As counselors, the words we speak are of utmost importance. They have the power to build up or tear down. Of equal importance are the words that our counselees speak about themselves, others, and their circumstances. In each case, we are called to speak words of life and help others do the same. Continue Reading →
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Bitterness is something each of us has tasted and likely been unwilling to talk about. It is pervasive and painful, yet often hidden in the heart beneath the veneer of a contented appearance. If unattended, bitterness will only grow and, as author Stephen Viars succinctly puts it, will eventually destroy us. Bitterness is no small thing with no small consequences. To effectively handle bitterness, guidance is needed, and Viars’ book Overcoming Bitterness is a welcome light for traversing its shadowed paths. Continue Reading →
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When you counsel others, what Bible verse or story do you most often use? I’ve noticed my answer to this question can change throughout the year for a number of reasons. However, one verse seems to stay near the top of my rotation consistently: “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin” (Heb. 4:15). Volumes could be written (and have been) on the incredible contents of this singular verse. However, one part particularly produces deep joy in my heart: Jesus is our sympathetic high priest. Continue Reading →
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As a counselor, I am sometimes treated like I’m a superhero. My ability to leap over emotional crises in a single bound and see through brick walls of communication dysfunction can leave my counselees feeling like I’m something special. Their humble and adoring responses like “Man, I would’ve never understood that without you” and “Andrew, you saved my marriage” are a boost to my ego and a danger to my soul. Like a glowing green lump of kryptonite, these words are beautiful in appearance but if held too close, will drain the life out of me. Continue Reading →
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Suffering. We all seek to avoid it, yet invariably we all must deal with it in some form or fashion. For some, suffering ebbs and flows through the various chapters of life, coloring discreet aspects of their experience. For others, suffering is a constant, an inescapable thread running through the entire fabric of their life. In both cases, help is needed to navigate the suffering that adorns life this side of heaven. John Kwasny’s book, Suffering in 3-D, offers such help. Continue Reading →
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