Reading Response 1: The Reluctant Counselor: How God Is Shifting My Perspective

We cannot hide the fact that Biblical counseling is an interesting and hot topic over the years. Until now, there have been many discussions about this. In my three-year stay in PTSCAS, we had numerous seminars with regards to counseling. Also recently, in a conference that I attended, there was a part of the seminar focused on this subject. However, despite it being all around me, I am not really into it. As much as possible, I try not to think too deeply about the things around me, but I believe that God is transforming my mindset about this matter. This semester, I am taking the subject Introduction to Biblical Counseling, something that I cannot avoid.

As a starting point, while reading Counseling: How to Counsel Biblically by John MacArthur, I realized that counseling is an integral part of Christianity. In reality, people practice counseling in one way or another, often without even realizing it. As a follower of Christ, this is not something I can avoid; rather, I must learn to embrace it as part of my growth in faith. When the book stated that counseling, when it skillfully employs and applies God’s Word, is a necessary duty in Christian life and fellowship, (p.3) I felt gently corrected as someone who often avoids thinking deeply and getting too much involved.

Personally, I usually choose to just listen whenever someone opens up to me about their situations. And when the time comes that they ask me what they should do, it is hard for me to share my thoughts considering what they may feel afterwards. I do not remember where I read or heard this thought which says, “There are only a few people who are genuinely seeking advice. Most of the time, people have already made up their minds and are only looking for someone to support their decisions, often disguising it as seeking advice.” I find reality in this statement because of personal experience. And this refrains me from giving my two cents.

However, as part of the body of Christ, I cannot avoid it. This has always been part of the fellowship and growth of the Christian life, and biblical counseling is much deeper than what I previously understood as simply giving advice. Biblical counseling goes beyond the surface level; it seeks to identify the root cause of the problem and differs from what psychology often identifies as the root issue.

In conclusion, this realization has challenged me to rethink my reluctance toward counseling and to see it not as an optional task but as a biblical responsibility rooted in love for others. While I may still feel hesitant, I am beginning to understand that biblical counseling is not merely about offering opinions or solutions, but about faithfully applying God’s Word with wisdom, compassion, and humility. As I continue this course, I hope to grow in discernment and courage, trusting that God will use even my limitations to minister to others for their spiritual growth and His glory.

Subject: Introduction to Biblical Counseling
Published by: Baloran, Ma. Rose Ann S., ABTh - 3rd Year