The aspect of this article that resounds with me the most is simply the need for everyone within the body of Christ not only to be counseled, but also to counsel. The conclusion of this article summarizes it correctly: “At any one time, however, any one of us fits in the shoes of any of these types” (13). If this is true (and I believe it is) then there are times when I need to step into and speak into a brother’s or sister’s situation and seek to love him/her in the best way possible. On the flip side, there are also many times and/or particular areas in my life where I am not strong and I need a stronger brother or sister to speak into my life. The biggest challenge, I think, is not only to differentiate these various situations, but to be humble enough to reach out to others who need exhortation, encouragement and care, and be humble enough to accept the same from others when need be.
As someone who will counsel, therefore, whether in a professional capacity or not, the challenge will lie in getting to know and understand the person with whom I am dealing. In order to minister to him/her effectively, I need to rightly understand the situation, and have the wisdom to determine how to love that person according to his/her need. I also must be willing to give my time and resources to stick with the person despite their reaction to ministry, and be willing to adapt to the changes of the person’s situation.
As someone who needs counsel I must realize that God is at work in my life through others. Others have been given the gift to be able to speak into my life in situations where I need instruction, care, and encouragement. God wants to conform me into the image of His Son (wonder of wonders!) and I ought not to hinder the work of the Spirit as He does so.
In each case, I must seek by the illumination of the Word and Spirit to know who I am- to see where I need change, and to recognize also where I have experienced change so that I can reach out to my brothers and sisters in Christ in a redemptive way.
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