastors-wife/)
- [John Knox](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-knox/)
- [Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/puritan-reformed-theological-seminary/)
- [Chris Anderson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/chris-anderson/)
- [Casting Crowns](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/casting-crowns/)
- [B.B. Warfield](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/b-b-warfield/)
- [CH Spurgeon](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ch-spurgeon/)
- [John Kohlenberger](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-kohlenberger/)
- [Cara Croft](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/cara-croft/)
- [The Pastor's Family](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-pastors-family/)
- [Psalms](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/psalms/)
- [The Most Encouraging Book on Hell Ever](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-most-encouraging-book-on-hell-ever/)
- [Thor Ramsey](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/thor-ramsey/)
- [William Varner](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/william-varner/)
- [Joshua Mack](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joshua-mack/)
- [Charles Spurgeon](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/charles-spurgeon/)
- [God's Solutions to Life's Problems](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/gods-solutions-to-lifes-problems/)
- [Psalm 46](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/psalm-46/)
- [Active Spirituality](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/active-spirituality/)
- [LifeLine mini-books](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/lifeline-mini-books/)
- [Tedd Tripp](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tedd-tripp/)
- [Shepherd Press](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/shepherd-press/)
- [HELP! Someone I Love has Cancer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-someone-i-love-has-cancer/)
- [HELP! I Want to Change](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-i-want-to-change/)
- [Dave Harvey](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dave-harvey/)
- [When Sinners](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/when-sinners/)
- [BCTC of AZ](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bctc-of-az/)
- [AABC](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/aabc/)
- [David Tyler](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/david-tyler/)
- [Mark Hager](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/mark-hager/)
- [James Clark](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/james-clark/)
- [Craig Rowe](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/craig-rowe/)
- [Calvary Theological Seminary](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/calvary-theological-seminary/)
- [Keith Miller](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/keith-miller/)
- [Patricia Miller](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/patricia-miller/)
- [John Kruis](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-kruis/)
- [Brenda Frields](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/brenda-frields/)
- [HELP! I Have Breast Cancer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-i-have-breast-cancer/)
- [Larry McCall](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/larry-mccall/)
- [HELP! My Friend Is Suicidal](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-my-friend-is-suicidal/)
- [God with Us](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/god-with-us/)
- [Sluggards](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/sluggards/)
- [Adam Embry](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/adam-embry/)
- [HELP! I Can't Get Motivated](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-i-cant-get-motivated/)
- [Hebrews 11](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/hebrews-11/)
- [R.C. Sproul](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/r-c-sproul/)
- [Zack Eswine](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/zack-eswine/)
- [Spurgeon's Sorrows](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/spurgeons-sorrows/)
- [1 John](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/1-john/)
- [Assurance of salvation](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/assurance-of-salvation/)
- [Comfort the Grieving](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/comfort-the-grieving/)
- [Practical Shepherding](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/practical-shepherding/)
- [One Cry](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/one-cry/)
- [Bill Elliff](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bill-elliff/)
- [A Shelter in the Time of Storm](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/a-shelter-in-the-time-of-storm/)
- [HELP! She's Struggling with Pornography](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-shes-struggling-with-pornography/)
- [Sinclair Ferguson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/sinclair-ferguson/)
- [ACBC](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/acbc/)
- [Psalm 119](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/psalm-119/)
- [Someone I Love has Alzheimer's](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/someone-i-love-has-alzheimers/)
- [Judy Howe](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/judy-howe/)
- [Borderline Personality Disorder](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/borderline-personality-disorder/)
- [Deserted by God?](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/deserted-by-god/)
- [Cornerstone Community Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/cornerstone-community-church/)
- [Puritans](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/puritans/)
- [Trusting God](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/trusting-god/)
- [Jeff Newman](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jeff-newman/)
- [Pamela Russell](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/pamela-russell/)
- [Regular Baptist Press](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/regular-baptist-press/)
- [Alistair Begg](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/alistair-begg/)
- [One-Eighty Counseling & Education](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/one-eighty-counseling-education/)
- [Biblical Counseling and the Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/biblical-counseling-and-the-church/)
- [Who Am I?](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/who-am-i/)
- [Denny Burk](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/denny-burk/)
- [Randy Alcorn John Kohlenberger](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/randy-alcorn-john-kohlenberger/)
- [HELP! My Anger Is Out of Control](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-my-anger-is-out-of-control/)
- [J. I. Packer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/j-i-packer/)
- [Richard Sibbes](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/richard-sibbes/)
- [The Bruised Reed](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-bruised-reed/)
- [Prayer Prompter](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/prayer-prompter/)
- [Preparing for church](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/preparing-for-church/)
- [Taking communion](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/taking-communion/)
- [Hebrews 13:5; Armand Tiffe](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/hebrews-135-armand-tiffe/)
- [The Mortification of Sin](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-mortification-of-sin/)
- [James P. Boyce](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/james-p-boyce/)
- [Do More Better](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/do-more-better/)
- [Urban Legends of the New Testament](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/urban-legends-of-the-new-testament/)
- [Good News About Satan](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/good-news-about-satan/)
- [Bob Bevington](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bob-bevington/)
- [John Lehman](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-lehman/)
- [Fit for the Master](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/fit-for-the-master/)
- [Bob Kauflin](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bob-kauflin/)
- [Stephen Altrogge](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/stephen-altrogge/)
- [Lemuel Haynes](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/lemuel-haynes/)
- [Practicing Affirmation](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/practicing-affirmation/)
- [Why Easter?](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/why-easter/)
- [10 of Those](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/10-of-those/)
- [BCI Ohio](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bci-ohio/)
- [Phil Johnson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/phil-johnson/)
- [Soul Purity](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/soul-purity/)
- [John Newton](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-newton/)
- [Hymns of Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/hymns-of-grace/)
- [I Asked the Lord that I Might Grow](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/i-asked-the-lord-that-i-might-grow/)
- [The Pursuit of Holiness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-pursuit-of-holiness/)
- [Transforming Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/transforming-grace/)
- [The Practice of Godliness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-practice-of-godliness/)
- [John Younts](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-younts/)
- [Everyday Talk](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/everyday-talk/)
- [John Frame](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-frame/)
- [Thomas Zempel](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/thomas-zempel/)
- [Shepherds Seminary](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/shepherds-seminary/)
- [There Is a Fountain](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/there-is-a-fountain/)
- [William Cowper](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/william-cowper/)
- [The Whole Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-whole-christ/)
- [John Hindley](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-hindley/)
- [Alec Motyer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/alec-motyer/)
- [Help! I Need a Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-i-need-a-church/)
- [Alex Motyer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/alex-motyer/)
- [Isaiah By the Day](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/isaiah-by-the-day/)
- [Titus 3:10](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/titus-310/)
- [Wolves in sheep's clothing](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/wolves-in-sheeps-clothing/)
- [Decrees of God](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/decrees-of-god/)
- [Kevin DeYoung](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/kevin-deyoung/)
- [Conscience](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/conscience/)
- [Transformed Into His Likeness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/transformed-into-his-likeness/)
- [Armand Tiffe](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/armand-tiffe/)
- [Tattoos](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tattoos/)
- [HELP! I Can't Forgive](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-i-cant-forgive/)
- [Delight in the Word](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/delight-in-the-word/)
- [Martha Peace](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/marrha-peace/)
- [Sleep](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/sleep/)
- [Breast cancer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/breast-cancer/)
- [Tim Keller](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tim-keller/)
- [Gospel and marriage](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/gospel-and-marriage/)
- [Jay Younts](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jay-younts/)
- [Geoff Robson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/geoff-robson/)
- [Jehovah's Witnesses](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jehovahs-witnesses/)
- [Thomas Goodwin](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/thomas-goodwin/)
- [HELP! I'm So Lonely](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-im-so-lonely/)
- [Gossip](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/gossip/)
- [Matt Mitchell](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/matt-mitchell/)
- [Resisting Gossip](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/resisting-gossip/)
- [Matthew Smith](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/matthew-smith/)
- [Pray About Everything](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/pray-about-everything/)
- [Psalms By the Day](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/psalms-by-the-day/)
- [A. W. Tozer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/a-w-tozer/)
- [Marry Wisely Marry Well](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/marry-wisely-marry-well/)
- [WORLD Magazine](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/world-magazine/)
- [Martin Luther](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/martin-luther/)
- [Cancer](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/cancer/)
- [Terminal illness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/terminal-illness/)
- [Cremation](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/cremation/)
- [HELP! I Can't Handle All These Trials](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-i-cant-handle-all-these-trials/)
- [Tony Payne](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tony-payne/)
- [Idolatry](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/idolatry/)
- [Andy Johnson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/andy-johnson/)
- [Jon Nielson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jon-nielson/)
- [Bible Reading with Your Kids](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bible-reading-with-your-kids/)
- [Loneliness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/loneliness/)
- [Mike Emlet](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/mike-emlet/)
- [Ligonier Ministries](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ligonier-ministries/)
- [The Valley of Vision](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-valley-of-vision/)
- [Addictions Victorious](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/addictions-victorious/)
- [The Discipline of Mercy](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-discipline-of-mercy/)
- [Jim Berg](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jim-berg/)
- [Freedom That Lasts](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/freedom-that-lasts/)
- [The Vine Project](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-vine-project/)
- [Colin Marshall](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/colin-marshall/)
- [Eliza Huie](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/eliza-huie/)
- [Teen sexuality](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/teen-sexuality/)
- [HELP! I'm Confused about Dating](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/help-im-confused-about-dating/)
- [Desiring God Conference for Pastors](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/desiring-god-conference-for-pastors/)
- [The Biblical Counseling Center](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-biblical-counseling-center/)
- [Tim Allchin](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tim-allchin/)
- [Nathan Millican](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/nathan-millican/)
- [Kent Hughes](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/kent-hughes/)
- [Christopher Ash](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/christopher-ash/)
- [Peter Masters](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/peter-masters/)
- [Ten Commandments](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ten-commandments/)
- [Jon Bloom](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jon-bloom/)
- [For the Church](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/for-the-church/)
- [Rescuing Ambition](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/rescuing-ambition/)
- [John Calvin](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-calvin/)
- [A Little Book on the Christian Life](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/a-little-book-on-the-christian-life/)
- [Sexual abuse](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/sexual-abuse/)
- [Maria Brookins](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/maria-brookins/)
- [Rob Green](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/rob-green/)
- [John Crotts](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-crotts/)
- [Raising Kids series](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/raising-kids-series/)
- [John Kwasny](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/john-kwasny/)
- [Philip De Courcy](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/philip-de-courcy/)
- [Joshua Zeichik](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joshua-zeichik/)
- [Matt Perman](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/matt-perman/)
- [Muslim evangelism](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/muslim-evangelism/)
- [Personality traits](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/personality-traits/)
- [Joni & Friends](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joni-friends/)
- [P&R Publishing](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/pr-publishing/)
- [Lucy Ann Moll](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/lucy-ann-moll/)
- [Christine Chappell](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/christine-chappell/)
- [Servants of Grace](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/servants-of-grace/)
- [Dave Jenkins](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dave-jenkins/)
- [Jon MacDonald](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jon-macdonald/)
- [Ed Fedor](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ed-fedor/)
- [Bobette Hatteberg](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bobette-hatteberg/)
- [Andreas Kostenberger](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/andreas-kostenberger/)
- [Margaret Kostenberger](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/margaret-kostenberger/)
- [Books at a Glance](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/books-at-a-glance/)
- [George Scipione](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/george-scipione/)
- [Hope + Help Podcast](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/hope-help-podcast/)
- [Tim Keeter](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/tim-keeter/)
- [Nancy Guthrie](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/nancy-guthrie/)
- [Truth in Love Podcast](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/truth-in-love-podcast/)
- [Dave Deuel](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dave-deuel/)
- [Scott Mehl](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/scott-mehl/)
- [IBCD](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/ibcd/)
- [Walter Kaiser](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/walter-kaiser/)
- [BC Alliance](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bc-alliance/)
- [Drew Hunter](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/drew-hunter/)
- [Karen McMahon](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/karen-mcmahon/)
- [Amy Baker](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/amy-baker/)
- [Carol Trahan](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/carol-trahan/)
- [Keith and Kristyn Getty](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/keith-and-kristyn-getty/)
- [Biblical Counseling Alliance](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/biblical-counseling-alliance/)
- [Charles Hodges](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/charles-hodges/)
- [New Growth Press](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/new-growth-press/)
- [Jonathan Edwards](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jonathan-edwards/)
- [Andrew Murray](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/andrew-murray/)
- [Sue Nicewander Delaney](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/sue-nicewander-delaney/)
- [Nick Thompson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/nick-thompson/)
- [Panic attacks](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/panic-attacks/)
- [Navigators](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/navigators/)
- [Revive Our Hearts](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/revive-our-hearts/)
- [IABC](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/iabc/)
- [Philippians](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/philippians/)
- [Moody Radio Cleveland](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/moody-radio-cleveland/)
- [Dave & Judi Coats](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dave-judi-coats/)
- [Brian S. Borgman](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/brian-s-borgman/)
- [Free Grace Press](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/free-grace-press/)
- [Os Guinness](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/os-guinness/)
- [Gary Miller](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/gary-miller/)
- [Phil Campbell](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/phil-campbell/)
- [Kevin Carson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/kevin-carson/)
- [Lauren Whitman](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/lauren-whitman/)
- [gaslighting](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/gaslighting/)
- [Delight in the Word Radio](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/delight-in-the-word-radio/)
- [Jenn Chen](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jenn-chen/)
- [Margy Tripp](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/margy-tripp/)
- [A. Craig Troxel](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/a-craig-troxel/)
- [When Disability Hits Home](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/when-disability-hits-home/)
- [Janet Mefferd](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/janet-mefferd/)
- [Daniel Stegeman](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/daniel-stegeman/)
- [Joni and Friends](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/joni-and-friends/)
- [Matt Mumma](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/matt-mumma/)
- [Brian Sayers](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/brian-sayers/)
- [Donald Whitney](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/donald-whitney/)
- [Parkinson's Disease](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/parkinsons-disease/)
- [manipulation](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/manipulation/)
- [Stephanie O. Hubach](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/stephanie-o-hubach/)
- [George Swinnock](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/george-swinnock/)
- [Alasdair Groves](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/alasdair-groves/)
- [Dale Johnson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/dale-johnson/)
- [Bill Gothard](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bill-gothard/)
- [Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/instruments-in-the-redeemers-hands/)
- [Healing Hearts Ministries](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/healing-hearts-ministries/)
- [Megan Hill](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/megan-hill/)
- [Jenilyn Swet](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jenilyn-swet/)
- [D. A. Carson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/d-a-carson-2/)
- [T. Dale Johnson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/t-dale-johnson/)
- [Maturing Life in Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/maturing-life-in-christ/)
- [Nick Batzig](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/nick-batzig/)
- [Autism](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/autism/)
- [David Doran](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/david-doran/)
- [ABC](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/abc/)
- [Galatians](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/galatians/)
- [Redeeming Productivity](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/redeeming-productivity/)
- [Lamentations](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/lamentations/)
- [God's Mercy in Our Suffering](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/gods-mercy-in-our-suffering/)
- [Marty Machowski](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/marty-machowski/)
- [Good Friday](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/good-friday/)
- [Return of Christ](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/return-of-christ/)
- [Obedience](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/obedience/)
- [Esther Smith](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/esther-smith/)
- [Jim Elliff](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jim-elliff/)
- [ChristianAudio](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/christianaudio/)
- [Journal of Biblical Counseling](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/journal-of-biblical-counseling/)
- [Esther Liu](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/esther-liu/)
- [The Focused Pastor](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/the-focused-pastor/)
- [Bob Lepine](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/bob-lepine/)
- [Jeremy Pray](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jeremy-pray/)
- [Todd Sorrell](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/todd-sorrell/)
- [Reagan Rose](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/reagan-rose/)
- [Kathleen Nielson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/kathleen-nielson/)
- [Timothy Keller](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/timothy-keller/)
- [Horatius Bonar](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/horatius-bonar/)
- [Anchored Hope Podcast](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/anchored-hope-podcast/)
- [Owen Strachan](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/owen-strachan/)
- [Jack Miller](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/jack-miller/)
- [Curtis Solomon](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/curtis-solomon/)
- [Darby Strickland](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/darby-strickland/)
- [Haven Today](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/haven-today/)
- [Barbara Juliani](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/barbara-juliani/)
- [Lifeline Mini-Books for Teens](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/lifeline-mini-books-for-teens/)
- [Kelly Collier](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/kelly-collier/)
- [Heather Nelson](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/heather-nelson/)
- [Randy Alcorn](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/randy-alcorn/)
- [Timothy St. John](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/timothy-st-john/)
- [Roman Catholicism](https://counselingoneanother.com/tag/roman-catholicism/)