Daily Counselling
Inside the church, there are many people who need inner healing. A counsellor once said that about two-thirds of all church members likely come from broken homes. Observing pastors and believers around me, it's evident that many grew up with a parent passing away early, experiencing parental divorce, or under constant strife at home, or were raised by grandparents or relatives.
In regular churches, experiencing healing can be challenging. Seminars on inner healing or counselling topics are sometimes offered, but complete healing often doesn't occur. True healing requires external life changes corresponding to internal restoration, which are often impossible in regular church life. However, healing happens in house churches. This is because they meet when needed, listen sincerely, pray earnestly, and assess life regularly during weekly gatherings, facilitating comprehensive inner healing through transformative external changes.
In "Daily Counselling" by Karen Akerman-Stolzke, it's noted that in early churches, counselling naturally occurred among members. The essence of counselling, according to the author, is simply "being there" for others. It involves supporting individuals amidst crises, conflicts, illnesses, sadness, doubts, and uncertainties. The most important quality for a daily counsellor isn't professional knowledge but a deep relationship with God.
The book suggests several pieces of wisdom applicable in house church settings:
Firstly, when meeting someone in distress, it's crucial to move beyond providing answers and instead earnestly listen to their thoughts and emotions. In house churches, listening attentively when pain or sorrow is shared is vital; simply responding and crying together can initiate healing.
Secondly, people in major crises often lack the strength to make sound decisions. Rather than merely advising prayer, it's essential to pray together. Even if there are doubts about God's presence, love, or abilities; guiding them towards God through prayer together is more effective than instructing.
Thirdly, daily counsellors must recognise their limitations. They should strive to do their best in counselling but avoid taking on responsibilities beyond their capabilities. Individuals suffering from panic disorders, depression, compulsions, trauma, or severe spiritual or mental wounds should be referred to professional therapists. It's crucial to remember that one is an assistant in counselling, not the problem solver. Always keep in mind that there is only one Savior, God, and avoid trying to take on God's role.
#This text has been referenced and edited based on Pastor Young Gi Choi's column "Daily Counselling."
Word of the week
Church members belong to a house church and have responsibilities in church ministry. This is also a privilege of being a church member. When introducing yourself, please say, "I belong to [Name of the house church], and I serve in [Name of the ministry] at the church."
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이동주 2024.06.22 22:44
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Inside the church, there are many people who need inner healing. A counsellor once said that about two-thirds of all church members likely come from broken homes. Observing pastors and believers around me, it's evident that many grew up with a parent passing away early, experiencing parental divorce, or under constant strife at home, or were raised by grandparents or relatives.
In regular churches, experiencing healing can be challenging. Seminars on inner healing or counselling topics are sometimes offered, but complete healing often doesn't occur. True healing requires external life changes corresponding to internal restoration, which are often impossible in regular church life. However, healing happens in house churches. This is because they meet when needed, listen sincerely, pray earnestly, and assess life regularly during weekly gatherings, facilitating comprehensive inner healing through transformative external changes.
In "Daily Counselling" by Karen Akerman-Stolzke, it's noted that in early churches, counselling naturally occurred among members. The essence of counselling, according to the author, is simply "being there" for others. It involves supporting individuals amidst crises, conflicts, illnesses, sadness, doubts, and uncertainties. The most important quality for a daily counsellor isn't professional knowledge but a deep relationship with God.
The book suggests several pieces of wisdom applicable in house church settings:
Firstly, when meeting someone in distress, it's crucial to move beyond providing answers and instead earnestly listen to their thoughts and emotions. In house churches, listening attentively when pain or sorrow is shared is vital; simply responding and crying together can initiate healing.
Secondly, people in major crises often lack the strength to make sound decisions. Rather than merely advising prayer, it's essential to pray together. Even if there are doubts about God's presence, love, or abilities; guiding them towards God through prayer together is more effective than instructing.
Thirdly, daily counsellors must recognise their limitations. They should strive to do their best in counselling but avoid taking on responsibilities beyond their capabilities. Individuals suffering from panic disorders, depression, compulsions, trauma, or severe spiritual or mental wounds should be referred to professional therapists. It's crucial to remember that one is an assistant in counselling, not the problem solver. Always keep in mind that there is only one Savior, God, and avoid trying to take on God's role.
#This text has been referenced and edited based on Pastor Young Gi Choi's column "Daily Counselling."
Word of the week
Church members belong to a house church and have responsibilities in church ministry. This is also a privilege of being a church member. When introducing yourself, please say, "I belong to [Name of the house church], and I serve in [Name of the ministry] at the church."