(Proverbs 15:22)

Introduction: God uses others to speak into your life. Many times He uses counselors to come along beside of you during difficult times and seasons of life. But you must proceed with caution in choosing those who instruct you.

(Proverbs 12:26) (Proverbs 13:1) (Proverbs 13:10) (Proverbs 13:20)

Six “Musts” For Good Christian Counseling: 

1. Offers Hope   (Romans 15:4)

2. Corrects Wrong & Deceptive Beliefs  (2 Corinthians 10:4-6)

3. Presents and Teaches a Biblical Worldview (includes topics such as: who Christ is, who we are in Christ, and the effects of sin and grace)

4. Offers Biblical Solutions

5. Emphasizes the Power of Prayer

6. Encourages Accountability

Two Reasons People Listen To Ungodly Counsel:

1. They do not have enough spiritual discernment  (Ephesians 4:14-15a)

2. They want someone to tell them what they want to hear (2 Timothy 4:3-4)

Twelve Ways You Can Detect Ungodly Counsel:

1. Mentions little or nothing of the Bible, God, Jesus Christ, or Holy Spirit

2. Mentions little or nothing of prayer

3. Gives subtle defense of unscriptural actions

4. Gives direct violations of Scripture

5. Criticizes the church or spiritual leaders

6. Tells you what you want to hear

7. Leads to dependence on drugs

8. Attempts to control you (dependence)

9. Leads you to believe you are a poor victim

10. Leads you to escape responsibility

11. Leads you to personal gain at someone’s expense

12. Leads an ungodly lifestyle

The Goal of Biblical Counseling:  (Colossians 1:28)  (James 1:5)

Conclusion: Be careful who you listen to—the life God intends for you to have may depend on it.    (Jeremiah 29:11)