Counseling
In this module, we’ll focus on the concept of spiritual counsel—both as an activity and as a role we embody when we come alongside someone in need of care.
Significant spiritual counsel is not limited to those with professional training or titles; it’s part of the shared calling of believers to offer wisdom, comfort, and guidance rooted in Scripture and the Holy Spirit. These resources will help us explore models of spiritual counsel distinct from clinical counseling, and how to walk with others faithfully and discerningly as instruments of God’s care.
Resources
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Christian Counseling: A Comprehensive Guide by Gary R. Collins
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The Core of Counseling: Collins, G. R. (2007). Christian Counseling: A Comprehensive Guide, p. 38-62. Thomas Nelson.
Four Models of Counseling in Pastoral Ministry: Redeemer City to City. (n.d.). Four Models of Counseling in Pastoral Ministry. redeemercitytocity.org. Retrieved 2022, from redeemercitytocity.org
How to be a Good Listener: HOW TO BE A GOOD LISTENER. (n.d.). Labor Notes |. Retrieved 2023, from https://www.labornotes.org/sites/default/files/21HowToBeAGoodListener_0.pdf
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Exodus 18:13-27
Proverbs 15:22, 20:5
John 14:15-21
1 Thessalonians 5:14-24
1 John 4:1-6
Bottom Line
Clinical counseling focuses on assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental illness through professional, evidence-based care. Spiritual counseling, however, centers on walking with others toward wholeness in Christ. It’s less about giving answers and more about being present—listening deeply, reflecting truth, and helping others seek who God is, who they are in Him, and what He’s calling them to do. Through this ministry of presence, we participate in God’s healing work, helping others find joy and meaning even in suffering.
One Step Deeper
Reflect on your assumptions
Note the first response / reaction that comes to mind without rationalizing it. That’s how we nail down our automatic assumptions! There is no judgment here — we are seeking humility, honesty, integrity within belonging.
What do you think of when you think of “counseling”?
What does “counseling” feel like to you (either counseling others or being counseled? Why do you think it feels that way?
If you were to define counseling, how would you define it?
Integration questions
How do your own assumptions and understanding before this module interact with the Scriptures and the gospel?
How do the resources provided in this section interact with the Scriptures and the gospel?
Briefly, try to name one thing you would receive, one thing you’d reject, and one thing you’d redeem about the concept of counseling.
Module Reflection Form
Please complete the module reflection form after you have completed the assigned readings for this module. A copy of your responses will be emailed to you.