Imagine a mechanic attempting to fix a car without the proper tools. Frustration would
be inevitable, and the job might never get done. The same is true in biblical counseling,
without the right tools, counselors cannot effectively minister to the brokenhearted. The
biblical counselor needs his tools to be adequate, and the primary tool is the Word of
God, and it provides a vast array of tools at the biblical counselor’s disposal. The Word
of God is the foundation upon which biblical counseling stands. Without it, counselors
lack the authority and resources necessary to bring about true healing and
transformation.

The world is saturated with knowledge, psychology, and science, yet many who seek
secular counseling remain with unresolved issues. Why? Because secular methods
often lack true authority and there is power in God’s Word. It was by His Word that the
world took form, and the Bible is not just another book; it is unique because it is God’s
Word. This divine authority gives biblical counselors the confidence to reject secular
psychological models that merely suppress symptoms rather than address the root of
human struggles is sin and the heart’s condition.

Psychology, in its modern form, often operates from a humanistic framework, assuming
that man is essentially good and that his problems stem from external circumstances.
However, Scripture paints a different picture. Romans 3:10 reminds us, “There is none
righteous, no, not one.” Because human nature is inherently sinful, secular solutions
that neglect the heart will ultimately fall short.

Biblical counseling is not merely about applying principles; it is a spiritual work that
depends entirely on the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5 reminds us: “He saved us through the
washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” Effective counseling cannot be done
apart from the Holy Spirit. While secular counseling offers coping mechanisms, only the
Holy Spirit can bring about true heart transformation exchanging bitterness for love,
depression for joy, and anger for peace. The biblical counselor understands that real
change is supernatural and must yield to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as our ultimate Counselor in John 14:26: “But the Helper,
the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and
bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” This divine Helper enables
biblical counselors to minister beyond human wisdom, relying on God’s power to bring
about lasting change.

One of the most debated topics in counseling today is the use of medication. Many
Christians struggle with whether taking psychiatric medication is compatible with biblical
counseling. The key question is: does medication treat the root cause, or does it simply
mask the symptoms? Some cases may require medication to stabilize individuals so
they can engage in biblical counseling. However, it is crucial to recognize that

medication does not address spiritual issues. It can dull anxiety or stabilize mood
swings, but it does not deal with the heart’s condition before God.

Drugs do not and cannot change the heart, they may quiet symptoms, but they do not
cure the disease of sin. This does not mean that medication is never appropriate. There
are cases of physical illness, such as schizophrenia or neurological disorders, where
medication may be necessary. However, for issues such as anxiety, depression, or
anger where the heart issues are, medication should not replace biblical counseling.

In today’s society, medication is often the first solution prescribed for emotional distress.
This approach can be problematic for several reasons:

1. It shifts trust away from God – Relying solely on medication can prevent
   individuals from seeking God for healing and transformation.
2. It can numb spiritual conviction – If anxiety or guilt is the result of unrepented sin,
   medication may mask the discomfort without leading to real change.
3. It may not be necessary – Many cases of depression and anxiety can be
   resolved through biblical truth, repentance, and renewing the mind (Romans
   12:2).
   
   

That said, biblical counselors should exercise wisdom. While we should not dismiss
medication outright, we must ensure that our counselees understand that ultimate
healing comes through Christ, not a pill. Ultimately what we must understand, biblical
counselor’s counselees are being discipled. Secular counseling often lacks a
discipleship process. Patients are diagnosed, given medication, a variety therapeutic
exercises and sometimes left without real resolution. In contrast, biblical counseling
aligns with Jesus’ command to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19).

God’s vision of discipleship requires a theological understanding of sin and grace not
merely to reform sinners, but to regenerate, redeem, and reclaim them for His own
possession. Biblical counseling does more than provide relief it leads to redemption. It
does not merely manage emotions but transforms lives by bringing people to Christ.

True biblical counseling involves relationship, love, and care something often is absent
in secular therapy. Empathy plays a critical role in discipleship. The Greek words used
in Scripture reveal the depth of biblical empathy:

• Parakaleo – To come alongside and comfort (encouraging counselees to
  overcome sin).
• Protrepo – To urge forward (motivating counselees to pursue spiritual growth).
• Noutheteo – To admonish or correct (loving confrontation for spiritual change).
• Paraineo – To exhort and advise (offering biblical wisdom for life’s challenges).
  
  

These elements make biblical counseling unique counselors invest in their counselees
as disciples, walking with them toward spiritual maturity. Biblical counselors must

recognize that the greatest obstacle to change is man’s sinful nature. Paul Tautges
identifies four characteristics of sin that counselors must address:

1. Willful Independence – Man’s natural tendency is to reject God’s authority.
2. Selfish Cruelty – Sin leads people to prioritize self over relationships.
3. Total Depravity – Every part of man is tainted by sin.
4. Spiritual Unresponsiveness – True heart change requires the work of the Holy
   Spirit.
   
   

Despite these challenges, biblical counselors are equipped with the truth of Scripture
and the power of the Holy Spirit. By trusting in God’s Word, they can guide counselees
from darkness into light, transforming enemies of God into disciples of Christ.

Conclusion: Pastor Sean’s Call to Biblical Counseling

Secular counseling offers temporary relief, but biblical counseling offers lasting
transformation. With Scripture as their foundation, biblical counselors can boldly
minister with confidence, knowing that true healing comes from God alone. If you are
called to biblical counseling, immerse yourself in the Word, depend on the Holy Spirit,
and embrace the high calling of discipleship. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us: “All
Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect,
thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”

True healing is found not in psychology or medication, but in the life-changing power of
God’s Word.