--- Biblical Psychology ---
Christ Centered Counseling
For the Pastor and Christian Counselor
By Rev. Johnny Lee Shepherd
"For the Lamb Who is in the midst of the throne will be their Shepherd, and He will guide them to the springs of the waters of Life; and God will wipe every tear away from their eyes."
Revelation 7:17 Zondervan Amplified Bible
Christ Centered Counseling for the Pastor and Christian Counselor
Rev. Johnny Lee Shepherd
Dedication This book is dedicated first to God, my source, provider and saviour. Secondly to my Professor, Lawrence E. Nielsen
"According to His divine power has given
us all things that pertain to life and
godliness, through the knowledge of Him."
Preface
My purpose for writing this book is for the support of Biblical Psychology and for encouraging an awareness within Christian counselors, and pastoral leaders in any capacity, that without the anointing of God as quoted in 1 John 2:27: hardly any thing of positive importance or therapeutic permanence can be accomplished in the psychodynamic process, or within the context of the counseling environment.
1 John 2:27 Zondervan Amplified New Testament
Secular Psychotherapists would question this statement based upon the great works of understanding about the human emotion and mind that have already been accomplished within the field of secular psychology. My response to this reasoning is found in Ecclesiastes. . . "To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven". When it is God's intention to heal a situation within a person's life, God's truth can come out of the mouth of babes. There is also the promise that "God bestows His blessings on both the just and unjust alike." Many times secular psychologist do experience God's anointing in operation during a counseling session, even though they might not recognize it as such and simply label it technically as transference. Surely the, "Things of God to the Godless are as foolishness." and are not recognized as the investment of God in the counseling setting. This is not an attack upon secular counselors, for as Christians we are to be at peace. This statement is just a personal observation as a Pastor and Christian Counselor,
The central thesis of this book is that neither the gifts of God, nor the fruit of the Spirit are significantly activated in the counselor's experience unless the anointing in their life is first properly allowed to accomplish it's task. This anointing's task that I make reference to is the task of giving internal revelation to external circumstances and to the wishes and wisdom of God Himself. When this occurs then the anointing, the gifts of the Spirit and the fruits of the Spirit co-mingle to form a package that is mighty to the pulling down of strongholds! As a Minister and a Christian counselor, my experience has been that the counseling process and counseling environment which is solely motivated by psychological principles are powerless, flat, and often a destructive instrument that leads to greater confusion in the counselee's situation, and often will propel the individual to even greater self-condemnation.
In Chapter One I will consider several keys which will lead the reader down a pristine path of understanding and these keys will assist the reader to discover the deeper truth about God's operation of the anointing in the counselor's life. I will discuss topics such as:
1.) The anointing brings power
2.) The anointing always abides within
3.) Clarifying the three stages of the anointing
4.) How to receive the anointing
5.) Hindrances to the anointing's flow
6.) Co-mingling gifts, fruits and the anointing of God
A major focus in this chapter is to assist the reader in learning that God's anointing is the authoritative key to success in the counseling setting, Christian or non-Christian. The problem with secular psychology, and some Christian counseling settings, is that they fall quite short of effective counseling and problem resolution because of insufficient anointing. This book will explore why this condition exists and to offer a link (The gifts, fruit and anointing of the Holy Spirit) which will always bring appropriate psychological and emotional resolution for individuals or families seeking help from the Christian counselor.
In some circles of psychology the theories of this book will not be easily accepted because it's theoretical implication is that man's ability is not of his own fabrication (humanism) but rather of God's creation (the anointing and God's presence in all that we do, or otherwise defined as Biblical Psychology). It is my hope that those who offer resistance will maintain an open mind and see that there "IS" another approach to healing man's body, soul and spirit.
In the pages that follow, the anointing is discussed in depth. It is not my purpose to exult the anointing above any of the other great gifts of God. I am simply singling out this topic as a point of focus for the purpose of study on how God equips His people to accomplish the tasks that are set before us. To the question, "What is the anointing?" This in-depth study should clearly answer that question. However, I believe that the anointing, as a starting point for the reader, could be defined as the good seal of approval from God, as the interaction of the Holy Spirit with man's soul and spirit to display to us the greater purposes of God. Finally, it is the creative finger of God working within the counselor to purge, cleanse, sanctify and keep us on track. One might say that the anointing serves as our lighthouse in rough storms. It's what keeps the Christian counselor off the rocks and on the right navigational path of holiness. It is our beacon in the times when we are blinded by circumstances, or lost in our own imaginations and reasoning. Simply put, the anointing is the dividing asunder of the soul and spirit of man so that God may work freely to redeem His people.
In Chapter Two I explore Therapeutic Treatment Skills for the Pastor and Christian Counselor. Only after the operation of the anointing is fully understood, can the Gifts of God, tools of the bible, and the skills we aquire be fully utilized through the anointing.
This book was borne out of three personal experiences. First, as a pastor and by my personal study of the scriptures - which have caused me to participate in many hundreds of hours of word studies and comparisons between various translations of the bible.
Secondly, by establishing practical proof first hand through years of counseling with individuals in need of the redemptive offerings of God. Through-out this process each principle in this book has been proven and re-proven as to it's truth and actual existence.
Thirdly, by teaching principles which pass the acid test (the acid test is the word of God) to other students in Ministerial and Christian Counseling Schools. Through these students, and their clients, individuals over the span of years have communicated to me verification of these principles by their own experiences in the counseling setting.
It is my hope that when men and women of God establish their counseling abilities and authority in Him we shall see greater manifestations of the anointing of God and this will bring greater resolution to the struggles in this world and broader recognition to Biblical Psychology as a valid discipline.
The answers to a better life in this world are not to be found in a healthy or perfect physical environment, or through environmentalist and activist healing the earth, or even through world peace, but rather the better life comes through the discovery of God's presence, through receiving God's great gifts that He gives freely to every human being if they'll only accept it, and through the absence of sin (sin in this book is defined as wrong attitudes, choices and directions in life).
In the book written by Doctor Lawrence E. Nielsen, too whom this work is dedicated, he makes the following statement. . .
"This book is written with the belief that Christian Psychology needs to be weaned away from humanistic thinking and secular controls, and be brought back under the authority and the direction of the scriptures and of the Holy Spirit. It is a well known fact that professional associations and accrediting agencies have shaped the preparation of psychologist and counselors. Christian institutions, eager to gain respectability and an image of competency in the eyes of the world have more and more accommodated themselves to the programs, the Literature, and the research procedures of secular institutions. This is understandable since most Christian Psychologist have been trained in secular institutions themselves. More and more Christian Psychologists, however, are becoming disillusioned with the state of affairs in secular psychology and counseling. The time is ripe to reconsider the efficacy of the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit in understanding human problems and their resolution. It is time to develop a truly Biblical Psychology within the framework of the church of Jesus Christ.
It is inconceivable that the God of all wisdom and knowledge cannot equip his people to minister to the psychological problems of a given generation. His special revelation has been given to man in the scriptures. He has sent the Holy Spirit to apply that revelation too every point of human need."
I fully subscribe to Dr. Nielsen's philosophy and you will see the same stance maintained through-out this book. I have been very careful to include both genders in my writing for in God's eyes there are neither male or female, but we are all one in Christ Jesus. I have quoted scripture from only the Zondervan Amplified Bible. Not because other translations are any less authoritative, but simply for the purpose of clarity and continuity.
There are some biblical terms - such as prophecy, gift of tongues and interpretations, etc. - that have many different meanings to the Christian, and are emotionally laden with division amongst believers, depending upon the denomination or church that you may be a member. One of my goals in writing this book is to bring unity and it is my hope that the reader, as a Christian counselor or pastor, would see the spirit with which this book was written and not get caught up in the divisions that exist today in the body of Christ. Please take the scriptures I have quoted at their original intent, nothing else is inferred
Should you have any comments, or would like more copies of this publication, please feel free to contact me by mail or phone.
Please be sure to look for the symbol * as a way to identify each of the six keys and their sub-topics.
Rev. Johnny Lee Shepherd M.S., M.A.
Chapter One
Six Biblical Keys to Creating a
Successful Counseling Environment
There are six major biblical keys which when in operation create a successful counseling environment. However, not a single key can be fully comprehended unless the Christian counselor is able to conceptualize the anointing as the primary element of power in all counseling situations and this power as the anointing of God in one's life. This power and anointing cannot, or should not, be separated. With this foundational discrimination Christian counselors can find God's fullness in the counseling session with the following six keys:
Key Number One
*The Anointing Brings Power
The word "power" means a given capacity for being acted upon, or undergoing an effect. This experience of power is not about wielding control over someone else, or even having personal control over our own abilities as counselor. It is God who "Gives" us this power as Christian counselors and it is our responsibility to act in humility on what He has given us at the time of empowerment. When we "act" or respond, the anointing will accomplish what God has intended - to set the captives free - within the counseling session. With this definition, one can see that power is not about control but instead about surrender. Surrender to God's wisdom and purpose in the counselor's and counselee's life. If and when we can surrender to God then the power of the anointing will manifest in four possible ways:
1. The anointing power "breaks" the yoke and lifts burdens.
"For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good) - not harsh, hard, sharp or pressing, but comfortable, gracious and pleasant; and My burden is light and easy to be born."
Matthew 11:30 Zondervan Amplified Bible
Matthew 11:30 suggests that when a counselor attempts anything based upon his own ability, separate from God, that ultimately the end product will be a yoke (counsel) that is harsh, hard, sharp and often presses very uncomfortably on man's spirit. However, with the anointing in operation the same yoke (counsel) becomes comfortable, gracious and pleasant. This principle is seen with our burdens of life when in our own attempts to lighten the load we often shift the weight (burden) to someone else's blame instead of bearing the blame ourselves.
When we attempt to shift the blame, the burden only becomes heavier because of it's imbalance of being in someone else's arena of responsibility. But with the anointing of God activated and in control the same burden becomes light and easy to be born and easy to bear in our own arena of responsibility.
2. The anointing does good and cures oppression.
"How God anointed and consecrated Jesus of Nazareth with the (holy) Spirit and with the strength and ability and power; how He went about doing good and in particular curing all that were harassed and oppressed by (the power of) the devil, for God was with Him."
Acts 10:38 Zondervan Amplified Bible
Acts 10:38 reminds the Christian counselor that the anointing helped the Son of God to go about doing good and healing ALL who were afflicted. It was the anointing which brought Jesus first miracle at the age of thirty. The bonding between God's Spirit and Jesus was the anointing. The Christian counselor can only assist (facilitate) and create a therapeutic bond with others if the anointing is "allowed" to flow according to God's purpose and in God's time frame.
3. The anointing helped Christ to "take my place".
It was the anointing which allowed Christ to have accurate empathy towards those in need, as well as the ability to be touched with the feelings of their infirmities. A quality that few secular counselors exhibit and one that all Christian counselors must have active in their ministry towards others. The anointing can activate in the Christian counselor not only accurate empathy but also all of the other attending skills (fruits of the Spirit) available to the Christian practitioner through the prompting of the Holy Spirit. God takes it even one step further, Christian counselors can have these skills available to their sharpest cutting edge with the most gentle of application.
4. The anointing "Delivers" individuals from sin."
"And the Lord said, I have pardoned according to your words."
Numbers 14:20 Zondervan Amplified Bible
"Because if you acknowledge and confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and in your heart believe (adhere to, trust in and rely on the truth) that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses - declares openly and speaks out freely his faith - and confirms (his) salvation."
Roman 10:9,10 Zondervan Amplified Bible
By these scriptures it is seen that man is pardoned according to his words. This is not to say that salvation is within man alone, it is not, but confession and the anointing will always keep the Christian counselor headed up the path of righteousness and in righteousness stands Christ which is our salvation. In other words, the anointing activated within the counselor's life will keep his/her thoughts and words pure internally and externally. Thus the Christian counselor's counsel is one of greater integrity, truth, insight and honesty, coupled with deep compassion and understanding. The only possible outcome of this type of counseling can be deliverance from sin (sin in this book is defined as wrong attitudes, choices and directions in life).
Key Number Two
*The anointing abides within us.
"But as for you, (the sacred appointment, the unction) the anointing which you received from Him, abides (permanently) in you; (so) then you have no need that any should instruct you. But just as His anointing teaches you concerning everything, and is true, and is no falsehood, so you must abide - live, never to depart (rooted in Him, knit to Him) just as (His anointing) has taught you (to do)".
1 John 2:27 Zondervan Amplified New Testament
In John 2:27 we are instructed that the anointing comes from God and the anointing abides in us. The Christian counselor must constantly reflect internally to that place where the word of God divides asunder the soul and spirit. Here the anointing will be found as an active agent. This anointing will teach the Christian counselor all things. The anointing could be described as truth in operation and it is this truth which will assist the Christian counselor in maintaining the flow of the anointing as a constant source and strength. Since the anointing abides permanently with us, when truth is suppressed the anointing recedes to dormancy. Full operation and radiance of the anointing in the counselor and counselee's life is accomplish in seven ways:
1. The Christian Counselor's body becomes the temple of the Holy Spirit
Jesus spent a limited amount of physical time in the presence of Peter and John during His early ministry, thus the Apostles only could experience partial revelation, illumination and inspiration. But after the cross and according to John 14:17,23 the empowering discovery for the Christian is that He dwells with us permanently and as such constant revelation, illumination and inspiration belongs to the Christian Counselor.
"And the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive (welcome, take to its heart), because it does not see, nor know and recognize Him, for He lives with you (constantly) and will be in you..."
"Jesus answered, If a person (really) loves me, he will keep my word - Obey my teaching; and My Father will love him, and will come to him and make Our home (abode, special dwelling place) with him."
Matthew 14:17,23 Zondervan Amplified Bible
God's word is power unto salvation and it is the same anointing of God which is found in Hebrews 4:12 that powerfully divides asunder the soul and spirit, which is our very inner nature.
"For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power - making it active, operative, energizing and effective; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and (the immortal) spirit, and of joints and marrow (that is, of the deepest parts of our nature) exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12 Zondervan Amplified Bible
The counselor who is sensitive to God can with the assistance of the anointing bring correction in the malignment of the soul and spirit where much battle is experienced within the counselee's struggles. God's promise is that the Holy Spirit is poured upon all flesh, especially at the time of need and in the counseling setting. His work in us as counselors are mighty and our counseling labors will be successfully accomplished in every situation, regardless of the effort needed.
"For this I labor (unto weariness), striving with all the superhuman energy which He so mightily enkindles and works within me."
Colossians 1:29 Zondervan Amplified Bible
2. Virtue abides within the body of the Christian Counselor.
If by the Holy Spirit God abides in the body of the Christian counselor, then His nature and virtue also abide within the Christian counselor and he/she can be divine partakers (participators) of His nature and virtue if we so choose according to II Peter 1:3
"For His divine power has bestowed
upon us all things that (are requisite and suited)
to life and godliness, through the (full, personal)
knowledge of Him who called us by and to His own glory
and excellence (virtue)."
II Peter 1:3 Zondervan Amplified Bible
When counselee's are afflicted with conflict within the body, soul, or spirit the same virtue which ebbed from Jesus in Matthew chapter five to the woman with the issue of blood can also ebb from the Christian counselor because His virtue is in us. The virtue manifested in the anointed counselor is the same virtue found in Acts 19:11-12 when Paul prayed over the handkerchiefs for the sick and affected to be healed.
3. The Christian receives power in his/her body.
If the Spirit of God is sought to be present in every body of discontention, disharmony or disorganization then the anointing will correct and set straight that which does not align with God's purpose and both the Christian counselor and the counselee will experience power to overcome situational difficulties, peace will prevail and therapeutic resolution will occur.
4. Our body is a reservoir for the anointing.
"However, we possess this precious treasure
(the divine light of the Gospel) in (frail, human)
vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding
greatness of the power may be shown to be of God
and not for ourselves."
2 Corinthians 4:7 Zondervan Amplified Bible
Second Corinthians 4:7 instructs that God's children have "This treasure in earthen vessels. We are the earthen vessels and the treasure is God's anointing within us. The power of God is resident in our bodies through this anointing. This is why Solomon's and Mose's face shone. Today our whole body is full of God's light according to Matthew 6:22, and so our mortal bodies are quickened. This quickening is actually the action of God bringing the anointing from our reservoir as a Christian counselor, into our spirit.
5. The anointing brings Christ into our life more fully.
If as a counselor we do not believe that Christ can show us the way to resolve problems and conflicts, then our works become man's and not God's and we practice Humanistic Psychology. However, if we believe and trust in God, in spite of what the circumstances might appear to be, then the counselor can also experience miracles (and greater) of the type that Christ performed at God's divine finger of creation and we practice Biblical Psychology. In order for this to effectively happen our body as Christian counselors must be fully emerged (baptized) in the Holy Spirit.
"For no prophecy ever originated
because some man willed it (to do so) -
it never came from human impulse - but
as men spoke from God who were borne
along (moved and impelled) by the
Holy Spirit."
2 Peter 1:21 Zondervan Amplified Bible
Holy men (and women) were moved by the Holy Spirit and so we as Christian counselors must be emersed constantly in the counseling environment and with what God is doing in the counselee's heart, mind and life. Our attending skills must be in full operation. Generally speaking this is not the case. Most often counselors are caught up more in their own feelings (body) and agendas (mind) and not God's movement of divine creation for the moment (Spirit). However, the anointing, if allowed, will correct this error and bring Christ more fully into our life. This brings us to the next point. . .
6. The anointing transforms our body and mind.
Man forgets nine tenths of what he/she hears or learns through conversation or study, but according to John 14:26 the Christian counselor can and will bring back "all" things to remembrance with the assistance of the Holy Spirit.
"But the Comforter (counselor, helper, intercessor,
advocate, strengthener, standby), the Holy Spirit,
whom the Father will send in My name (in my place,
to represent Me and act upon My behalf), He will teach
you all things, and He will cause you to recall - will
remind you of, bring to your remembrance - everything
I have told you."
John 14:26 Zondervan Amplified Bible
There is by the virtue of the anointing a release for the Holy Spirit to transform and to activate the renewing of our minds in every situation, whether it be in counseling or in personal relationships. Because of this, it is my personal belief that every counselor, and every student counselor to be effective should have the experience of the Baptism (surrender to and Emersion in) of the Holy Spirit, and the anointing of God flowing in their lives. We all need this experience to "fully" and "accurately " function in our calling as Christian counselors.
7. The anointing is for everyone.
This very special gift from God is not limited by race, sex, color, denomination, financial status, tongue or state of personal freedom, but Acts 2:15-20 promises that God's Spirit and Anointing is poured out upon all flesh. If Romans 10:9-10 is fulfilled in the counselor and the counselee's life, then the anointing is for them also.
Key Number Three
*There are Three Stages of Anointing for Counselors.
Christ was anointed to be Prophet, Priest and King. Through Him the Christian counselor possesses these same three anointing's.
The prophetic anointing.
The Prophetic anointing includes the three spiritual gifts - " to speak..."
1 The gift of Prophecy,
2 The gift of Tongues,
3 The gift of Interpretations.
I would say that these gifts should be a very strong core of communication skills for the Christian counselor to possess!
"The Spirit of the Lord (is) upon Me, because He has
anointed Me (the anointed one, the Messiah) to preach
the good news (the Gospel) to the poor; He has sent
Me to announce release to the captives, and recovery
of sight to the blind; to send forth delivered those who
are oppressed - who are downtrodden, bruised,
crushed and broken down by calamity;"
Luke 4:18 Zondervan Amplified Bible
Jesus was anointed to preach the good news and preaching the good news is the same as speaking God's word to those you come in contact with. This can be accomplished in the pulpit, or like Jesus on a one to one, or group basis.
This sharing of the good news can also be accomplished in the counseling environment on a one to one basis. Good news is what every counselee is seeking. Revealing the Good News in every situation is the primary role of Biblical Psychology. It is also the primary role of the Christian counselor when dealing with those who are oppressed, downtrodden, bruised, crushed and broken down by calamity. With this biblical fact firmly established by the word of God, let us consider the Prophetic anointing further. . .
1. Prophecy is speaking God's word to the people.
A counselor who operates within the Prophetic anointing and ministry will have his client listening and hanging onto every word that he/she speaks. In Acts 3:22 we are instructed that a Prophetic anointing will cause the following set of circumstances to occur:
"...The Lord God will raise up for you a Prophet
from among your brethren as (He raised up) me;
Him you shall listen to and understand by hearing,
and heed in all things whatever He tells you."
Acts 3:22 Zondervan Amplified Bible
At certain times within the counseling setting the counselor will be raised up by God as prophet. This is not to say that the counselor operates full time in the office of the Prophet, rather the Christian counselor only operates temporally in the anointing of a Prophet. When moving in this office it's reassuring to know God is constant and there is a promise that prophecy will not fade until the great tribulation. (Revelation 11:6). If moved by and in God's Prophetic anointing the counselor's words, which are really God's words, can and will have ever lasting impact on the counselee.
2. We may all have prophecy in the church period.
An education in counseling is very important but it is not the primary requirement for the Christian counselor in order to be anointed. For the anointing to operate in the counselor's life education is not required. God can use a 7 year old child who has limited education to counsel a parent or adult. We find in the Old Testament that God can even use a donkey to give direction and counsel in ones life. When God's anointing rests upon an individual they will speak for God. A limited few, because of their own fear, will refuse to be vessels for God, in this case God will not violate our will, but generally, when God speaks, regardless of the vessel, people will respond in a positive fashion.
"Whoever speaks, (let him do it as
one who utters) oracles of God; whoever
renders service, (let him do it)
as with the strength which God furnishes
abundantly; so that in all things God may
be glorified through Christ Jesus. the Messiah,
to Him be the glory and dominion for ever and
ever - through endless ages. Amen - so be it."
I Peter 4:11 Zondervan Amplified Bible
This particular scripture sets the stage for the successful counseling situation. If any man or women speak or minister it should only be with God's ability which is through the anointing that flows in and through the Christian.
3. When Prophecy occurs we are one in God's sight.
Paul often proclaimed that being Baptized was to put on Christ. So it is that as the Christian counselor emerses his/her counsel in Christ, that the nature of the counsel is Christ, and therefore, counseling, through the anointing, is always moving in the perfection, both it it's timing and it's content. As the Christian counselor moves in the Prophetic anointing he/she will be one with God, and also one with the counselee.
4. Prophecy is for babes in Christ.
We are commanded to NOT despise prophecy, the Lord promises that even those who are babes in Christ can function in perfected praise (prophecy). In Matthew 21:15-16 even the children were prophesying that Christ was the Messiah. As a teacher and pastor I have witnessed the beginning student counselor who is sensitive to God function in the prophetic anointing and produce excellent counsel and outcomes. One might say that when the Christian gets saved they get ready to die (to self), but when they get the Holy Spirit and the anointing, they're ready to fly.
The Priestly Anointing
God moved upon a few in olden times to be a priest. Today, according to I Peter 2:5 we are all priests.
"(Come) and as living stones be yourselves built
(into) a spiritual house, for a holy (dedicated, consecrated)
priesthood, to offer up (those) spiritual sacrifices
(that are) acceptable and well pleasing to God through
Christ Jesus."
1 Peter 2:5 Zondervan Amplified Bible
In Luke 4:18 Jesus said that the priestly ministry was to heal the broken hearted and to set at liberty those who are bruised. This is a very clear picture of the role a Christian counselor (priest) assumes when he/she counsels. Because Jesus was made a priest "forever" we who are in Him must be Christian counselors who operate in the priestly anointing with authority. We cannot be wishy washy. We must know and understand the plans of God. We must be prepared to deal with sin as God would deal with sin. That is to say, we must be prepared to administer with authority the redemptive offers of God, to assure the counselee the forgiveness of God, to offer God's plan for change, and to offer priestly support and direction.
The priestly anointing in this age includes the three spiritual gifts - "to know..."
1 The word of wisdom
2 The word of knowledge
3 The discerning of spirits
Again, these are certainly gifts that are strongly needed as counseling skills within the counseling setting. In the priest/counselor role there are certain responsibilities that must be fulfilled. These responsibilities are. . .
1. A priest intercedes for the people.
"So Moses returned to the Lord,
and said, Oh, this people have sinned
a great sin, and have made them gods
of gold!
Yet now, if You will forgive their sin -
and if not, blot me, I pray You, out of
Your book which You have written!"
Exodus 32:31-32 Zondervan Amplified Bible
In Exodus 32:31-32 Moses went before God for the sins of the people. Christian counselors must do no less. We must encourage and assist our counselee to bring their sins to Christ for forgiveness. If we fail in this responsibility then we are not fulfilling the role that the priestly anointing requires of us as Christian counselors. Our call as priest/counselor is to take on the responsibility of priestly intercession and is the first step of success in therapeutic change for the counselee.
2. A priest stands in the gap.
If God's judgment is not held back, then God's destruction falls upon the unrighteous. God seeks those who will operate in the priestly anointing to lead others, by God's guidance, into righteousness. This is God's special call to Christian counselors so that He should not destroy those who stand in wrong doing.
""And I sought for a man among them
who should build up the wall, and stand
in the gap before Me for the land, that I
should not destroy it;. . ."
Ezekiel 22:30 Zondervan Amplified Bible
3. A priest binds up the bruised.
It is the counselor's role to apply a spiritual bandage to those who are wounded and bruised. This is done through the use of the Word of God, and through the words of encouragement that God puts into the counselor's heart and speaks through his/her mouth. Some Christian counselors fail to firmly operate with authority in the priestly role because they're fearful that they cannot, or will not, say the right things. However, Isaiah 50:4 promises a very special gift to the Christian counselor in the time of need. The very same promise that God gave Isaiah...
"(The servant of God says) The Lord God
has given me the tongue of disciples and
of those who are taught. that I should know
how to speak a word in season to him who
is weary; He wakens me morning by morning,
He wakens my ear to hear as disciples - as those
who are taught."
Isaiah 50:4 Zondervan Amplified Bible
As Christian counselors we can truly speak with wisdom and truth as we fulfill the responsibilities of priest/counselor. We never have to fear that we will say the wrong thing for it is God who will place the words in our mouth, and it is God who will place the wisdom within our heart as we deal with those who are wounded and bruised.
4. A priest sacrifices for the people.
To sacrifice for someone else is not an easy thing to do, but it is the call of a priest and it is the call of the Christian counselor. As a pastor/counselor I have often been required to give of my personal time and strength. Time and strength that I would have normally spent receiving of life's pleasures for myself (this receiving time is what I fondly call my "garden time") for someone who was bruised and struggling. In Joel 1:19 the Lord's ministers mourned for the people. As Christian counselors we can do no less. To spend the night in tears and prayer, and perhaps like Christ even to the point of shedding droplets of blood in the garden (that place in the garden that should have been a pleasure to be in was instead a place of sacrifice for the people) is our call and our responsibility as counselors. Like Christ, though not an easy task, we as Christian counselors must not be selfish or self centered so that others might experience a relationship with God. Can we as Christians and counselors do any less?
5. A priest watches for men's souls.
"Nor did we eat any one's bread without
paying for it, but with toil and struggle we
worked night and day, that we might not be
a burden or impose on any of you (for support)."
II Thessalonians 3:8 Zondervan Amplified Bible
Paul was extremely concerned about his brethren's soul. He said that he worked day and night so that another man's soul might not be stumbled. The counselor who is not residing within the framework of the anointing will often speak or infer things that will cause the counselee to judge himself with greater condemnation and confusion, thus stumbling and causing additional bruises. When in submission to the anointing the Christian counselor will always be moved with great concern about man's soul. He/she as counselor/priest will always be concerned as to how they approach the counselee in tender moments.
The Kingly anointing
A king is a sovern ruler, or one with "power" that can be compared with that of a ruler (Judges 8:18) This is descriptive of our Lord Jesus Christ who's kingly anointing was to bring deliverance to the captives and to bring recovery of sight. This same anointing appears in the successful Christian counselor where he/she brings new psychological and emotional sight ( in-sight and vision) to those held captive to sin. The kingly anointing includes three spiritual gifts - "To act..."
1 Gift of healing.
2 Working of miracles.
3 Gift of faith
These spiritual gifts are very accurate instruments (therapeutic skills) to possess in the framework of a counseling session. The kingly anointing is important to the counselor because. . .
1. The kingly anointing gives power.
"(After all,) the kingdom of God is not a matter
of (getting the) food and drink (one likes), but instead,
it is righteousness - that state which makes a person
acceptable to God - and heart peace and joy in the
Holy Spirit.
He who serves Christ in this way is acceptable and
pleasing to God and is approved by men."
Romans 14:17-18 Zondervan Amplified Bible
The Kingdom of God is not found in meat or drink, nor in the money we may earn from the counseling session. Although some counselors attempt to find power in these things (the more money we make, the more we believe we are blessed and approved of by God), these material manifestations are only symbols of false power! For the Christian counselor who fills the office of the kingly anointing the real power is found in the Kingdom of God and in His righteousness, peace of heart and joy in the Holy Spirit. Like a king, through this anointing, the Christian counselor will speak right answers, have peace in attitude and strength in what he/she counsels. As a model these attributes will transfer (rub off) onto the counselee until they too become kings.
2. The kingly anointing gives authority.
In Mark 1:27 Jesus commanded the unclean spirits with authority and they obeyed him. Even the Centurian, a man of right standing, recognized the authority of Jesus. When the counselor moves in this same kingly anointing then those who seek counsel will respond to the authority by which the Christian counselor counsels, and will respond to God's desires, purpose and plan for their life.
The word's of God were spoken to a rock and it brought forth water. His words were spoken to a fig tree and it withered and died. His words spoke man into existence. The words of God spoken to Lazarus caused him to live. Should it be any different in our counseling session as we move in his kingly anointing?
3. The kingly anointing gives us the faith of God.
In Mark 11:22 Jesus made a very simple, yet profound statement, "Have faith in God." Individuals often come for counsel because they have lost, or never possessed, faith in God. If we dwell in the purpose of God, and respond in the kingly anointing of God, then the oppression and confusion that the counselee experiences must respond, must change direction.
As Christian counselors we cannot get caught up in the power of our faith, or we put our faith into the wrong vessel and cause the kingly anointing to be non-operative. The Christian counselor's slogan should always be. "Rejoice not that demons are at our command, but rather that our names are written in heaven, and this is what gives me the power of faith and the ability to counsel."
4. The kingly anointing demands obedience.
After David was anointed to be king he possessed more power than as a shepherd boy. As king he could command armies to go forth and they would go as representation of him. All would know his power. As God's children, and as Christian counselors who are kings and priests, we have the same promise.
"But you shall receive power - ability,
efficiency and might -when the Holy Spirit
has come upon you; and you shall be My
witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judea and
Samaria and to the ends - the very bounds -
of the earth."
Acts 1:8 Zondervan Amplified Bible
As Christian counselors we must be a witness for that which is God's truth and express the immediate prompting of the Holy Spirit. If we are not obedient to this requirement then "power" will not adequately manifest and the counselee will leave the session with many of the same problems that they came in with. Kings always demand obedience. If the counselor is not obedient to the Lord's direction and wisdom the price to be paid is failure.
5. The kingly anointing gives dominion.
II Corinthians 4:11 proclaims that the life of Christ is made manifest in our mortal flesh. The way this is made possible is through the anointing that God bestows upon us. When the anointing is in operation in the counselor, and the counseling session, the works of the flesh - which are the emotional, spiritual and mental circumstances that most often cause oppression and bruising - seem to fall like flies at a raid party. Mental, physical and spiritual illness and mis-alignments at all levels resolve and desolve at the touch of God in our lives. The anointing takes dominion over those areas that are not pleasing in God's sight if we'll just humble ourselves as counselors to allow Him to do it.
Key Number Four
*How to receive the anointing.
Receiving the anointing of God is really so simple that many do not receive because they're looking for some complicated way to be worthy of God's gifts. Individuals constantly seek for the difficult ways to obtain God's gifts which are given freely to those who ask, least any man should boast. It should be obvious by now that this is how God works. Receiving the anointing of God is like the plan of salvation, it is so simple that all can ask and receive. However, there are some basic steps that the Christian counselor should take. . .
1. Be sure you have to Holy Spirit Baptism.
The counselor's life must be completely yielded to God, and this yielding must be seen in every thought, deed, and action - inside and outside of the counseling session. This can only be accomplished if one is baptized (emersed) in the Holy Spirit. After this point of yielding the question for the Christian counselor becomes, "not how much of the Holy Spirit do I have, but rather, how much of me does He Have?" Only then can the Christian counselor be fully yielded to what God has for the counselor and counselee. This is why in I Thessalonians 5:23 Paul's prayer was that our body be held blameless. Paul is basically reminding us that we must yield our bodies to God for this is the only way possible that our bodies can be preserved blameless.
2. Always be led by the Holy Spirit.
If the Counselor will allow himself or herself to be led, guided and motivated by the Holy Spirit in the little things, then he/she will always be led in the bigger things. God's plan is that if the counselor will be faithful in the little things first, he will makes us rulers over much. Peter and John waited until they were led by the Spirit to say, "Rise up and walk." They had passed by this gate many times before, but they waited for the Holy Spirit's timing for this man to be healed, a small but important consideration! When it was the timing of the Spirit the man who sat by the gate received God's perfect deliverance and walked. To be "IN" God is to be "LED" by God's Spirit
"For all who are led by the spirit
of God are the sons of God."
Romans 8:14 Zondervan Amplified Bible
It is very clear here that as a Christian counselor, when you are led by the Spirit, mistakes are not made and therapeutic resolution will be experienced.
3. Be faithful in the anointing's that God bestows upon you.
As Christian counselors we must be willing to obey God in the prophetic anointing. Only then will we be given opportunity to obey the requirements of the priestly anointing. Even further, how can God trust you with the responsibility of the kingly anointing if your not willing to be used in the priestly anointing? David slew a lion and a bear before he slew the giant! He danced in the spirit before he was appointed king. God's way is a progression and one gift does not come until your faithful with the other.
"He who is faithful in a very little (thing), is
faithful also in much; and he who is dishonest
and unjust in a very little (thing), is dishonest
and unjust also in much."
Luke 16:10 Zondervan Amplified Bible
4. Go through God's Schooling.
Although Moses had been through the highest education available, he first had to go through forty years of God's school at the back side of the desert. Here he learned how to handle and take care of sheep before he could be trusted with God's people. When he was through with God's school he said, "Who am I?", while most of us say, "Look at who I am!" When he came to the bottom of his own strength he stepped into God's power (anointing). This is when God truly begins, and when the counselor becomes a Christian counselor led by the spirit. It is in this state of heart that God will teach the Christian counselor all things (John 14:26).
5. Wait before God after he begins to use you.
Peter waited before God on top of a house just before He used him. Jesus waited before God all night before calling His apostles. In today's world if you spend all your time listening to what people say in the form of their personal stories, and sometimes fabricated lies, you won't have time to hear what God tells you to do. Man can and will lead you astray and you'll get caught up in his or her story. God never fails. This principle is especially found in the context of the counseling setting. Often individuals will attempt to hide the truth from you, but if your ear is turned to God He will always reveal accurate truth to the counselor and the truth - not what you perceive as your truth, or what the counselee perceives as their truth, but God's - will set the Counselee free from oppression and confusion. Do not misinterpret what I am saying. The counselor must be sensitive and responsive to the stories and imaginations of the counselee. However, the Christian counselor must be even more sensitive to the reasoning, intentions and directions of God!
6. Be sure to keep God's secrets.
When Samson told the secret of where his power lay, his enemies bound him and put his eyes out. If we always tell the details of how God uses us, God cannot trust us because we become boasters in our own ability to operate in what God has given us. Pride brings a fall before God and a destruction of the anointing's power that is working within us as counselors. This is why Psalms 25:14 reminds us that, "the secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him..."
7. Keep your body under subjection.
If we break God's laws then the anointing from God becomes Inactive. The smallest sin, or rebellion, will affect the quantity of the anointing that flows from the reservoir of our spirit, and of course, from our spirit into our intellect. Repentance reverses this process. This is a principle that Paul often talked about and practiced in his own life and he was truly a man anointed of God! Actually the one member of the body that stagnates the anointing more than any other is the tongue. If we as counselors can align this member with God then all other members can and will follow suit.
8. Follow Christ as your example.
For the Christian, especially those who have been trained in secular schools, it is important to not follow man's doctrine unless it first aligns and is in concert with God's doctrines. The word's that God speaks to us as counselors are Spirit and as such, when given to our counselee, will please Him and even our enemies will be at peace with us. If as Christian counselors we follow Christ then we will never get caught up in being hurt by the client - either because of some malicious accusation that is part of their own denial mechanism, or by owing counseling fees and refusing to pay them, or any other act - and acting out our own vengeance which is not of the Lord's doing. When miracles are happening with those who we counsel there is a possibility of being persecuted by those who don't understand. Jesus did say that, "He who despises you, despises me." The main point here is that with the empowering of God's anointing, we Christian counselors can roll all those persecution burdens on Him and He will take care of it.
Key Number Five
*There are Hindrances to the Flow of the Anointing.
"The (uncompromisingly) righteous shall flourish like
the palm tree (be long lived, stately, upright, useful
and fruitful:; he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon
(majestic, stable, durable and incorruptible).
Psalms 92:12 Zondervan Amplified Bible
In Psalms 92:12 God makes it clear that His intention is for us to have a fruitful, anointed ministry in our old age. The condition of our anointing depends entirely upon the righteousness that we stand for in the moment. It does not depend upon what we as Christian counselors did yesterday, nor what we intend to do tomorrow. Maintaining the anointing is not by works, but by the current condition of the heart. There are at least twelve hindrances in a counselor's life and ministry that if left uncorrected will cause the anointing to assume an inactive state. Each condition is a book in itself, and a book is forthcoming. However, for the purpose of identification I will list them here without comment.
1. Failing to spend personal time with God.
2. Persistent Disobedience to revealed truth.
3. Phoniness.
4. Holding tight to and not dealing with wrong secret thoughts.
5. Unforgiveness.
6. Touching the Lord's anointed and judging them with condemnations.
7. Pride.
8. Jealousy.
9. Lack of submission to others in authority.
10. Failure to constantly wait upon God to get His updated vision.
11. Fear of man..
12. Not fulfilling daily the commandment to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
Each of these hindrances can and will stop the flow of God's anointing in the counselor. Understanding this, and watching for these conditions in our lives will keep the counselor anointed, extremely professional and full of Godly power to overcome all evil, wrong doings and sin.
Key Number Six
*We can Co-mingle the Gifts of the Spirit, and the Fruit of the Spirit into one package - wrapped by the anointing.
To me, this is the most important key of all. Without this co-mingling of gifts, fruit and Spirit there may never be therapeutic effectiveness, either as a Christian counselor, or for your counselee. We have discovered how the gifts of the Spirit are activated and encouraged through prophetic anointing, priestly anointing and the kingly anointing. All this is wonderful but Gods reminds us that without love there is NOTHING! Love, such a simple word. Yet the details, and sometimes the understandings of what love really is, are lost in a miraid of explanation. I think that it is quite possible that the answer to what love is can be found in the same place that the anointing is found. Of all the Godly principles Love and anointing are the most difficult to understand. They are hard to understand simply because they are to be explored, understood, and activated by the heart, not the head! The book of Galatians reminds the Christian counselor that love is a fruit of the Spirit. Paul instructs the counselor that one can have all the gifts, but without love there is nothing. The conclusion here is that the fruits of the spirit play a vital role in each of the gifts and specific anointing's of God and are empowered by love. In the counseling role this translates to the discovery of a co-mingling, or inter-mingling before accurate, or long term results can take place.
I close the sixth key (and this book) with one final thought which seems to sum it all up perfectly. . .
"For out of His fullness (abundance) we all received - all
had a share and we were all supplied with - one grace after
another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing, and
even favor upon favor and gift (heaped) upon gift."
John 1:16 Zondervan Amplified Bible
That is the anointing!
Chapter Two
Therapeutic Treatment Skills
for the Christian Counselor
Chapter Two
This Section Still in Construction
Therapeutic Treatment Skills for the Christian Counselor
The Christian counselor has many Spirit borne, biblically defined, tools and skills that are given by God. These are available to the Christian counselor for utilization within the counseling environment and for the purpose of setting the captives (those who are in bondage or affliction) free.
As a Christian it is personally difficult for me to accept, or even perceive, these "gifts" from God as skills or tools. I am in conflict with myself about applying the dry and technical term of "skill" or "tool" when referring to the freely given gifts of God, or to reduce God's gifts to something manipulated, used or misused for our own benefit and glory. Perhaps I bulk because I do not want to reduce or make light of the value of God's gifts to me. Perhaps I do not want others to think that I am boasting about the gifts that God has bestowed upon me. Perhaps it could simply be that I do not fully comprehend how valuable I am to the plans and purpose of God for His children. What ever the reason, I do need to work on perceiving, receiving and utilizing God's gifts (tools for abundant living) as a vital part of my ministry towards His people and as a Christian counselor.
Tools, Skills and Gifts defined:
In order to perceive, receive and utilize, let's look at the definitions and purposes of gift giving, Skills and tools and see if we can move through this feeling of discomfort.
What is a gift and what are the purposes of gift giving?
1. First, gifts are meant to express an unexpected honoring towards an individual.
2. Gifts are given for the purpose of being a total surprise.
3. Gifts are wrapped in very appealing visual presentations to make the receiving easier.
4. Gifts are meant to fill a specific void in the individual's life.
5. Gifts are chosen and presented as a means fulfilling something that is seen as lacking in the individual's life experience.
6. The giver will most often pick a gift because of it's quality and durability.
7. A gift is given for the purpose of being used (utilized), displayed (proclaimed and owned) and enjoyed (experienced at a deep heart level).
8. Gifts are given for the purpose of broadening our experiences within life.
This certainly could be seen as the reason that God has given his children gifts. I believe, and the bible assures us, that it is God's good pleasure that we as His children enjoy life and that we enjoy life more abundantly. To see that this is accomplished He gives us certain gifts that we may perceive, receive, enjoy and utilize in order to prosper and enjoy life.
For most people receiving a gift is very uncomfortable, especially if the gift is one that is beyond our technical abilities to fully understand and utilize. This is especially true with the gifts of God. They are beyond our immediate comprehension.
What is a tool and what are the purposes of tools?
1. A tool is an item used to repair the dysfunctional.
2. There are many specialized tools, used according to the need in a given situation.
3. Tools are creatively made by master engineer (God)
4. Tools are dispensed with when the work is accomplished.
5. Tools can be dangerous if not used properly.
6. Use of the correct tool requires intimate knowledge of all tools.
7. Tools are kept readily available in case of emergency need.
8. Tools are a very personal attachment and seldom just given away.
What is a skill and what are the purposes of skills?
1. Skill is the intuitive ability to bring resolution in the time of need.
2. Skills are viewed by others on a spectrum of poorly skilled to highly skilled, while the in-between is not recognized.
3. Skillful abilities brings approval, honor and respect from others.
4. One cannot lay aside a skill. It is always active, ready to function.
5. A skill remains on the cutting edge of understanding and technology.
6. Skills are leaned not inherited. Skills do not come naturally.
7. A skill makes room for it's self.
8. A Skill has no meaning unless fully utilized.
The following list represents the Gifts, tools and skills which the Christian counselor has available:
Tools:
- Prayer (Luke 18;1, Ephesian 6:18, 1 Th 5:17, James 5:13)
- Surrender and Yielding (Ga. 2:20, Mk 14:36, Ep. 6:6, Ja. 4:15)
- Confession (Ro. 10:9, 1 Jn. 1:9, Pr. 28:13)
- Fasting
- Authority and dominion in spiritual realms (Putting on Christ &Armour of God) (Eph.6:10-18)
- Faith (natural) (Ro.10:17, Heb. 11:1, 1 Jn 5:4)
- Charity
Skills:
> Deep Compassion (Lk 7:13, Is. 30:18)
> Integrity and Virtue
> Ministry of Reconciliation (II Corinthians 5:18)
Gifts:
= Fruits of the Spirit. (Words of encouragement) (Galatians 522-23)
Love
Joy
Peace
Long-suffering
Gentleness
Goodness
Faith
Meekness
Temperance
= Gifts related "To Speak..." (1 Cor. 14:1-40)
Gift of Prophecy
Gift of Tongues
Gift of Interpretations
= Gifts related "To Know..." (i Cor. 14:1-40)
The Word of Wisdom
The Word of Knowledge
The Discerning of spirits
= Gifts of Faith (God's) (Jn 6:29, Eph 2:8)
= Gifts of Healing (1 Cor 13:28)
About the Author
Rev. Johnny Lee Shepherd is an Ordained Minister. He has served as Senior Pastor for a Baptist Church in Huntington Beach, California, Trinity Baptist Bible Fellowship in Santa Ana, California, and with The Lifeline of God in Christ Church in Upland, California.
He has served as Associate Pastor - Evangelist, for a Full Gospel Charismatic Church of 4,000 member congregation in Santa Ana, California. Through-out the 7 years at this ministry Rev. Shepherd was in charge of the Christian Counseling Center, the Children's Sunday School Program, Director of Mission Program, Academic Dean of the Pastor's Training Institute, as well as performing other ministerial duties. He has also completed two full years of Bible Training totaling 936 Hours of study with a Bible/Ministerial School.
Rev. Shepherd has completed a Masters of Science in Pastoral Counseling and a Master of Arts in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling and holds a Honorary Doctor of Divinity from the Church of Gospel Ministry in Chula Vista, California.
He is happily married to Donna Shepherd and is the father of two grown sons, a daughter and one Step Son and daughter. One son serves as Senior Pastor of a church in Apple Valley, California.
Rev. Shepherd is living in Cortez, Colorado, and is currently the Director of Shepherd's Counseling Service, member of Christian Family Fellowship House Church. Shepherd's Counseling Service is a community based Christian counseling service that provides counseling to all denominations. Rev. Shepherd has written several books on Christian Counseling, the state of the church, and has published many articles and poems about the problems of resolving issues of life crisis.
[email protected]
This page last modified on 1/28/2004