Where Do Christians Find Help With Emotional And Relational Issues?

 For years I played “emotional hide and seek.” I had a lot of hidden hurts. People put “spiritual bandages” on them, but the bleeding was still there. The saying, “I am fine,” when people ask how are you doing, has become much too common. There are probably people sitting in our church congregations with unknown hurts, and with some people that we least suspect. So, how do Christians deal with emotional and relational issues?

I listen to a radio program by Christian counselors that deal with common issues among Christians. “New Life Live”is a very popular listener call-in program that attracted me because of my past, and because of the need among Christians. I asked questions of Becky Brown, a licensed professional clinical counselor and the  president of New Life Ministries. She is also co-producer and writer for Life Recovery Today TV, and the author of several books on bipolar disorder, fear, anxiety, and anger. I have learned a lot just from listening to the radio broadcasts. I asked her five questions and here are her responses:

1. Can you list the top five emotional and relational problems of Christians? 

Anxiety, depression, infidelity, estrangement, and relational conflict.

2. What advice would you give to a newly married Christian couple?

Godly Council, with an understanding of personal histories, recognizing how their past influences the present, and committing to God and one another, creating a strong foundation for marriage. When couples struggle entire families are impacted. Help can change the course of the family’s future.

3. Do you think that some religious teaching has contributed to emotional and relational issues?

Just forgive and forget, don’t tell anyone. Some believers have been taught that seeking counseling reflects a lack of faith, or that emotional struggles are solely the result of spiritual warfare or unrepented sin. While spiritual factors can certainly play a role, these explanations do not address every situation. When taken out of balance, such teachings can discourage people from seeking professional counseling that could provide essential help and healing. These messages can be harmful, delaying healing, and preventing the recovery process from beginning, and to move from denial to determination.

4. What are some Bible verses used in counseling? 

Philippians 4:13 is a powerful truth, but it does not mean we are called to face pain in isolation, nor does it suggest that growth requires no action or support. Another verse is Romans 12:2. This speaks to the core of understanding the power of God to help in life’s struggles and direction for life. To examine motives, behavior, and unhealed wounds with God‘s help, transforms life.

5. What are the various ministries and services you provide?

We have recovery groups and a national network of counselors, as well as a variety of workshops on various subjects, like a seminar for men dealing with pornography addiction, and one on marriage.

For more information and details about this ministry click on newlife.com. It will tell you a radio station in your area that you can listen to and find the help you need, or to help a friend or family member who is struggling with these issues.