Pastoral Counselling – can we do it? 

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

I’ve been sharing some videos on YouTube recently to help you think through approaches to pastoral counselling. However, I’m still aware that for some, there will be a question about whether or not we should be even attempting this kind of thing In fact, there are, I think two risks.  On the one hand, there… Continue reading Pastoral Counselling – can we do it? 

Pastoral Counselling: Take them to God’s Word

Photo by John-Mark Smith on Pexels.com

The unique thing that Christians have to offer in pastoral counselling is not our experience or wisdom, nor is it the latest methodology or theories in psychology and therapy.  I don’t want to downplay those things.  We have much to learn from what we may refer to as God’s common grace and general revelation. However,… Continue reading Pastoral Counselling: Take them to God’s Word

Is depression an emotional state that makes people interpret the events in their lives in a negative way?

Photo by Charles on Pexels.com

A quote in the Daily Telegraph says ““Depression is an emotional state that makes people interpret the events in their lives in a negative way,” explains Mabel Martinelli, the director of the Cambridge Centre for Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy. “It’s only by helping someone to find some space from that feeling that they are able… Continue reading Is depression an emotional state that makes people interpret the events in their lives in a negative way?

Discipleship, pastoral care and counselling

If you are involved in discipling others then there will be times when you are asked to counsel someone. This might be about helping them to work through a particular issue or decision -whether to go for a job or it could be because they are facing specific circumstances such as marital problems, debt or… Continue reading Discipleship, pastoral care and counselling

Depression, spiritual warfare and calling the elders to pray

Mark Pickett has written this helpful review of “The pastor with a thorn in his side.”  In his review, Mark picks up on a number of things that he would have liked further analysis and discussion of in the book.  I agree with Mark that these are crucial areas that we need some further discussion… Continue reading Depression, spiritual warfare and calling the elders to pray

The role of Scripture in treating mental health issues

I have read reports recently from people experiencing “Christian counselling” for mental health issues where this amounted to giving them a few bible verses to read and memorise.  So, I thought I would outline a few reflections around this. The first thing to say is that this is sometimes described as Biblical Counselling.  However, this… Continue reading The role of Scripture in treating mental health issues

Messy Church in a Messy World

This morning I’m resharing the first ever article from the original faithroots blog. It helps explain some of the assumptions behind what I write. It is also the first chapter in “How do you know?” which is available from the publications page. A dirty word for a messy world This blog is for people living… Continue reading Messy Church in a Messy World