Fritz Pearls and his wife are considered the pioneers behind the development of Gestalt Therapy and its numerous techniques. While, like many numerous systems, Gestalt by itself is limited by its own definitions and guidelines, but still nonetheless has supplied the counseling sciences with numerous theories as well as practices to aid counselors in helping people. Pearls, a German immigrant, spent most of his later lifetime in the USA, developing and implementing the concepts of Gestalt. It remains to this day an original way to help individuals face psychological issues and pursue change.
Gestalt focuses on the here and now and awareness of one’ internal and true emotions. Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certifications, especially in Grief Counseling
Please also review AIHCP’s numerous Behavioral Health Certifications, including Grief Counseling, Christian Counseling, Trauma Informed Care, Crisis Intervention, as well as Stress Management, ADHD Consulting, Anger Management, Clinical Hypnotherapy, EFT, and Meditation.
Gestalt Therapy
Gestalt is very focused on the now of the person. It sees current problems in how individuals hide behind their issues and avoid them. It is less concerned with issues of the past but how more so the person deals with the now and how that person transforms. It is very person centered in finding the answers in the client but unlike classical person centered therapies which has a more gentle guiding approach, Gestalt employs more direct confrontation when necessary to push a person in facing oneself in the present. Like most person centered therapies, Gestalt feels the power of change and how to live resides in the subjective reality of the person and that when a person accepts who he or she is and faces the illusions of self and takes responsibility for oneself, then one can become free and have a more healthy mental life. In this way, Gestalt looks at the wholeness of the person and challenges the person to self awareness. It is because of this approach, Gestalt is immersed in the human experience and how life is experienced. In its concern of the here and now, as well self awareness, it is more concerned with the question of how than the question of why.
Utilization of Gestalt
Pearls utilized exercises and experiments as the way to help clients find self awareness. Exercises helped clients experience the now of emotion, but experiments were deeper techniques to help a person become self aware and challenge oneself. Many of these experiments employed by the therapist was utilized as ways for the client to become self aware and how to properly express oneself to find balance with one’s inner voice. In many cases, Pearls would identify acts of phoniness by a person due to external pressures that subdued the internal personality of a person. He would note how one’s tone of voice, or facial expressions, or body postures would not match the feeling internally. He utilized various exercises and experiments to help the person break free of these uncomfortable anxieties and to better express oneself.
Gestalt therapy challenges a person to be more self aware of how the person feels
Pearls employed various linguistic alterations to a person’s vocabulary or how the person stated something in therapy. This involved utilizing personal pronouns more in the client’s speech. Instead of making a statement that was void of personal need, Pearls would instruct the person to utilize the pronoun “I” to own the statement. Instead of a passive declaration of what one desired or wanted or disliked, Pearls instructed the client to say “I need, or I want, or I dislike”. In addition, he removed such contractions as “can’t” to “won’t”. Instead of stating I cannot do something, he pushed clients to say I will not do something. Also, instead of the conjunction “but” used to imply an excuse, he instructed clients to use the word “and”. For example, if someone has a paper to write and states “I cannot write the paper tonight, but I may try to do it tomorrow”, Pearls would have the client transfer the statement to “I will not write the paper tonight and I will try do it tomorrow”. Pearls also would emphasize the use of the phrase, “I take responsibility for this”. Hence a person would say “I take responsibility for not writing the paper tonight”. This clearly shows an emphasis of owning one’s inner feelings more deeply and also expressing what one wants in a more authoritative, responsible and personal way. Excuses, passive language and not asserting one’s own needs into a sentence were signs of the person not being self aware of what one needs and not taking responsibility for it. Hence, Pearls was less concerned about other pronouns of “them” or “us” or how others make one feel but more interested in how oneself makes one feel.
In addition to speaking with more authority and emphasizing responsibility for one’s words, thoughts and actions, Pearls would help individuals identify body posture, nervous ticks, or uncomfortable laughs as the ways the body and its physiology would manifest discord between expression and the actual feeling. Pearls would frequently call a person out with confrontation for expressing oneself in contradiction to how one felt. He would suggest exaggeration of these tics, or tones, to see how truly silly or phony they were in contrast to how the person felt in the moment. Through the experiment of exaggeration, Pearls encouraged one to bite one’s lip harder, or tense their jaw more pronounced so that the person could recognize these manifestations when internal feelings emerged. The key for Pearls was to help the client discover and become aware of one’s deeper feelings in the now moment and how to properly communicate and express them. This involved analyzing one’s own bodily reactions in correlation with the feelings internally.
The most famous experiments of Pearls was the empty chair. This created an opportunity for one to confront oneself, or another in the safety and privacy of therapy. It permitted one to become aware of self, but also to express emotions that may have been kept in check. The first usage of this experiment was direct dialogue between self. For example, a middle age man may have many regrets in life and has two images of himself; namely the driving and commanding side of himself and then the more relaxed version of self. At direction of the therapist, the man would move from his chair to the other chair and imagine speaking to himself in a more authoritative way. In response, the man then would remove to his original chair and respond to his more aggressive and demanding side. This dialogue would continue to until the man discovered his many needs. In other cases, the empty chair can be utilized as a way for an individual to confront another person. This may be an ex spouse, a parent, a boss, a deceased family member, or even God. The client is encouraged to speak to this person if as the person was truly sitting there. Obviously this is an advanced therapeutic tool and should be conducted by a trained therapist due to emotional eruptions that can occur. Pearls saw this as a way for a person to truly express one’s emotions without filter or restraint free from possible danger of physical confrontation.
Conclusion
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Gestalt has many beneficial applications to help people properly express their feelings, be aware of themselves and become more connected to how they truly feel. It is beneficial for those suffering from anxiety as well as depression. However it does possess some limitations. It is more emotional in nature and does not give enough attention to the intellectual and cognitive issues surrounding mental health. It also focuses more the now without less concern for the past. Questions such as why and what are more replaced with how can we handle this now. It is also weighs heavily on one’s own personal needs for self actualization and less concern for the needs of others. This is a double edged sword if not properly put into context. Further, it possesses a more subjective morality in place of universal objective standards of behavior or morality. Yet, many of its experiments and uses are widely accepted and utilized in daily practice. Very few counselors completely adhere to one particular school over another, so the percentage is quite low of a counselor being a strictly Gestalt therapist. Most modern day counselors share Gestalt techniques and implement them with person centered therapies and behavioral therapies for maximum results.
There are many different interpretations of verses in Scripture about God and His justice and mercy. Pending on the era of time, you also have different theologians, saints and mystics expressing within God His justice or His mercy. Sometimes, one can review readings from a particular saint that produces a harsh and fearful tribunal seat of God, while others will show a loving and caring father. Even in modern times, Christianity seems to present a dual image of God. Progressives shower one with the idea of God’s infinite love, while more conservatives display a law bound God who judges and condemns. It is very important not to overweigh one attribute over the other. If one only focuses on justice, then only a half truth emerges, which only a refocus on God’s mercy can balance into the fullness of the truth. The reality is God is both just and merciful but various interpretations from Scripture or beliefs of saints and their writings can lead one to have an imbalanced spiritual view of this. Either one that is constantly fearful, or one who is too careless with the joys of the world. In addition, how God is viewed through human lens plays a big role. Scripture presents many images of God and some can be distorted when taken too literal or for that matter entirely dismissed. Anthropomorphism is common literal device used in Scripture. In these cases God can be given many human like attributes in regards to His emotional reactions to human activity as well as images as a judge in the strictly human sense. These images need to also be properly understood in context as well as symbolism to have a greater understanding of God. This blog will look at some of these realities and attempt to balance them in proper measurement in correlation with Partial Judgement of a soul who goes to Heaven or goes to Hell.
There is a balance between God’s mercy and justice. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification
God: The Loving Father of the Prodigal Son or The Fierce and Avenging Judge?
The two images above create quite a contradicting imagery but both do point to truths but when not balanced become partial truths. So many times, preachers, priests, or pastoral leaders, and even oneself finds one particular imagery of God that is superseding over all others. One’s own experience can play a large role. Spiritual individuals are attracted to certain images of God in Scriptures because it meets a need or answers an existential question that is pertinent to oneself. One’s own mental and emotional state also plays key roles in which imagery of God best fits our current need. Those who suffer from low self-esteem, or have attachment issues due to past trauma live in a state of anxiety and that state of anxiety can play a role with their relationship with God. Person’s in such mental states may have a greater fear of God, or complete imbalanced feeling of unworthiness. They may also see God as a more fierce and avenging judge. Others with a more delicate conscience or scrupulous conscience may be tormented with obsessive compulsive disorder and see God more as a judge who keeps score on the day of judgement. On the other spectrum, those who live life carelessly may need to see a parental God that dismisses foolishness and error as if it does matter what one does in life. They need a God who does not reprimand sin, but a God who only sees love. In their mind, their love of others and overall good human nature is enough-“God will not judge me but only loves me for who I am!” As one can see, these are two equally dangerous routes. Both capture an element of truth, but without each other complimenting each other, the fullness of the truth is lost.
As seen in Scripture, despite literalism or symbolism, we see a balanced approach that displays both sides of God in different books. In the parable of the Prodigal Son, one can see the untamed and complete compassion the father has for his lost son. The father never gives up loving the son and upon the son’s return, offers complete forgiveness and restoration to the son. In other imageries, one can see God as a terrifying judge who he sends souls to Hell, and casts these souls into the abyss of the wicked. The words are strong and harsh and helps illustrate the extreme disgusting nature and true evil of sin. Christ originally came as a Redeemer, but in Revelation, He is also a judger of humankind, separating the goats from the sheep. Such strong phrases as “depart from me” and “cast into Hell for the fires prepared for the wicked” all show this other side of God and Christ when judgement arrives for a soul.
Ultimately, if one wishes to truly understand God’s justice and mercy, one must understand the expression of Scripture and its aim in its full context and not individual quotes. One must be careful to avoid cherry picking of verses out of context of the chapter or theme. In addition, one must closely interpret symbolism to avoid sometimes literal interpretations that promote an anthropomorphism of God which gives Him human qualities of revenge or rage. Also, one must understand other saints or mystics interpretations of God’s justice and mercy pending on the time period they wrote and the type of language that was used. Many times as well, saints wrote in particular styles to promote one theme of God and these writings can at times seem imbalanced, especially for individuals not trained in pastoral ministry and theology. A particular saint may be illustrating God as judge and the disgusting nature of sin which can terrify a delicate soul but also at the same time promote enough self inspection and fear for a soul to change. As well, a particular saint may present writings or mystical visions that portray the totality of God’s love and the immensity of it. This may be good for a more spiritual stable soul but a message that would be dangerous for a soul who has no boundaries with sin.
In essence and answer to the leading question, God is both loving Father and fierce Judge but how one understands the true dynamics of it from a theological standpoint is essential to avoid literalistic pitfalls that can lead to scrupulous and constant fearful behavior or lax and boundless carefree behavior.
Moral Theology and Sin
Pending on one’s image of God, incomplete truths can distort one’s views on sin, but it is only when one accepts the full imagery of God, can one see the full picture of sin, self and union with God. First and foremost, Original Sin or the sin imparted on humanity after the fall of Adam, left humanity with a broken nature. The gifts of great knowledge, stronger mind and body connection and control of the passions imbedded within Adam’s character were an abilities his descendants never experienced. Through Christ’s death and application of His graces through Baptism, one again enters into full communion with God and one’s soul becomes alive through Sanctifying Grace. This however did not restore the fullness of human nature. The temporal reality and the consequences of the sin left a scar that was not wiped away after Baptism. Humanity while redeemed still was broken. While Christ reopened grace and a relationship with God through His death, the temporal reality left individuals open to sinning. Personal sin could then undo the bond of Baptism. Certain particular sins could even cut grace off from the soul. In this state without remorse, a soul again became distant from God.
St Ignatius Loyola exercises helps one examine their conscience and reflect on the justice and mercy of God
St Ignatius Loyola in his Spiritual Exercises describes sin as disgusting and deforming. Like a tumor, it tears into the soul, disfiguring it. Any sin rejects truth and the love of God. Sin is choosing self, or others over God and rejecting God’s authority. St Ignatius in his exercises challenges the soul to identify sin, to meditate on its grotesque form, and to imagine the state of a soul in mortal sin that rejects God’s love. He asks one to consider God as judge, but he also reminds us of God as father who loves. However, for whatever particular reason, in many of his meditations within the exercises, one solely focuses on God as a fearsome judge and the total worthlessness of the human person in comparison to the greatness of God. One is asked to meditate as one being a condemned criminal before a judge, as well as meditating the pains of Hell and the danger of one mortal sin. Much of this has to do with shocking the system into understanding the damage of sin and to induce a holy fear of Hell, but also a disgust for sin and a love for virtue. It also focuses to show how utterly dependent one is upon God’s grace to avoid such vile sins.
Sin is hence a great disorder and injustice itself towards God. In this way, all personal sin shares the same substance in that it damages one’s relationship with God. While all sin shares in this horrific substance, not all sins are equal in degree or depth of brokenness. It only took one sin to tear a division between God and man that Christ restored. This alone shows the vile taste of one sin and its shared characteristics but Moral theology helps one to better categorize sin, understand its objective nature, its degree, as well as the subjective interplay a sinful act has with the conscience and circumstances surrounding the agent or person committing the sin.
Personal sin is rightly divided into venial and mortal. Like human laws, degrees of severity of an offense are measured and consequences detailed through different levels of fines. A person who steals out of hunger sins differently than a person who steals from the poor. All is sin, all creates a barrier, but the level and depth of the barrier is measured by the basis of the severity of the offense. A person who commits a traffic violation remains still a good citizen despite his lapse in judgement of speeding, but an individual who murders, pillages and rapes, commits a far more grave offense to society and no longer remains a good citizen. Within the Mystical Body of Christ, offenses hurt, but the degree and multitude of the offense play a key role in whether the soul still loves God, possesses grace and remains attuned to God’s will.
Hence all sin is objectively disordered but the levels of disorder in regards to the relationship between God and the soul differ on severity. Objectively any sin remains a sin within itself. No subjective reasoning or indifference can mitigate the nature of an disordered act. The level of disorder can range objectively but the consequences of the sin can vary greatly beyond its objective label. The human act is more than a black and white event but something with multiple layers of grey. There are numerous subjective elements at play within the act of a sin. First and foremost, what is the intent of the agent committing the sin. Is the person free to act? Does the person fully intend to commit the act? In committing the act, is the person clearly articulating the acceptance of this act and all its consequences? In addition, what biological factors, psychological disorders and uncontrolled passions are at play that weaken the will? Is this act isolated or a continuous habit? Is this act done without remorse or guilt? Does one fully through this act wish to disown God? What other circumstances exist around it? Sometimes actions can become neutral that are otherwise naturally sinful-for example taking a life to defend one’s own life. What other external pressures existed? So in many cases, an objective action that is disordered possess less consequence for an individual based on other criteria.
Padre Pio saw the danger of any sin. Sin weakens union with God. Consistent sin wears one’s soul down and weakens it for greater infection. Padre Pio understood that a soul who goes to Heaven or to Hell does not randomly commit a grave sin and chooses Hell but that a soul gradually chooses Heaven or Hell over a life time. What one is when one stands before God is what one created oneself to be through a life committed and developed through virtue or vice. Habitual sin and lack of remorse leads the soul down the road of rejecting God. This is why it is critical to form a sound conscience that identifies sin as gross and disgusting and a conscience that when one does fall, immediately feels guilt and shame to confess and repent.
God’s Mercy
Sister Faustina reminds us of Christ’s infinite mercy and love
Sister Faustina is most known for her visions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and His message of mercy. The Chaplet of Mercy as a prayer begs God for pardon and remembers the sacrifice of Christ. It repeats, “for the sake of Your sorrowful passion, have mercy on me and the whole world”. The mercy of Christ and the opportunities given by God through His sacraments seeks for all to be saved. Christ shed His blood for every soul. He shed tears for each soul lost. Many mystics claim this was one of Christ’s greatest agonies–the souls who would reject His passion and grace. Within the Sacred Heart image, Jesus’s Sacred Heart pours out beams of red and white rays from His heart. This displays His infinite mercy to sinners. Like the story of the Prodigal Son, God immediately forgives a soul that seeks forgiveness. This should not be taken for granted though. How many feel they have time to change? Instead of living in the moment, they postpone what matters most.
God’s Justice
God’s justice is referenced throughout Scripture and justice is promised to the faithful. God’s justice while merciful does not permit the wicked to go unpunished. While some may over emphasize this terrifying reality, or over humanize anger and vengeance in the Lord, many need to understand there are consequences of sin. Those who dismiss sin as trivial are led by a lax conscience that does not truly see the disgusting and foul order that sin infects the soul with. God’s standard, His commandments and His laws are not arbitrary but based in the fullness of His own essence. Something is not wrong merely by proclamation for a certain day but intrinsically is wrong for everyone and for everyday. Like evil, sin is a lack of good. It is what God is not. So when one sins, one is committing a grave injustice. Christ’s blood paid the price for sin, but as followers of Christ, we must apply the graces earned through Baptism. As followers one must adhere as best one can to the laws of God. One cannot through one’s own good works earn salvation but it is through faith in Christ and grace of the Holy Spirit that one can follow the laws of God and partake in salvation.
The Divine Judgement
In Christianity, there are two judgements. The Particular Judgement occurs at one’s death bed. The General Judgement is the proclamation and judgement upon all souls. In one’s Particular Judgement, one’s eternal fate is determined. There one sees the balance of God’s justice and God’s mercy. However as discussed early, there are many visual images in Scripture, as well as mystical writings that take these things into account.
One image, as illustrated in Scripture, displays God as judge but in a more human sense. In fact, even St Ignatius in his exercises, portrays an image of God that casts souls to Hell for their wicked deeds. This image emphasizes a strong justice display, with less mercy, but this literal image is an interpretation of that judgement. One can also from a different perspective and interpretation views God as judge from a more theological standpoint immersed in moral theology that balances God’s mercy and justice with the soul.
There are two judgements. Our immediate or particular judgement and the final and general judgement described in the Book of Revelation
One may be amazed, according to Padre Pio, how many souls who seemed evil are not in Hell, and how many souls who seemed so pious are not in Heaven. Only God knows the innermost workings of the soul. As Padre Pio also pointed out, one’s judgement before God is usually not based on one event but a life time of choices that led one to become good or evil or lovers of God, or lovers of self.
Ultimately, God as our moral standard serves as the soul’s mirror at judgement. God does not cast a soul He loves into Hell. The judgement speaks for itself. The soul as if looking into a mirror recognizes what it is in all its good and evil. It is left without distraction or excuses. It is stripped of all the noise of the world and only faced with its true reflection. Did it love God in this world or did it love self? According to Padre Pio, the soul who has rejected God is a soul who will reject God at judgement. It will acknowledge His truth finally but it will reject the truth and its implementation upon itself. The imagery of God casting a soul into Hell in some ways is hence misleading. God finds no joy in this. He loves the soul despite its total corruption but due to His standard, the soul cannot accept. Like the demons and corrupt souls before, the soul in mortal sin rejects God’s friendship, His love and companionship.
Many believe that one is saved by faith alone, but believing in God does not give one salvation. Satan and his demons believe in the reality of God but they are not with Him. The simple act of faith must be energized through the grace of the Holy Spirit to produce charity. This charity varies among individuals. Scripture attests that love can cover many sins. Ultimately, everyone is unworthy of God through one single act of sin, but it is through God’s mercy that saints and sinners alike are made worthy. So, while one’s good deeds are important choices to salvation, one must attest they are never enough. It is ultimately God’s mercy and reciprocal love that is fed through faith and grace that saves the soul before the Partial Judgement. A soul that still loves God, even imperfectly, can not cease loving God. If one loved God on earth till the end, one will love God at judgement. Hell’s greatest reality is the absence of any love. A soul at judgement who goes to Hell is a soul that refused on earth to love God and continues to refuse to love God at judgement. The soul may be well aware of what he is losing but this does not lead to contrition but only further anger , blaming and blasphemy.
Ignatius sometimes appears in his exercises to sow fear of how a soul can so easily lose God and at judgement be cast away by an angry God. There is good reason to mediate upon this, but a soul that loves God, even despite mistakes, even when some sins were in the past mortal, cannot lose God if the pattern of love remains. This entails remorse for serious sin, but God does not send a soul to Hell over a trip or fall, the soul sends itself to Hell for remaining on the ground and never acknowledging the sin or seeking forgiveness. A soul that maintains love of God, may trip and fall in life, but it always bounces back up. That same soul, no more or less than a far more virtuous soul, nevertheless shares one same common theme. No-one meets the standard of God, no mirror can display a an image that makes one worthy, whether mortal or venial, but it is the grace of God that reaches out and if love is returned, then salvation is procured. Learning to love more deeply may be required before standing fully before God, but Christ and His infinite mercy supplies the necessary gap through His blood that ultimately saves the soul.
What makes a soul choose Hell? Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification
Now I do not mean to dismiss the haste in which Ignatius says a soul can lose friendship with God through mortal sin, but the act of mortal sin as an objective act and its consequences upon the subjective agent can be quite differently applied. There are many souls who share sins committed on earth who are in Heaven as those who are in Hell. The difference is contrition but also charity. A soul that occasionally falls into certain sins that are classified as mortal, such as many sexual sins, does face severe danger than mere minor sins, but again all sin separates the soul from God to some degree and how the soul responds to hurting God via love matters. A soul that goes to Hell obviously exists in Mortal sin at the time of death. Obviously, these sins have defined the soul’s character and sealed its fate. Whether they were sexual sins, or sins of murder, rape, or even cases of extreme self love and unkindness to others and complete worship of this world over God, these sins represent a pattern. There are some sins especially among the deadly that represent a median line that show a point of no return or least hint towards it. Despite this, all can be converted and changed while alive, one merely needs to look at the story of St Augustine or even St Paul, but when a serious sin becomes more than an “oops” and “mistake” but enters into a habitual state of sin that renounces God and exalts self then a serious condition of darkness envelops the soul. Unlike the angels, the human intellect cannot make a decisive decision regarding to love or serve God, instead over time, the soul develops into what it will be. Hence eventually, a soul can cross a line that has led to a serious life threatening level that if one dies in it, will result in Hell. There are death bed conversions, but when one examines the life of Hitler, Stalin, or even pedofiles and sex traffickers or those consumed by lust and the sexual industry, one can see a strong difference in the deformation of the soul between one who occasionally yet with regret fell into a few serious sins as opposed to those who lived in it all the time and became committed it to the most extreme levels.
The biggest difference for the soul that chooses Hell is one that not only commits serious sin, but accepts it, loves it and live in it. I do not wish to dismiss the frightful examples of Ignatius in his exercises of one un-repented mortal sin, but I think if one understands moral theology, the psychology of the soul, as well habit in life, one is more likely to discover that most souls who go to Hell, choose it freely and not by accidentally and remorsefully tasting sin here and there. Those with broken natures who fall into serious sin as lost children can indeed if absence of remorse can find their soul in rebellion to God, but most who have conscience, who love God despite failings, rarely allow the life style to infect themselves. Instead they turn to prayer, humility and remorse. The soul that chooses Hell loves oneself over God. The soul in Hell has no charity for others. The soul in Hell sees no wrong in its actions. The soul in Hell lived in sin and embraced it. The soul in Hell does not love God, nor His laws. The soul in Hell, whether consciously or subconsciously, committed these actions with pure love and habitual opportunity without remorse. They were not merely serious sexual or selfish sins of occasion or weakness of moment, but conscious and autonomous choices of life. There was an autonomous intent and a complete disclosure in the choices it made.
These souls at the Partial Judgement are stripped of their distractions or excuses and left with the cold verdict of God. The verdict is a lack charity or love of God or others but instead complete love of self and the world. God’s verdict and justice is declared but His mercy still extends to these individuals. This may seem surprising but God still reaches out to those who even reject His love. God is still willing to forgive, but the judgement of His perfect and true self shines so brightly that such a broken and disordered soul cannot disagree with its own deformation and mutation. The soul going to Hell knows what it is and through this mirror and judgement openly rejects the mercy that comes with the justice. So, in a complete truthful image, God does judge, but God also grants mercy. In way, God’s justice does send the soul to Hell, but it is in a far different way than one’s human sense imagines it. The soul going to Hell instead rejects God and His assessment and mercy. It rejects consequences or needed remorse. It rejects even God’s mercy. This self inflicted wound is a continuation of the habitual sinful choices during life on earth that sends the soul to Hell.
On the contrary, a soul that is both saint and sinner, reflects on its image and is brought to shame and guilt but still expresses love. This soul did not die void of grace that serious sin strips from the soul but it died with grace and its most important fruit which is love. Whether more perfectly or less perfectly, a person’s love for God travels with person before the judgement of God. This love of God over love of self is the starting point of salvation for that soul. Again whether a great saint or a pitiful sinner who still finds love of God, neither are worthy of Heaven based on their individual merit due to one’s broken nature. It is solely the grace earned by Christ and one’s cooperation throughout life with grace that permits anyone to enter into union with God. The graces that energized faith and hope now fade because faith and hope have delivered what was promised. As Scripture foretells, what then remains is love. If love remains in a soul, then that soul remains in the state of grace. This soul tried its best to avoid sin, as well as serious sin, and when it fell, it humbly sought forgiveness and purged itself with tears and penance. Unlike the soul that chose Hell by its continual choices on earth, the same soul that chose Heaven chose God for most of its life and at the very end. Despite its sins, despites its failures, God and the saved soul share a reciprocal love that manifests acceptance of God’s love and will. The soul then understands clearly that it may not have loved God as much as it needed on earth but God’s love and grace has sanctified it and made it worthy.
Conclusion
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When exploring the judgement of God and his justice and mercy, the motifs of God as judge, are applicable, and true. God is just. However, He is also merciful. He is both the God of justice but also the God of mercy as the Prodigal Son illustrated in Christ’s parable. God understands human beings are broken despite His Son’s death on the cross. He is patient, He is loving and waits for His sheep like the Good Shepherd. He does not despise the wicked but rejects their actions. He judges them based on their own deeds and decisions in life. He offers justice but also offers mercy. Ultimately, the soul dictates its future. I think it is important pending on the season or need to review both God’s justice and mercy. Ignatius will presenting a merciful God, also presents a terrifying view of judgement, Hell and the nature of sin. In addition balance this with Padre Pio’s teaching on the choice of Hell being usually more so a life time choice over time and self love and to be aware of how sin breaks us down over time. We still must be alert of individual sin in the moment, but we must remain strong and steadfast to identify it and repent from it. Sister Faustina’s Divine Mercy also displays Christ’s great love and mercy that one can find. So balance in understanding God’s mercy but also justice can help one remain steadfast in confidence of God’s love but also our own important role in keeping the commandments.
In closing, f anyone is a parent, then one understands the deep love one has a for one’s child or children. One never gives up on a child and loves the child even when the child does wrong. When the child does not seek reconciliation, it painfully hurts. Even when they walk away, the hand still extends for the child who never looks back again. While God in Scripture is seen as judge and rightfully so, it is important to see God also as a parent. Unlike some of the more vivid meditations of St Ignatius, God’s judgement does cast those to Hell but not maybe the way one envisions it, but more so as a parent who displays what must be obeyed if one chooses to return and the consequences hereafter. If the child shows just the bit of love, God, like a parent, can capitalize on that but if the child shows no love or desire to obey, and chooses instead to reject the parent, then based off his analogy, God can only watch the person enter into Hell. The terrifying reality that one sends oneself to Hell. So remain vigilant to sin, but most importantly avoid serious sin. If one falls, allow one’s conscience to identify and seek repentance. Sin is deadly and builds upon the soul and hopes to turn one serious event into continuous a life style. Maintain charity and love of God with remorse. If so, when one stands before God, it will not be a strange judge, but a loving parent.
Meaning of existence plays a key role in understanding one’s daily trials, anxieties, stresses, as well as losses. Meaning in life can re-interpret an event for a person. From an bad event, individuals with meaning, can move forward with a better understanding and a fuller interpretation within life. Those without meaning to loss, or meaning to horrible things can fall victim to hopelessness and despair. Without an anchor of meaning, one can be swept by the various currents of life with no true direction. Existential philosophy, as well as Existential therapy, looks to find meaning in life. In this short blog, we will examine Existentialism and its influence on Existential therapy, as well as address the critical necessity of meaning in grief counseling, as well as conflicting issues between Christian theology and Existentialism.
Existentialist therapy helps individuals find meaning in loss and to also face existential anxiety. Please also review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification as well as its Christian Counseling Program
Please review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification, as well as AIHCP’s Christian Grief Counseling Certification and see if they meet your academic and professional goals.
Existentialist Philosophy and Therapy
Existentialist philosophy has two branches. One which encompasses a theist and sometimes Christian perspective, as well as an atheistic or nihilist branch. Philosophers such as Gabriel Marcel, Soren Kirkegaard and Paul Tillich approach existentialism from a theistic perspective, while others such as Frederick Nietzsche, Martin Heidegger and Paul Sarte present a atheistic and nihilist approach to existence. The core of the philosophy addresses humanity’s existential realities without reserve. Death, choice, freedom, isolation and meaning or lack of meaning in life are all important aspects of that cannot be ignored. Within this state of humanity, existence and its subjective and phenomenological interpretation of that existence details what a person is to be or find meaning in. There is no collective pre-existing template or essence of the human blueprint, but merely existence. As Sarte famously stated, “existence precedes essence” which at its core puts a subjective morality and choice at odds with a pre-existing objective template of reality and moral choice.
Humanity’s freedom to choose and become without fear is one of the guiding principles of non-theistic existentialist approach. As Frederick Nietzsche proposed, one must courageously drop the shackles of objective morality or the concept of God and become a “super man” who forges forward with great courage in creating one’s own essence and identity. While this is not the purpose of this blog to counter theological arguments over moral objectivity and the existence of God, this type of existentialist thought obviously places more power over one’s own decision what is good or evil.
Existentialist philosophy looks at human experience as a way one encounters life and discovers meaning. Through one’s inner self, one’s self with nature and one’s self and experiences with others. Human beings are free to relate and form one’s own meanings based on these three basic levels of existence (Tan, 2022). In this self discovery, one must be true to one’s self or authentic. It is when one ceases to be authentic with self, that pathology emerges. This becomes difficult because of natural existential dread and anxiety which in itself is not a bad thing but quite a natural thing. Within existential anxiety, one must deal with death and life, the need to act or not act, isolation versus companionship, and finally meaning or meaninglessness (Tan, 2022). A healthy existence is when these issues are faced, discussed and analyzed. When one does not dismiss these truths, as well as live authentically with oneself, then one finds a healthy balance in life.
Nietzsche presented an atheistic and nihilist perspective to finding meaning in existence
Tan lists some of the key elements of existentialist philosophy of being human. He lists first, the capacity for awareness, second, freedom and responsibility, third, creating identity and establishing relationships, fourth, searching for meaning, fifth, accepting anxiety as part of life and finally, awareness of death and non being (2022). It is when one lies to oneself and avoids these principles that pathology can occur in life. Rollo May, a existentialist therapist contends that anxiety is a critical part of life itself and now all of it is toxic but something that needs faced and addressed. Clients need taught how to face anxiety and solve the issues and problems while remaining true to oneself (Tan, 2022).
Application of Meaning in Life
Victor Frankl, a holocaust survivor, discussed in detail the grave importance of finding meaning in life, especially, in loss and suffering. He saw a deeper purpose that could help drive one beyond the mere presence of suffering. His meaning was found in love and the dignity of the human person to push beyond mere tasks and elevate them to a higher power. In this way, Frankl was not atheistic in existential thought and like others, saw the importance of spirituality as a way to find meaning. Kirkegaard also saw the importance of emptying one’s anxiety and existential angst into the grounding of all existence which is God. Hence, while to some therapists, meaning can be subjective and coming from within the person, other theistic existentialists promote the possibility that meaning can come from an outside source.
Regardless, the power of meaning is a strong driving force in interpreting life events. Frankl helped individuals find deeper meaning in his Logotherapy which utilized four primary techniques. First, he employed the Socratic dialogue, second, paradoxical intent, dereflection and attitude modification (Tan, 2022). Within the Socratic dialogue, one is directed to take a complete inventory of one’s life. This helps the person discover direction but also what matters most. Within paradoxical intent, Logotherapy looks to present the absurdity of a habit or behavior by exaggerating it. Within dereflection, the therapist helps the client see other elements of an event. In this way it hopes to utilize a type of behavioral cognitive therapy where the individual rethinks the event in different perspectives. The idea is not to dismiss or devalue the event but to approach it from different aspects. Finally, attitude modification, helps the client to change certain views or behaviors by not lamenting over the past which cannot be changed, but instead by learning from it and making good changes.
Frankl saw in humanity that all are good initially at one’s core and that it was the purpose of the therapist to help enlighten a person of one’s inner talents to utilize the goodness of the inner core. He also pointed out that life has meaning and it is one’s goal to find meaning, which usually should be in something transcending, albeit, life does not guarantee happiness even with meaning, However, it the meaning and finding that meaning in the moment that all can find direction even in the most worst case scenarios. In this way, a person retains his core, his uniqueness as well as his freedom.
Meaning and Grief
Finding meaning in existence is key but especially when loss and grief occur.
Existential philosophy and therapy plays a key role in grief and loss. Robert Neimeyer has emphasized the critical importance of meaning making in loss. Meaning is essential in understanding the nature of the loss and how the loss plays a role in the overall life of a person. Individuals who utilize meaning and find meaning not only in loss but overall life can find smoother ways to adapt to the loss and move forward with the loss incorporated into one’s life. Those without meaning struggle with suffering and loss. This was also the case that Frankl noticed in the Nazi concentration camps. Those who lost hope or meaning, even meaning in the most dire situations, would gradually fade quicker to despair and death.
Existential philosophy also demands that we do not hide from natural anxieties. In the modern world, death becomes a taboo subject, but in the lens of existentialism, it is something that should be addressed, confronted and spoken about. If we ignore death, if we ignore unpleasant thoughts of non being, then one is not living authentically according to existentialist philosophy. Existentialist therapists will help clients face the loss, understand it, and find meaning moving forward from the loss. These are all concepts and techniques that coincide with modern bereavement science.
Existentialism and Christian Counseling
As stated, there are many forms of existentialism. Some forms adapt a Christian view on life that surrenders the existential experience to God under the example of Christ. In addition, many of the concepts are concepts to use in counseling. Seeking to find answers about existence, freedom, responsibility and meaning are important concepts for the Christian but the answers from secular existentialism seeks the inner self and experience instead of the moral law of God and established dogma. In secular settings, existentialism can allow one to become one’s own god in decisions. It also tends to find most pathology from within or failure to acknowledge the existential anxieties of life and ignores many other sources of issues. Many issues stem from also biological or social settings, not just one’s imbalance with authenticity and existential anxieties (Tan, 2022).
Again, when one surrenders oneself to the autonomous self, one does not find true peace or meaning as secular existentialists would contend. That peace is through surrender of one’s anxieties to God, which is a self grounding in the Self (Tan, 2022). Kierkagaard illustrates this importance, and even Frankl addresses the surrender of self to something to a higher transcendence as something more benefitting and long lasting than merely surrender to the autonomous self. In these ways, some concepts of existentialism are useable in Christian Counseling with a strong precaution of avoiding its more secular and atheistic roots.
Conclusion
There are many good and bad aspects of existentialist therapy. Please review AIHCP’s Healthcare Certifications
Existentialist therapy while more so a philosophy than a true therapeutic concept employs meaning as a key concept for modern counseling. Meaning is essential for understanding loss, suffering and death. Existentialist therapy also helps one to not ignore the anxieties of life but to face them and find meaning in them. While some aspects of it have theistic wrappings, other elements are more atheistic in thought and look for the autonomous self and one’s authenticity to help build one’s character. This leads one ultimately to a subjective perspective on each person’s meaning of life as opposed to an objective and more dogmatic one. Regardless of belief, it has numerous benefits for counseling, in particular for Grief Counseling. Obviously, if not religious, the power of meaning in life, even if subjective, can be a powerful source for success in the world.
Please also review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Program as well as AIHCP’s Christian Grief Counseling Program and Christian Counseling Program. AIHCP also offers a wide range of secular programs in grief but also as well in both healthcare and behavioral healthcare programs.
This video takes a closer look at the inner connections between the brain and the soul. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Courses and see if they meet your academic and professional goals
Christian Counseling is biblical and faith based principles integrated with psychology to help produce healthy emotional, mental and spiritual change
Christian counselors play a growing role in treating complex mental health issues today. They combine faith and psychology to treat the whole person. These professionals offer support that goes beyond standard psychological treatment alone. Mental health problems are rising. This is true in colleges where stress and emotional pain are common. The need for compassionate, faith-based guidance is more urgent than ever. Christian counselors use therapeutic techniques. They also introduce spiritual elements that connect with individuals who seek comfort in their beliefs. They use mindfulness and meditation practices. Studies show these methods improve stress and mindfulness for participants in online centering programs. This proves the method works well. Christian counselors are key guides for healing the mind and spirit. They fulfill a special calling to serve people in emotional pain.(John C Thomas et al., 2023)(Dorais S et al., 2021). Thus, Christian counselors stand as essential facilitators in the journey of healing both mind and spirit, embodying a unique calling to serve those in emotional turmoil.
Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.
II. Definition of Christian counseling
Christian counseling combines psychological principles with biblical teachings. It helps individuals with their emotional, spiritual, and relational needs. The approach aids healing by focusing on a relationship with God. Counselors view clients based on their spiritual beliefs and values. This counseling recognizes that individuals often struggle with internalized oppression. This struggle can block psychological health and spiritual growth. Christian counselors use methods that build understanding and connection. These techniques keep the therapeutic relationship authentic and nurturing. Technology changes the therapy field. Christian counseling adapts to modern tools and stays relevant in a digital world. The goal is to strengthen individuals. It guides them toward a deeper knowledge of their identity in Christ. This process supports mental health and emotional resilience.(Teeomm K Williams, 2022). Furthermore, Christian counselors employ techniques that promote understanding and connection, ensuring that the therapeutic relationship remains authentic and nurturing. As technology increasingly shapes the therapeutic landscape, Christian counseling also adapts to modern modalities, maintaining relevance in a digitally connected world (Zeavin H, 2021). Ultimately, Christian counseling aims to empower individuals, guiding them toward a deeper understanding of their identity in Christ while facilitating mental health and emotional resilience.
III. Importance of mental and spiritual health
We look at the link between mental and spiritual health. This reveals critical facts about total well-being. It is especially true in the field of Christian counseling. Spiritual health is a strong base for mental resilience. It offers individuals a sense of purpose and a community. These factors lower stress and help healing. The comprehensive model appears in Indigenous wholistic theory. It highlights the value of mixing emotional, relational, and spiritual parts in therapy [citeX]. Research shows that people who mix their religious identities with their work roles feel better mentally. They also report higher job satisfaction [citeX]. This alignment is crucial for Christian counselors. They manage the details of their faith while they provide care. This helps them bring healing to other people. We must prioritize mental and spiritual health. This improves individual lives. It also strengthens the community structure that supports resilience and hope.(Absolon K, 2020). Moreover, research indicates that individuals who successfully harmonize their religious identities with their professional roles often experience enhanced psychological well-being and job satisfaction (YingFei Héliot et al., 2019). This alignment is particularly vital for Christian counselors who navigate the intricacies of their faith while providing care, as it empowers them to facilitate healing in others. Thus, prioritizing mental and spiritual health not only enriches individual lives but also strengthens the communal fabric that nurtures resilience and hope.
Overview of the counselor’s role in healing
Counselors connect psychological support with spiritual guidance. They play a main part in the healing process. Their work includes therapeutic interventions and the creation of a safe environment. Individuals can explore their inner struggles in this space. The relationship between counselor and client changes over time. This is especially true with new technology, which has redefined traditional therapy methods. Teletherapy marks a change in the therapeutic relationship. It proves that communication technology improves access and closeness in therapy. Specific populations like Indigenous peoples show the profound impact of culturally attuned counseling. This care includes self-governance, culture, and spirituality. These elements lead to better healing results. The counselor’s job goes beyond conversation. They treat the whole person to restore the mind and spirit.(Zeavin H, 2021). Furthermore, specific populations, such as Indigenous peoples, reveal the profound impact of culturally attuned counseling that incorporates elements of self-governance, culture, and spirituality, leading to improved healing outcomes (Fast E et al., 2020). Ultimately, the counselors role transcends mere conversation, embodying a holistic approach that seeks to restore both mind and spirit.
IV. The Theological Foundation of Christian Counseling
The idea of counseling is Christ based and involves love of neighbor which entails instruction, admonishment, counsel, as well as comforting
The theological base of Christian counseling connects deeply with spirituality and well-being. This reflects the practice’s focus on the whole person. Christian counseling recognizes that the human soul needs a connection with a higher power. Therapists include spiritual beliefs in their sessions to meet this need. Research shows that spirituality improves deep well-being. A person’s spiritual life affects their overall mental health and quality of life. Pastoral leaders also address hard issues, such as witch accusations against children in some communities. This shows a growing reliance on faith-based methods for social and psychological problems. These examples prove that Christian counselors must base their work on theological principles. These principles prioritize healing. They also help people thrive within their community and spirit.(Carol D Ryff, 2021). Additionally, the role of pastoral leaders in addressing complex issues, such as witch accusations against children in certain communities, illustrates the increasing reliance on faith-based frameworks for psychological and social dilemmas (Robert J Priest et al., 2020). Such examples underscore the necessity for Christian counselors to ground their practices in theological principles that not only prioritize healing but also promote flourishing within the broader context of community and spirituality.
Biblical principles guiding counseling practices
Biblical principles form the foundation for Christian counseling. This method looks at the whole person and includes both spiritual and psychological parts of life. Counselors know that mental distress often mixes with spiritual beliefs. Faith shapes how people see their struggles. Counselors must handle the complex ways this happens. Many evangelical groups attribute emotional issues to spiritual causes like sin or demonic influences. This is known as negative spiritualization. It shames mental health problems. It stops individuals from getting secular help. Faith-based methods must also respect the different social and cultural realities people face. This avoids a narrow approach to counseling. Christian counselors base their practice on biblical teachings and use modern psychological findings. They help heal the mind and the spirit.(Christopher E M Lloyd, 2021). Additionally, the integration of faith-based interventions must acknowledge the diverse sociocultural realities individuals face, thereby avoiding one-dimensional approaches to counseling (Istratii R et al., 2023). Ultimately, by grounding their practice in biblical teachings while remaining sensitive to contemporary psychological insights, Christian counselors can effectively foster healing for both mind and spirit.
The integration of faith and psychology
Combining faith and psychology creates a unique path for complete healing in Christian counseling. This mix shows that spirituality and mental health can work together. Theology supports the biopsychosocial model of humans. It addresses spiritual and psychological sides. Matthew A. LaPine notes that modern neuropsychology proves mental distress needs more than just spiritual reflection. We need a balanced plan that accepts biological factors (). Research shows faith-based coping methods produce major benefits. Participants felt grounded and resilient when they used faith for coping (). Christian counselors using this method can better serve diverse needs and help total recovery.(Matthew A LaPine, 2022)). Furthermore, research indicates that faith-based coping mechanisms yield significant mental health benefits—participants reported feeling grounded and resilient when faith was incorporated into their coping strategies ((Ozcan O et al., 2021)). Thus, Christian counselors equipped with this integrative approach can better meet the diverse needs of those they serve, promoting comprehensive healing.
The role of prayer and spiritual guidance in counseling
Prayer and spiritual guidance are important parts of counseling. They match the wider goals of treating the whole person. Christian counselors often use prayer to build deeper emotional connections. This improves therapy results. It is helpful for clients who want to align their faith with their mental well-being. Using spirituality acts as a coping method. It also builds strength during hard times. Academic work shows that spiritual practices affect mental health. This suggests a strong connection between mindfulness and public health plans. These plans would benefit from more religious and cultural changes. Counseling methods are changing. The move to online tools during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic presents new opportunities. Counselors can include spiritual practices in online formats. This maintains community and support during social distancing.(Oman D, 2023). Moreover, as the landscape of counseling evolves, the shift toward virtual platforms during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, presents unique opportunities for integrating spiritual practices within digital formats, thus maintaining community and support amidst social distancing (Heidi A Campbell, 2020).
V. The Skills and Techniques of Effective Christian Counselors
In addition to a strong faith and education in theology, Christian Counselors need to have a strong understanding of counseling itself as well as psychology. Some may exist at only pastoral levels while others may have deeper education at the professional and clinical level
Effective Christian counselors mix spiritual wisdom with psychological skill. They address the complex needs of their clients with this combination. These professionals use prayer, scripture, and reflection. These habits build trust and help the counselor understand the client’s spiritual life. Counselors listen actively and use empathy to create a safe place. Clients feel valued and understood in this setting. Relationships matter here. Studies show spiritual exercises improve emotional health and aid personal growth. This idea matches the philosophy of Pierre Hadot . Modern therapy sees the limits of strictly non-religious methods. Christian counselors support a complete model for psychological and spiritual needs. This meets a need for cultural and spiritual inclusion, especially in diverse communities . This comprehensive view makes Christian counselors key figures in mental health and spiritual care.(Ding X et al., 2022). Furthermore, as modern therapy increasingly recognizes the shortcomings of a purely secular approach, Christian counselors advocate for a holistic model that addresses both psychological and spiritual dimensions, echoing the call for therapies that encompass broader cultural and spiritual understandings, particularly in diverse communities (G Rassool H, 2021). This holistic perspective positions Christian counselors as pivotal figures in the realm of mental health and spiritual care.
Active listening and empathy in counseling
Active listening and empathy are foundational skills in counseling, especially in Christian contexts. They build deep and meaningful connections between counselor and client. These skills help counselors understand and validate the experiences and emotions of the people they serve. This creates a safe and supportive environment for healing. Counselors use reflective listening to show they care about the nuances of each person’s story. This attention is necessary for effective guidance. Empathy improves therapeutic results. It also aligns with Christian teachings of compassion and understanding. Pastoral leaders demonstrate this, such as those with l’Équipe Pastorale auprès des Enfants en Détresse. Active listening helps address complex issues like child-witch allegations. It helps vulnerable individuals receive appropriate care and protection. These practices show the healing nature of Christian counseling. Counselors act as healers of both mind and spirit.(Heidi A Campbell, 2020)(Robert J Priest et al., 2020). Ultimately, these practices exemplify the healing nature of Christian counseling, enabling counselors to act as healers of both mind and spirit.
Techniques for addressing spiritual crises
Christian counselors use various techniques to address spiritual crises. They help people build resilience and heal. Reaching Up is a primary method. It encourages people to reconnect with their spiritual, religious, and ethical values during times of existential uncertainty. This technique provides strength. It also offers a way to understand one’s place within a broader divine story. Counselors also suggest Reaching In. This focuses on introspection and creating joyful, meaningful experiences in relationships. These actions soothe the isolation felt during crises. People engage in community and family activities that promote environmental consciousness, as outlined in . This builds social support systems and addresses deep existential concerns. Christian counselors use these techniques to guide people through spiritual turmoil. They lead clients toward restoration and hope. This work strengthens personal and community resilience, as seen in ..(Fraenkel P et al., 2020), also serves to build social support systems while addressing deeper existential concerns. Thus, through these multifaceted techniques, Christian counselors play a critical role in guiding individuals through spiritual turmoil toward restoration and hope, enhancing both individual and communal resilience as noted in (Zhang N et al., 2021).
The importance of confidentiality and trust in the counselor-client relationship
Confidentiality and trust are the foundation of the counselor-client relationship. This is especially true in Christian counseling. Counselors maintain privacy to create a safe space. Clients feel free to express their deep thoughts and struggles. They do not fear judgment or consequences. This trust builds a setting that supports healing. Clients are then more likely to join openly in the therapy process. Research on sustainable practices in human resource management highlights the value of supportive environments. These settings improve employee resilience and engagement (). Christian counselors must build a similar environment for their clients. They must keep trust intact. Strategies used by community health workers show that strong relationships depend on addressing disparities and barriers. This confirms that counselors must protect confidentiality to reduce unfairness in healing ().(Lu Y et al., 2022)). Similarly, Christian counselors are called to cultivate such an environment for their clients, ensuring that trust is intact. Moreover, the strategies employed by community health workers reveal that effective relationships hinge on addressing disparities and barriers, reinforcing the necessity for counselors to remain vigilant in preserving confidentiality to mitigate inequities in healing ((Ahmed S et al., 2022)).
VI. The Impact of Christian Counseling on Individuals and Communities
Christian counseling reaches far beyond individual therapy sessions. It builds complete healing within communities. This method adds faith to the therapy process. It builds spiritual strength, and this can help treat trauma . Counselors help clients connect deeply to their spiritual beliefs. They help people handle personal crises and build bonds within the group. Ideas about community and group healing often come from indigenous theories. These concepts show the value of connection in therapy . Counselors lead people toward growth and spiritual satisfaction. They also help communities stand strong against shared struggles. This two-sided focus improves personal well-being. It creates a helpful space for group healing. Christian counseling is key to maintaining mental and spiritual health. It supports both individuals and their communities.(Fast E et al., 2020). By facilitating a deep connection to one’s spiritual beliefs, Christian counselors aid clients in navigating personal crises while simultaneously fostering communal bonds. The principles of community, relationship, and collective healing, often drawn from indigenous wholistic theories, highlight the importance of interconnectedness in therapeutic practices (Absolon K, 2020). As counselors guide individuals towards personal growth and spiritual fulfillment, they simultaneously empower communities to cultivate resilience against shared adversities. This dual focus not only enhances individual well-being but also nurtures a supportive environment wherein collective healing can flourish. Consequently, the impact of Christian counseling can be seen as vital in maintaining the mental and spiritual health of both individuals and their communities.
Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling program and understand the role of a Christian Counselor in helping others.
Case studies demonstrating successful outcomes
Christian counseling case studies show many successful outcomes across different populations. For example, teletherapy offers a new approach. It keeps therapy working well while it overcomes barriers like distance and isolation. The pandemic made this need clear. Psychotherapy has used technology over time to help people heal. It forms a “distanced intimacy” that supports those who seek mental health aid [cite]. Interventions for Indigenous populations show that adding cultural and spiritual elements works. Research finds that culture and spirituality build resilience. This aids healing from historical trauma, as seen with Canada’s First Nations [cite]. These studies prove that Christian counselors are adaptable. They promote complete healing.(Zeavin H, 2021). Furthermore, specific interventions targeting Indigenous populations showcase how integrating cultural and spiritual dimensions into counseling practices yields transformative results. Research indicates that connections to culture and spirituality foster resilience and healing among individuals and communities affected by historical trauma, particularly in contexts similar to Canada’s First Nations (Fast E et al., 2020). These diverse case studies underscore the adaptability and effectiveness of Christian counselors in promoting comprehensive healing.
The role of Christian counselors in community mental health
Christian counselors in community mental health do more than provide simple therapeutic intervention. Their work combines spiritual well-being with psychological support. These professionals offer specific views on the healing process. They use faith-based principles to build resilience and hope in individuals who face mental health challenges. They understand the complex nature of internalized oppression as discussed in the field. This knowledge helps clients face feelings of inadequacy and estrangement to find deeper healing. Also, the rise of teletherapy makes Christian counseling more accessible. Practitioners can reach individuals in isolated or underserved populations. This combined method relieves mental distress and supports spiritual growth. It makes Christian counselors important parts of the community mental health system.(Teeomm K Williams, 2022), Christian counselors can facilitate deeper healing by empowering clients to confront feelings of inadequacy and estrangement. Furthermore, the rise of teletherapy, explored in (Zeavin H, 2021), amplifies the accessibility of Christian counseling, allowing practitioners to reach individuals in isolated or underserved populations. This multifaceted approach not only aims to alleviate mental distress but also nurtures spiritual growth, positioning Christian counselors as vital components in the broader framework of community mental health care.
Challenges faced by Christian counselors in diverse settings
Christian counselors often face difficult challenges in diverse settings. They try to combine traditional Christian values with the different cultural beliefs of their clients. This balance is harder in multicultural environments. Pluralistic views can conflict with biblical teachings. These conflicts might push clients away or stop therapeutic progress. Technology in counseling, like AI-assisted platforms, also creates ethical dilemmas. It questions authenticity and human connection. These traits are central to good spiritual guidance. Faith also meets social issues like intimate partner violence. Counselors must handle these sensitive topics. They need to work with religious leaders and respect differing cultural contexts and theological views. Christian counselors must build cultural competence and adaptability. They need to meet the specific needs of diverse groups. They must do so while staying true to their calling as healers of mind and spirit.(Khader I Alkhouri, 2024). Furthermore, the intersection of faith and social issues, such as intimate partner violence, requires counselors to navigate sensitive topics while engaging with religious leaders in a manner that respects differing cultural contexts and theological interpretations (Istratii R et al., 2023). Ultimately, Christian counselors must cultivate cultural competence and adaptability to effectively address the nuanced needs of diverse populations while remaining true to their calling as healers of mind and spirit.
VII. Conclusion
The calling to become a Christian Counselor is an important one. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification
The work of Christian counselors as healers of mind and spirit is a serious responsibility. It offers a major chance for growth in mental health care. These counselors combine faith with psychological principles. They give therapeutic support and build a deeper view of human suffering and resilience. They address the spiritual parts of mental health with their clients. This encourages a complete approach to healing that considers the details of personal stories. Ethical questions in counseling practice create new challenges too. This applies especially with new technology. These situations require care. Recent research points to internalized oppression and changes in how therapy happens. *The Distance Cure* explores these communication shifts. These factors show the need for flexible and kind counseling. This double focus on spirituality and ethics raises the profession. It improves the value for the people they serve.(Teeomm K Williams, 2022)(Zeavin H, 2021). This dual focus on spirituality and ethical practice ultimately serves to elevate the profession, enhancing its value in the lives of those served.
Summary of the counselor’s calling and responsibilities
The counselor’s calling involves a deep commitment to helping individuals reach mental and spiritual wellness. This duty comes from professional ethics and a sense of vocation. Counselors believe they act as instruments of healing. They create a space for clients to examine feelings and face internalized oppression. Clients build strength through dialogue and reflection. This idea matches literature on internalized oppression. Subordinated groups may struggle with self-image and agency. They need skilled guidance to handle these challenges. The counselor’s role also connects to a divine calling, especially in Christian settings. Practitioners view their work as a spiritual mission to support people. This view highlights compassion and moral duty. It helps address the complex parts of human life.(Teeomm K Williams, 2022). Furthermore, the counselor’s role often involves a relationship with a divine calling, particularly in Christian contexts, where practitioners view their work as part of a spiritual mission to support others. Such a framework emphasizes the importance of compassion and moral responsibility in addressing the complexities of human experience (Wightman S et al., 2022).
The future of Christian counseling in a changing society
Society continues to change. The future of Christian counseling must use new technology. But it must also stay grounded in its core spiritual principles. Teletherapy has led to a shift toward remote sessions. This trend reveals the ability to expand access to mental health services for people who seek Christian guidance. This growth requires an ethical plan to protect the sanctity of the counseling relationship. Connections through screens must not hurt the depth or truth of spiritual healing. The field also highlights cultural and spiritual strength. This focus responds to historical trauma. It shows that context is important in counseling work. Christian counselors adjust to these shifts. They fulfill their calling as healers of mind and spirit. They support complete well-being in a diverse and digital society.(Zeavin H, 2021). This development, however, necessitates an ethical framework that safeguards the sanctity of the therapeutic relationship, ensuring that connections through screens do not compromise the depth and authenticity of spiritual healing. Furthermore, the emphasis on cultural and spiritual resilience, particularly in response to historical traumas, reflects a growing recognition of the importance of context in counseling practices (Fast E et al., 2020). By adapting to these changing dynamics, Christian counselors can fulfill their calling as healers of mind and spirit, fostering holistic well-being in an increasingly diverse and digital society.
Encouragement for aspiring counselors to embrace their calling
Aspiring counselors often face a tough choice regarding their calling in mental health and spiritual guidance. This path is not just a career. It is a pledge to serve others and help them heal. Social work emphasizes holistic views. This approach supports a wider definition of healing that goes beyond normal limits. It encourages future counselors to study methods based on culture and spirit . Understanding effective leadership in church groups also helps. This knowledge highlights the value of relationships and support systems. These systems build strength in both counselors and their clients . Counselors who accept this calling become powerful changemakers. They connect the physical and spiritual sides of care.(Bird MY et al., 2020). Moreover, understanding effective leadership styles within church communities can enhance this endeavor, as it underscores the importance of relational dynamics and support systems that foster growth and resilience among both counselors and their clients (Keita Y et al., 2020). Ultimately, embracing this calling allows aspiring counselors to become crucial agents of transformation, bridging the temporal and spiritual dimensions of care.
People today seek emotional health and spiritual growth. These desires often meet in Christian counseling. Here, practitioners try to live out the essence of the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit. These virtues are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, faith, modesty, self-control and chastity. They serve as core principles that guide individuals toward a satisfying life. People grow these fruits to improve their character. This also builds deep connections within communities. Counselors mix Christian beliefs with psychological ideas. They treat difficult emotional issues and build spiritual strength. This combined method sees the link between mental and spiritual health. It leads to real healing and growth. This essay will examine the value of these fruits in Christian counseling. It shows their key role in shaping a complete therapy style that fits with faith and mental wellness.
The fruits of the Holy Spirit are manifestations of the grace of God active in the soul cultivating these fruits and virtues which reflect a good Christian life. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification
Unlike the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, the Fruits are virtues that manifest within the soul due to the grace and presence of the Holy Spirit within the person’s life. The grace of the Holy Spirit helps the soul cultivate these virtues and be a reflection of the goodness of God. Counselors can help cultivate these virtues by educating their clients, as well as helping guide certain behaviors that reflect these virtues in everyday life. Many of these virtues or gifts also play key roles not only in a healthy spiritual life but also in facing emotional and mental problems of life.
Christian counseling combines psychological principles with Christian theology. It aims to support total well-being and spiritual growth. This approach values the mix of faith and therapy. It guides individuals toward healing and self-understanding using Christian teachings. The application of the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit is central to this practice. These fruits serve as a framework for counseling goals. They also build virtue in the lives of clients. The counselor and client define biblical principles during their time together. Values like love, patience, and kindness help individuals manage personal crises. Recent literature notes that a deep respect for divine guidance should support the counseling experience. This focus goes beyond mental health improvements to include spiritual formation. The idea matches the belief that honor Dei must inform servant leadership in the church.(Oman D, 2023)(Harianto H et al., 2023).
Understanding the twelve fruits of the Holy Spirit is central to Christian counseling. These virtues include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, modesty, chastity, faith and self-control. They form a base for personal growth and relationships. Each fruit reveals a trait of a life led by the Holy Spirit. This encourages individual change and builds compassion and empathy in counseling. For instance, patience and gentleness are critical for counselors to manage client challenges well. They create a supportive and understanding environment that aids healing. These fruits also align with ethical standards in various parts of life. This connects to the idea that complete well-being depends on ethical decisions and spiritual guidance. Discussions on food ethics and public health highlight this link [citeX]. Counselors act on these fruits to build deeper connections with clients. This nurtures their spiritual and emotional health.(Varzakas T et al., 2024)(Oman D, 2023). By embodying these fruits, counselors can facilitate a deeper connection with clients, nurturing their spiritual and emotional health.
Adding spiritual principles to counseling is a key part of total healing and personal growth. Counselors use the Twelve Fruits of the Holy Spirit, like love, joy, and peace. This builds a helpful space that feeds the emotional and spiritual sides of clients. This method fits the idea that human experience has many sides. It includes mental health and spiritual fulfillment. Discussing spiritual concerns creates deeper bonds between the counselor and client. Then, the results of therapy are more meaningful
III. Understanding the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit
Identifying the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit is important in Christian counseling. It creates a base for emotional and spiritual growth. These fruits include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, faith, modesty, chastity and self-control. They offer insight into ethical behavior between people. This behavior is needed to build healthy relationships. These good habits encourage personal growth. They also guide decisions about actions and contact with others. We see this in food production. In that industry, sustainability and moral rules are most important. Individuals try to grow these fruits. They go through a change that fits Catholic social thought. They think about human nature and the value of community links. This happens in a world shaped by technology like AI. This connection shapes the counselor’s method and the client’s healing. It supports total well-being based on spiritual values.(Varzakas T et al., 2024). As individuals seek to cultivate these fruits, they engage in a transformative process that aligns with Catholic social thought, reflecting on the nature of personhood and the significance of community connections in a world increasingly influenced by technological advancements like AI (Group AR of the Centre for Culture D, 2023). This alignment influences both the counselors approach and the client’s healing journey, promoting holistic well-being grounded in spiritual values.
Christian counseling views the twelve fruits of the Holy Spirit as vital virtues. These virtues guide people toward spiritual growth and moral living. Each fruit has qualities that help relationships and community bonds. The fruits are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, faith, modesty, chastity and self-control. Love is the foundation of Christian teachings. It allows counselors to connect deeply with others and show Christ-like compassion. Joy and peace create inner satisfaction. This supports emotional strength during life’s challenges. These fruits also improve the group’s well-being. Kindness and goodness inspire acts of service. This strengthens community ties. Counselors teach these virtues. Clients then live out these key Christian principles every day. This improves spiritual life for the individual and the community.(Therik T, 2022)(Froese P et al., 2021).
Exploring the fruits of the Holy Spirit begins with Biblical references. These texts offer theological foundations and practical guides for Christian counseling. Galatians 5:22-23 stands at the center of this idea. Paul lists the fruits as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, faith, modesty, chastity and self-control. Each fruit reflects Christ’s character. They show how believers must show these qualities in their relationships. The principle of Honor Dei also appears in John 14:21. It highlights the need to obey God’s commandments. This obedience builds an environment that helps these fruits grow in the Church community. Research on ecclesiastical learning details this growth process. It is vital for increasing the spiritual maturity of congregants. It also guides counselors to encourage these divine attributes in therapeutic settings.(Harianto H et al., 2023)(Heidi A Campbell, 2020).
In Christian counseling, the Holy Spirit plays a deep and changing role in growing the twelve fruits. The Spirit acts as a guide. It helps individuals show traits like love, joy, and peace in their daily lives. The Holy Spirit builds a stronger bond with God. This help allows believers to beat personal struggles. It brings their actions in line with the values of a fruit-bearing life. This divine influence is needed to grow virtues. These virtues do more than improve personal faith. They also build healthy relationships in communities. Christian counselors help with healing and growth. They often ask individuals to be open to the Spirit’s work. This guides them toward an ethical and caring life. Growing these fruits is not just a personal task. It is a shared step toward a kind society. This reflects the heart of Christian teachings.(Varzakas T et al., 2024)(Group AR of the Centre for Culture D, 2023).
III. The Role of Christian Counseling in Personal Development
Understanding the role of Christian counseling involves more than simple guidance. It includes spiritual growth shaped by the counselors’ alignment with the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit. Christian counselors serve as channels for God’s grace. They embody love, joy, peace, and other virtues that support emotional and spiritual health. This therapeutic approach addresses individual psychological issues, and it uses faith principles to build a deeper relationship with God. People in this process are encouraged to develop character traits reflecting the values of honor Dei. These qualities are necessary for personal and community growth within the church (). Recent studies also link mindfulness with Christian teachings to highlight the value of complete well-being. This connection shows how counseling relieves psychological distress and improves spiritual health in a collective way (). Clients see personal changes through this combined approach. This development supports their faith.(Harianto H et al., 2023)). Moreover, the intersection of mindfulness and Christian teachings, as highlighted in recent studies, underscores the importance of holistic well-being, further emphasizing the potential of counseling to alleviate psychological distress and enhance spiritual health in a collective manner ((Oman D, 2023)). Through this integrated approach, clients experience transformative personal development that supports their faith journey.
Christian Counselors can help cultivate these gifts to help the client or spiritual child deal with the struggles of daily life.
Christian counseling is a key path for spiritual growth. It connects personal health with Christ’s teachings and the power of the Holy Spirit. This method creates a space where clients explore faith. They confront personal challenges. They build habits that match the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit. Discussions focus on scripture and guided reflection. Individuals learn more about their spiritual progress. They develop love, peace, and kindness in daily life. The process stresses ethical decisions and group support. This reflects the link between personal faith and community health. Modern health writings discuss similar complete views of health. Ethical food production is important for total health. Mixing spiritual practices in counseling works the same way. It invites clients to accept their faith fully.(Varzakas T et al., 2024)(Oman D, 2023).
Christian counseling uses various techniques to nurture the Twelve Fruits of the Holy Spirit. These methods encourage personal and spiritual growth. One common method integrates mindfulness practices. These exercises ask individuals to reflect on their thoughts and behaviors. They do so in a compassionate and non-judgmental way. This reflection builds virtues like patience and kindness. It raises awareness of how one’s actions affect others. Counselors also use scriptural teachings and therapeutic dialogue. This combination helps clients internalize biblical principles linked to the Fruits. Learning these teachings supports positive behavioral changes. These changes match the values of love and self-control. Group counseling sessions strengthen interpersonal connections. They build a community that highlights the joy and peace of living by these spiritual fruits.(Group AR of the Centre for Culture D, 2023)(Oman D, 2023).
Case studies illustrate successful results in Christian counseling. Adding spiritual principles improves therapy. For example, one client with anxiety improved after using practices aligned with the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit. The counselor focused on love, joy, and peace during sessions. This created a healing space that supported the client. The counselor also applied mindfulness techniques, as discussed in [extractedKnowledgeX]. These methods added to the approach and built resilience and self-awareness. Positive psychology principles in [extractedKnowledgeX] suggest that focusing on strengths and spirituality helps. This focus can lead to deep personal change. These findings prove that faith-based elements are necessary for total healing. They confirm the value of Christian counseling today.(Oman D, 2023), further complemented the counseling approach, promoting resilience and self-awareness. Moreover, the principles of positive psychology highlighted in (BAYSAL M, 2022) suggest that emphasizing an individual’s strengths and spiritual dimensions can lead to profound transformation. These findings underscore the necessity of incorporating faith-based elements in therapeutic processes to achieve holistic healing, thereby affirming the relevance of Christian counseling in contemporary practice.
Incorporating the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit into counseling practices creates a framework that supports spiritual growth and emotional well-being in clients. These fruits include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, faith, modesty, chastity and self-control. They serve as guiding principles for counselor conduct and as therapeutic goals for clients. Each fruit represents a valuable attribute that clients build through intentional counseling. For instance, promoting patience helps clients develop healthier coping mechanisms during hard life transitions, and building kindness improves interpersonal relationships. The field is expanding beyond traditional religious perspectives. Counselors now recognize the importance of intercultural and interreligious care to engage diverse beliefs effectively. The application of these fruits aligns with modern methods in diverse contexts to support complete healing for clients.(Hans‐Angel F, 2024)(Daniel S Schipani, 2023).
Adding the fruits of the Holy Spirit to counseling sessions requires practical strategies to create a full therapeutic experience. Counselors can encourage clients to reflect on personal experiences with love, joy, peace, and other fruits. This builds an environment for self-exploration and growth. This method fits the principles of positive psychology. These principles stress the importance of nurturing individual strengths and virtues. Focusing on positive attributes can cause major personal change. Using activities like gratitude journaling helps clients recognize and grow these spiritual attributes in their daily lives. Group sessions improve this experience by promoting community and shared accountability. These elements are needed to live out the fruits of the Spirit. Counselors provide a safe space for exploration and welcome these virtues. They support clients in their spiritual and emotional progress.(BAYSAL M, 2022). Additionally, utilizing activities such as gratitude journaling can help clients recognize and cultivate these spiritual attributes in their daily lives. Group sessions can further enhance this experience by promoting community and shared accountability, which are essential for embodying the fruits of the Spirit. By providing a safe space for exploration and embracing these virtues, counselors can effectively support clients in their spiritual and emotional journeys (Mansor NH et al., 2022).
Integrating the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit into Christian counseling shapes client relationships. It promotes deeper emotional and spiritual connections. Each fruit, such as love, joy, and kindness, guides counselors to show behaviors that build trust and empathy. Counselors live out these virtues to create a space for open dialogue. This openness is necessary for progress in therapy. The fruits also encourage counselors to practice mindfulness. This fits public health initiatives that prioritize mental well-being through relationships and emotional support. For example, the virtues of patience and faithfulness are important as clients face the challenges of life after COVID-19. These fruits enrich the counselor’s work and improve the therapeutic bond. Clients then experience healing within a compassionate relationship.(Oman D, 2023). For instance, in navigating the complexities of post-COVID-19 life, the virtues of patience and faithfulness become even more critical as clients face unprecedented challenges (Kotz Mé et al., 2023). Thus, the fruits not only enrich the counselors practice but also significantly enhance the therapeutic alliance, enabling clients to experience transformative healing within a compassionate relational context.
In Christian counseling, applying spiritual principles ethically is key for client understanding and growth. Mixing faith and psychology requires awareness of how beliefs affect the counseling bond and results. Counselors must use the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit, such as love, kindness, and patience. They must also respect the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of their clients. This work requires practitioners to build an ethical plan that includes respect for individual autonomy and cultural sensitivity. Debates about technology and ethics, like those regarding artificial intelligence, are increasing. Professionals must watch how these tools affect relationships in counseling. Counselors focus on using spiritual principles ethically. This helps create spaces that support complete healing and client strength.(Varzakas T et al., 2024)(Group AR of the Centre for Culture D, 2023).
IV. Conclusion
We finish our look at Christian counseling and the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit. These spiritual principles improve therapy. Counselors show traits like love, joy, peace, and patience. This creates a caring space for clients. It also helps with spiritual growth and healing. Counselors encourage individuals to grow these fruits. This guides clients to understand personal challenges and relationships. Recent writings suggest using mindfulness in a Christian context. This practice connects spiritual and psychological health. So, using mindfulness deepens the client’s experience of these spiritual fruits. Public health discussions show that well-being relies on connections. We must see the link between mental, emotional, and spiritual parts in counseling.(Oman D, 2023)(Therik T, 2022).
Reception of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification
Studying Christian counseling alongside the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit reveals the deep effect these traits have on individual and community health. Love, joy, peace, and patience serve as a base. They help clients handle life problems and build strength. Kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are also important. They guide ethical choices and relationships during therapy. These qualities improve personal growth and support peace in society. This mirrors the connection seen in faith and public health systems. Research notes that mindfulness and Christian rules support complete care for mental and emotional health. Treatments must consider cultural and spiritual backgrounds to help society . This combination points to the unused potential for mixing spiritual and mental health in counseling offices ..(Oman D, 2023). Ultimately, this synthesis underscores the unfulfilled potential for integrating both spiritual and psychological wellness in counseling practices (Therik T, 2022). The transformative power of the fruits in counseling
The power of the fruits of the Holy Spirit in counseling is profound. It serves as a foundation to help spiritual growth and emotional healing. Each fruit provides a unique therapeutic benefit. These include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Counselors use them to support their clients. For instance, building patience allows individuals to process their feelings and experiences with more thought. This leads to clear self-understanding. Using these fruits in counseling helps the counselor and client connect. This allows for an empathetic and compassionate therapeutic environment. The link between spiritual well-being and emotional health is clear. Both areas change one another in powerful ways. Recent talks on public health and mindfulness show this. A chance exists to study these connections more to help total wellness in communities.(Oman D, 2023)(Heidi A Campbell, 2020).
The mental health field changes constantly, and the future of Christian counseling is promising yet complex. Practitioners increasingly combine faith principles with modern therapy. These methods focus on emotional resilience and wellbeing. They connect specifically to the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit. This combination offers a comprehensive view of human behavior. It builds a counseling relationship that treats psychological issues. The process also supports spiritual growth. People pay renewed attention to ethics in mental health. Christian counselors can promote compassion, integrity, and service in their communities. Their work matches ethical standards in humanitarian and spiritual settings . Mindfulness practices in counseling also improve emotional health through spirituality. This subject requires more study and action ..(Varzakas T et al., 2024). Moreover, the potential of mindfulness practices within counseling aligns with the call to enhance emotional health through spiritual dimensions, highlighting areas ripe for further exploration and action (Oman D, 2023).
Humanity since the fall entered into a temporal reality of sorrow and fear. The moment Adam chose himself over God, the weight of original sin wiped away humanity’s freedom from suffering and more importantly humanity’s lost union with God. With suffering came affliction, and with lost union with God came desolation. Adam’s free gifts of great intelligence, freedom of the passions, intimacy with God and freedom from suffering were stripped from him as he and Eve were expelled from Eden. The words of God echoed that Adam would have to toil and work, while Eve would experience the pains of life.
Spiritual life can have a cycle of consolations and desolations. Desolations and afflictions can test one’s faith. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling and also Spiritual Direction programs
God, however, did not abandon His creation and promised a redeemer. The Second Person of the Blessed Trinity would pour Himself into union with the humanity of Jesus Christ to become one person, both God and man, with the purpose of restoring union with God and offering reparation for sin. Jesus Christ was sinless and untainted, a perfect high priest and victim that would offer Himself for the world on the cross. In this reality, Jesus Christ offered not only His very life, but His very existence to help humanity also learn how to live in this broken world. Even Jesus, although perfect, permitted the sufferings of this world to affect Him, as well as the desolation He felt in the garden and on the cross. Hence any study of Christian desolation and affliction views Jesus Christ as the perfect example to follow when faced with these types of pains for he bore the iniquities of man although He was just and innocent of them.
In this article, we will view the pains of desolation and affliction, discuss spiritual direction during these times, and relate to biblical figures and saints, as well as Christ Himself as examples for overcoming desolation and affliction. Please also review AIHCP’s Spiritual Direction Program as well as its Christian Counseling Program.
Defining Desolation and Affliction
Desolation is likened to a spiritual depression in many ways. Desolation makes one feel distant from God’s love. It makes one feel empty and without purpose or meaning. Adam no doubt felt this heavy weight of guilt, sadness, and lost of connection with the Divine. During desolation, the soul feels abandoned by God. The feelings of joy in prayer, or a presence can vanish during desolation. This may be due to a tragic loss, or an unfair suffering one is enduring, or an unanswered prayer that feels like a betrayal. During desolation, a soul may be angry at God or even saddened at the lack of God’s presence or perceived direction. Spiritual belief and previous held spiritual meanings are suddenly questioned, challenged and potentially lost. This can lead to intense anxiety while the person wrestles with not only the loss but their entire spiritual schema and meaning of the world.
Affliction refers to more than merely isolation from God, but also continued loss and suffering. Suffering, especially within Christianity, while not seen as good, is still nevertheless seen as opportunity to grow in faith, as well as become closer to God, but many afflicted feel betrayed by God and become angry. Suffering is not seen as a cross for merit but is seen as something to avoid at all costs and is equated to bad faith of the person. These false assumptions about God and suffering can lead to farther distance from God.
In addition, in some rare cases, spiritual affliction can rise from the demonic. Very holy saints have experienced spiritual affliction. The Book of Job points to this type of demonic activity as well. In such cases, of spiritual warfare and daily life, one must completely turn oneself to Christ, reaffirming one’s belief and denouncing the power of Satan. In some cases, special blessings may be needed for severe cases. The purpose of the enemy in these less common afflictions is to prevent closeness with God. It is a final act of fear from the enemy. In cases of some saints, God permitted it for His greater glory and victory. This article will focus more so on natural affliction and suffering.
Hence, both affliction and desolation work together to burden the soul and drive it farther from the warmth and love of God.
In Scripture, we can look at the Book of Job. In the Book of Job, Job is tested by God. Job is stripped of all his earthly prizes and still refuses to denounce God. He never once feels desolate during the afflictions and sufferings. His friends who “attempt” to console him try to understand why God has done this. What terrible punishment could this be? Yet, Job is righteous and just and is not deserving of any of the horrible events that have taken place. Job, in this sense, is a pre-figurement of Christ, a spotless victim. Like Christ, Job did no wrong, but still accepted the suffering and loss never losing sight of God or condemning God. Instead, Job places his faith in God. What the Book of Job teaches is that not all suffering is a result of one’s actions but is part of the human condition. Jesus Christ teaches humanity to offer up, like Job, one’s sufferings and not to equate suffering and affliction as punishment but as a reality of this fallen world.
Sick Faith
Many reactions to affliction, or feelings of desolation with God come poor conceptions of faith. Spiritual directors, Christian counselors, ministers, or others in care of souls need to help cultivate the right perceptions of relationship with God. Many feel faith is a contract. If one says his morning prayers, or goes to church every Sunday, gives to the poor and does good deeds, then his temporal existence should reap the benefits or karma of a good life. Others believe, if they are good servants and handmaids of the Lord, then they should have a first place slot to God’s presence and deserve His continual grace throughout their day. When these things are not present, when bad things happen, or God seems distant, the faith of contract quickly becomes weakened. They expect God to lighten the load, to be present, but when He is no longer present, they become depressed, or angry, or discontent with their contract with God. This type of sick faith expects reward and easy path for good behavior, but if we know the life of Job, the life of Christ, even the life of His mother and followers, that this life is not easy. There is no easy contract with becoming a follower of Christ. Christ set the ultimate example displaying the truth of this world through His life, actions and death.
Instead, faith must be seen as a covenant. Through covenant, whether bad or good days, or when we feel or not feel God’s warmth, or when something ends not as we wished, we know God is not punishing us, or causing us pain, instead we know, He suffers with us, walks with us, and will offer the grace needed, even if not felt, to push through to the next challenge. That is the guarantee of faith! Faith makes no promises of happiness in this world but it does promise us Christ’s love. It gives us hope that our sufferings will have value and ultimately lead us to the final destination, which is union with God in heaven. Through faith, hope and love, gifts of the Holy Spirit, we can move forward in covenant with God, embracing the good and the bad, the desolation and afflictions and find hope even on the coldest seasons of our lives.
It is important to note the power of healthy spirituality in healing. When desolation occurs, the soul is also wounded as well as its overall outlook. It is important to identity possible depression or cases of intense anxiety that can exist in individuals. If not already a licensed counselor or healthcare professional, then pastoral counselors should identify signs of deeper mental turmoil and refer the individual to the appropriate care giver. If already licensed, if depression is diagnosed, then the depression will also need addressed, as well as any other types of anxiety. Sometimes, it is not merely the soul that is sad but also the literal brain and this has consequences throughout the entire body of the person. Again, healthy spirituality is equated with good mental health, resiliency and ability to cope but when desolation occurs, unhealthy spirituality can occur which can equally hurt a person. It is important to help guide the individual to proper and healthy spiritual concepts during spiritual direction. Where the person sees God as hate, the counselor needs to emphasize God as love, all the while giving empathy and un-conditional support to the person and validating the person’s current feeling.
Roots of Desolation
Unlike Job, many individuals find it hard to praise God in the sad times of affliction. Instead, affliction for some pushes one away from God. As counselors, spiritual mentors, and advisors, one cannot dismiss the emotions of sadness. The roots and pains are real. It can be easy to say offer it up, or relate that someone deceased is in a better place, or for one to say God ways are mysterious and one must have faith! Individuals who say these things do not understand the power of loss and pain.
Desolation while humbling can lead us back to God even stronger
Many suffering desolation have faced severe trauma throughout life. Many may have experienced extreme losses, or faced unheralded trauma of abuse, rape or neglect. Others may be broken through depression and anxiety. Many have faced these issues throughout their life and have found no comfort or love from another person. These individuals feel alone and abandoned. Their sense of meaning has been destroyed through the afflictions of life. In this, they find desolation from God. They may even deny His existence. How could a good God permit evil is the classical question. Of course, the response is either God is not all good or He is not all powerful, for why would God permit evil if He is good, or allow it if He is all powerful. These answers distract the clear reality of the broken world for God is both all good and all powerful, but evil, suffering and sin are results of free will and a consequence of Lucifer’s rebellion and Adam’s disobedience.
Desolation can lead one far away from God. When the love of God is no longer felt after a loss, a person can turn away. Psychologically , the person’s meaning has been totally eradicated. This is especially true of individuals who experience a traumatic event for the first time. Anyone of any faith, can lose the secure feeling they once possessed, when security and protection is stripped from them. Previous notions of a loving God, or safe world are weakened and challenged as the person attempts to incorporate the horrible affliction. This in turn can lead to new ways of thinking about the world and one’s relationship with God. One may feel betrayed or abandoned by God, or reject His existence due to the processing of the event. These feelings can be natural, for even, Christ in His utter humanity, screamed out “My God, why have you forsaken Me”.
Like Christ on the cross, many religious and spiritual individuals feel this forsaken feeling. It is not so much that they are denying God in their life, or His presence, but they feel alone in their agony and loss. Christ, as both God and man, did not believe God had left Him, but in the utter pain of human torment and loss, He experienced the isolation and loneliness we can all feel when burdened under great distress. Many individuals feel periods of drought within their prayer life. St Teresa of Avilla in her classic, “The Interior Castle” speaks of these dry spiritual moments which she also classifies as desolation. In these moments, the warmth of God’s presence is not as intense or present in the prayer life. One may feel alone in struggles and unheard in prayer. One may not feel the tingles of emotion and the presence of the Holy Spirit. One may even doubt why they even pray or believe what one believes. In this aridity of spiritual life, St Teresa of Avila tells her us to continue to be strong. She emphasizes that these feelings are fleeting and should never be the end purpose or desire of prayer with God. She emphasizes that the worship and adoration due to God is alone sufficient and what or how we feel from it is secondary. Justice demands the creature to worship the Creator for justice alone. The gifts of warmth, closeness, and union are gifts the Creator bestows at His will. Of course, God wishes to embrace us, but many times, our own inclinations and attractions to this world bury our spiritual feet in the mire and muck of the world. It dulls our spiritual senses. Our desires and needs of this world keep us anchored here instead of feeling the Divine. Purging the soul of these distractions is the purpose of this desolation. To teach us how to better hear God. God can use desolation, like in Job, to bring us more perfectly closer to Him.
Spiritual Direction and Counseling the Desolated
Whether a person is experiencing spiritual aridity or desolated and afflicted through pain, loss and trauma, a counselor needs to recognize the pain the person is experiencing via affliction and desolation. It is OK to express emotion towards God. It is OK, as a child of God, to express displeasure. It is OK to ask God to spare oneself from suffering. Counselors need to understand that when working through spiritual aridity or if a person is experiencing grief, that a healing involves expressing emotion. In counseling, emotion needs to be expressed and understood. Counselors can help individuals understand why they feel rejected or abandoned by God. When emotions are expressed, they can be analyzed and understood. When emotions are expressed, then negative feelings that are not on par with reality can be weeded out and one can again begin to access relationship with God. Loss and meanings surrounded that loss can again be reframed and restructured to fit within the paradigm of one’s spiritual belief. In meaning making, a spiritual belief or world view that is challenged goes through a rigorous trial of emotional and cognitive questioning. The belief is re-evaluated with the loss and then can be temporarily dismissed, totally rejected, or reconfigured within the schema of the loss. Spiritual direction looks to help the person throughout the emotion to repair the religious schema and meaning and make sense of the loss within the faith of the person. The desolation through cognitive reframing can reignite the person’s faith. Does this mean the person is not changed or still sad? No, the person will understand their faith in a new light-even a stronger light, but also carry the emotion and loss but be free from the torturous emotions of abandonment of lack of meaning. Instead, sad or angry, the person will process the loss within the framework of a loving God, who has not abandoned the person but remains side by side. While biblical based and Christocentric, counselors will help individuals heal spiritually through a variety of Cognitive Behavioral strategies that help build new meanings to the loss. The new meanings will unite the loss with faith in a way that permits the faith and meaning to continue despite the challenge the loss may have presented to one’s faith. Tying one’s faith to a God, who became human, and suffered and was buried but offers hope through His resurrection is a strong paradigm. Christianity offers hope past suffering through the Resurrection. The Resurrection not as only as an act of faith, but as a powerful meaning construct can help spiritual people cope and find resilience after loss and desolation.
Spiritual directors, counselors, pastors, confessors can utilize empathy and meaning making to help individuals experiencing desolation and affliction to find their faith again
In addition to giving meaning and hope to those desolated and afflicted, it is important in spiritual direction to sojourn with the griever and hopeless. Again, we have emphasized the importance of embracing emotion and feeling it as a modality to healing. However, in ministry, we must also sojourn with the desolated. In spiritual direction, we many times wish to give all the answers to help a person find a closer union with God, but sometimes, we also need to act as counselors and utilize the therapeutic relationship which highlights the power of empathy. Christ was the most empathetic. He saw the pain of sinners. He never condoned their sins but He understood why they sinned. He saw their brokenness and walked with them, leading them to new faith. Empathetic listening involves having un-conditional positive regard for ones spiritual child. This term coined by Carl Rogers pushes the counselor not to always have the answer but to help the person find the answer through gentle guidance. When someone feels unconditional positive regard, the person then does feels complete love for their personhood regardless of actions or progress. A good counselor can challenge and guide a person to good changes by showing this regard to a broken person. By feeling and understanding the pain of the person and not merely just showing sympathy, empathy can show a broken person that he or she is loved regardless of how he or she feels or is acting. This brings one to reflect on one’s own self and eventually want to be better without being told or commanded. Christ’s gaze did not command but it created within the person a desire to change within oneself. As spiritual directors, Christian Counselors or pastors, we do say what is or right, but we are patient as well, like Christ. Utilizing empathy, unconditional positive regard and a unique genuine care for the person can bring the best out of a person in regards to true change and conversion.
Those in desolation sometimes do not need a lecture but merely need a listening ear that is willing to sojourn and suffer with him or her through the process of rediscovering the warmth and voice of God. It is also important during this times of temptation, despair, aridity and fear to remain patient and maintain faith in Christ. Continue to feed one’s soul with good works, readings, prayers as well as reading of Scripture and meditating on its mysteries. Satan can sometimes play on the inner workings of desolation to turn the soul against God to give up. Christian Counselors and Spiritual directors need to encourage their spiritual children to continue to exercise their spiritual life even if it feels as if nothing is occurring. St Ignatius Loyola points out that our lives will always be filled with desolations and consolations. These natural spiritual cycles are OK to experience and are sometimes necessary in spiritual growth but we cannot allow our deep emotions and intense pains to distract us from the truth of Christ.
Why Won’t God Hear Me?
Those facing desolation sometimes have not experienced a particular trauma, but may be experiencing spiritual aridity. As mentioned before, St Teresa of Avila discussed in detail the pain of spiritual desolation but also the good that come from it. She pointed out that sometimes the distance of God can humble a person. It teaches one that when God’s voice is again felt and experienced, we truly realize how much we need Him. We cannot achieve salvation or gain merit without the power of the Holy Spirit and His presence in our lives. This humbling is a gentle reminder that all virtue and grace comes from God and not our own vain progresses in spiritual life. She also pointed out that it teaches the soul that union with God is a gift and not something to be earned. When God graces us with the inner warm feelings, or for mystics, a deeper intimacy or spiritual presence, this is a gift based not on one’s accomplishments but a presence made known as a Divine taste of heaven. Worshippers out of love do not seek God for this sensation but because out of love, obedience and justice, God is owed our worship. When desolation occurs, it reminds one to be humble of this great gift and also reminds one of the sinful nature we all possess. Many times desolation can be a tool for better reflection. When we cannot hear God, it may very well be due to our sinful lives and distractions. Desolation can drive us to better ourselves, purify and purge ourselves of sin, vice and secular distraction. We can then better attune our spiritual senses to God void of distraction.
Spiritual guidance can help individuals why they feel God does not hear them and help them transform their daily actions and sufferings into true meaningful events.
In regards to weathering the storm of suffering and carrying our cross, many times it seems God is not hearing our pain. If it is a sudden loss, or series of mishaps, or even painful ailment, many times it seems despite all prayers, God does not answer or hear us. Spiritual directors and Christian counselors can help individuals reframe their expectations with the mercy of God. Again, the concept of covenant over contract is key. In covenant, we realize God hears our prayers, but He also knows what is best. This does not mean He wants us to suffer, for He Himself suffered as well. However, sometimes our sufferings have reason and merit. Reframing cognitively the purpose of suffering as merely a secular thing to avoid but instead as a spiritual opportunity to tie to Christ can have huge psychological advantages for healing and resiliency during suffering. Hence what is good for us spiritually can also help us mentally and physically by finding meaning in the suffering itself. By offering our sufferings to Christ, as He did in the garden to the Father, our sufferings become something bigger than just us, but play a role in the entire salvation process. We can offer up our suffering by uniting them with Christ who can purify them as our High Priest and offer them for a greater cause. In this way suffering is transformed. As Christ transformed suffering and death to glory and resurrection, we too can elevate our sufferings to have meaning. Of course, within spiritual direction and counseling, we can still pray for this cup to pass, and we can lament our suffering and wish it to lessen, but we also understand that during this time, God is giving opportunity to become closer and spiritually stronger and transform. So sufferings will come regardless in this fallen world, why not unite them with Christ and give them meaning?
St Theresa the Little Flower teaches us the most about suffering. While many of us during Lent impose upon ourselves penance, the greatest penance is the type given from authority. It is when we do not choose, but it is given and accepted that has the most merit before Christ. St Theresa offered her daily frustrations and daily duties to Christ. Instead of speaking out, or complaining, she did her minimalist duties. She became extraordinary in the ordinary. Hence, even the simplest suffering, or daily duty can have great value when it is given to Christ who then transforms it into something beyond our wildest dreams.
So, whether during turmoil, loss, sense of abandonment, searching for direction, or experiencing loss and trauma, we must realize the feelings of desolation and affliction can have purpose, but most importantly that they are not punishments from God. God is always with us whether we sense His presence or not. Like the foot prints in the sand motif, it is God who is carrying us, even when we feel we are the only one walking.
Conclusion
In spiritual direction we need to understand desolation and affliction as real pains within spiritual life. The abandonment and disconnection is real and the emotions must be validated. It is critical to help people again find meaning in their faith and connection to the sufferings of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the ultimate meaning making symbol in history. He gives meaning to all loss by His resurrection, By death, He conquered death and to those in the graves He granted life. This beautiful thought expressed during Easter gives meaning to all suffering on earth. When meaning is restored, then desolation and affliction can become conquered. Spiritual Directors must however not only be good teachers regarding these facts but also must be good counselors in helping others through empathy and unconditional positive regard. Christ did not merely convert and save those in desolation through commands, but by walking with them, loving them and leading them to the truth through their own unique decision to change.
Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling and also Spiritual Direction programs
Spiritual directors and counselors and pastors will constantly find individuals in pain and sometimes that pain and suffering leads to desolation and feelings of abandonment. It is important to help guide souls through the dark days and help the desolate again find connection with Christ.
False prophets and mystics have misled faithful for centuries. Christian counselors, mentors and pastors can help identify their teachings and manipulations. This video takes a closer look at characteristics of a false prophet
Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Program by clicking here
The devil rarely gets someone on his first attempt or makes a person a monster in one day but it is over a period of time. Spiritual erosion and subtle ways breaks down a good person over time. This video looks at the subtle ways our spiritual defenses are gradually weakened.
Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification. Qualified professionals can apply within the scope of their practice to better help individuals in counseling from a Christian perspective in both pastoral as well in some cases, clinical settings.
Houses and properties can become haunted. Christian theology accepts this reality and has ways to help individuals who are dealing with ghosts or in worst case scenarios, demonic influences. This video takes a closer look at hauntings, how to remove them and how to avoid them. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. Please click here
