How Biblical Counseling Uses the Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Biblical Counseling and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit

At Baptism, the Holy Spirit infuses into the soul, the three theological virtues of Faith, Hope, and Love. Through the grace of God, the soul is infused with new life. These virtues if cultivated produce the four cardinal virtues or moral virtues of prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude. They guide one’s soul in its interaction with the passions and other people. The receiving of the spirit completes these virtues. In Protestant circles this is referred to as the laying of the hands and within Catholic circles this is referred to as the Sacrament of Confirmation. It is important in Biblical counseling to cultivate these gifts.

Upon receiving the Holy Spirit in Baptism and the later laying of hands, a Christian is spiritually born and later turned into a soldier for Christ. The Holy Spirit then can impart certain gifts and upon the reception of such gifts produce beautiful fruits that can adorn the Christian soul. Let us look at them.

The Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit are referred to in Isaiah 11:2-3. The gifts are as follows:
1.Wisdom- Wisdom here refers to knowledge of spiritual and practical things; a knowledge that entails guidance. The wisdom of Solomon is a good example of this gift. Wisdom is clearly a gift needed for any Christian biblical counselor.
2.Understanding- Understanding refers to a person’s ability to see clearly the laws of God and apply them in a confusing immoral world. One understands how to follow Christ in this world.
3.Counsel- Again we see counseling as a God given gift from the Spirit. This has to do with right and wrong and proper judgment. It is an internal compass for you and your clients.
4.Fortitude- One of the moral virtues is found in this group. The ability to handle hardship with Christian hope.
5.Knowledge- This knowledge refers to spiritual affairs of knowing God, his laws and revelation.
6.Piety- Humility and reverence for God
7.Fear of the Lord- Awe for God’s omnipotence and greatness.
If you are interested in the Christian Spiritual Counseling Certification Program, please review. To become a Christian Biblical Counselor, you need to complete the required courses.