FRIDAY MAY 20, 2022.

TOPIC: BASIC COUNSELLING SKILLS: USE OF SCRIPTURE AND PRAYER.

Scripture References: Hebrew 4:12-13, James 5:13-15.

The Bible reveals God’s absolute or ultimate desires and plans for men of all races and cultures. Through the Bible, we see people, circumstances and life correctly. It exposes the sins of humanity and leads them to self-realization and restoration. Counsellors are entreated therefore to lead counselees to understand and adopt biblical solutions and prayer to solving life’s challenges.

The writer of the book of Hebrews said “the word of God is quick, powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of souls and spirits” (Heb. 4:12). Would be Counsellors are encouraged never to neglect the Scriptures during counselling; through reading, memorizing and meditating upon it with their clients. Prayer is vitally important in the life of the client or counselee. James admonished us “Is anyone among you suffering (emotionally, physically and spiritually?), let them pray” (James 5:13).

Often, when one is going through pains, it can be difficult to pray. Prayer is most at times the last resort for such people. However, counsellors must encourage their counselees to pray in whatever situation they find themselves. Practically begin and end each meeting with prayer, give daily prayer topics as homework to the counselee, be specific, how you want them to pray (e.g., 20mins each day, on their knees, praying in the Holy Ghost, praying aloud or praying silently where applicable etc.), and encourage them to do their daily devotions by using devotional guides such us Streams of Living Waters hard or soft copy. It is believed that when counsellors develop using these skills, they become very successful to helping their clients because the Bible says “come unto me all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11: 28).

Prayer Guide: Please Jesus, increase my faith in your word and in

prayers.

MEMORY VERSE FOR THIS WEEK:

Proverbs 11: 14 (NKJV) – “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”