Tedd Tripp

Posted on by Greg E. Gifford

Tedd Tripp

by Matthew Jones

 

  1. Known for
    1. President of Shepherding the Heart Ministries (shepherdingtheheart.org)
    2. Books on children and parenting centered on heart change, juxtapose behavior change by itself
    3. Pastor at Grace Fellowship Church in Hazleton, Pennsylvania since June 1983 – 2012 [9].

II. Biography

A. Early life

    1. Tripp was born in in 1946[2] in Toledo, Ohio.[10]

B.  Education

    1. Bachelor of Arts in history from Geneva College [2]
    2. Master of Divinity from Philadelphia Theological Seminary [2]
    3. Doctor of Ministry from Westminster Theological Seminary [2]

C. Significant life events that impacted person

    1. Prior to seminary, Tedd worked in industry and building trades [10]
    2. Tedd married Margy in 1968 [9]
    3. Tedd and Margy have three Children born in 1969, 1972, and 1973. [10]
    4. Tedd and his wife, Margy, founded Immanuel Christian School in 1979. Tedd served as a teacher and principal for four years and continues to serve on the school’s board.[10]

III. Theological views

A. Tedd Tripp holds to the view that people were created as worshippers. Humans were created to worship (Romans 1:18-25), either God or something else. Further, he would affirm people are born into sin and therefor have hearts that creates “idols” in place of God-. Therefore, exchanging proper worship of God for created things. Behavior- that is- outward and seen, is an outflow of one’s inward worship.

B. As noted above, Tedd Tripp formerly pastored at Grace Fellowship Church. This church is affiliated with the Reformed Baptist Network [5]

IV. Works/Publications

A. Books:

    1. Shepherding a Child’s Heart
    2. Instructing a Child’s Heart
    3. Hints for Parents

B. Articles

    1. “Communicate with Teens”, written July 13, 2010 [11]

C. Interviews

    1. Tedd was interviewed by Tony Reinke for a consecutive week on the, The Ask Pastor John Podcast (Desiringgod.org), on the following ideas and titles: Is Parenting Complicated or Simple? What is the Greatest Threat to the Christian Family? Helping Children Discover Heart Idols, Why Parents Spank, and lastly, Why Parents Don’t Spank [6]

D. Audio

    1. Drive By Parenting: A 31-Part Conversation about Shepherding a Child’s Heart, hosted by Todd Friel [2]
    2. Rejuvenating the Gospel in Your Marriage and Family– an audio recording in 2010 of seven Shepherd Press authors. The authors shared, “biblical wisdom with the power to renew your life and marriage”. Tedd Tripp contributed two lessons titled: Rejuvenating the Gospel in Your Marriage, and The Empty Nest Season of Marriage [7]
    3. Three lessons from Tedd Tripp: Shepherding Your Child’s Heart: Ages 0-5, Ages 6-12, and Teenagers [10]
    4. Sixteen various sermons and teachings from Sermonaudio.com [9]

E. Video

    1. Shepherding a Child’s Heart: A 12-Part Video on Parenting [2]
    2. Instructing a Child’s Heart: A 13-Part Video Series on Formative Instruction [2]

 

V. Influence on Biblical Counseling

    1. The greatest impact Tedd Tripp has contributed to Biblical Counseling is his best-selling child rearing book, Shepherding a Child’s Heart. Tedd proves that children as adults, live out of their heart, and need to learn to worship God and not idols [12]. Since 1994, Tedd has devoted most of his time and energy as a conference speaker. He primarily presents seminars related to his book, Shepherding a Child’s Heart [10]. Tedd applies years of experience in applying the principles of Biblical Counseling specifically to parents and children.

 

VI. Bibliography

[1] “About Shepherding The Heart Ministries.” Shepherding the Heart Ministries, 6 Dec. 1970, shepherdingtheheart.org/about/. Accessed 30 Nov 2019.

[2] “Author: Tedd Tripp.” Shepherd Press, 21 Nov. 2019, www.shepherdpress.com/store/authors/tedd-tripp/. Accessed 30 Nov 2019.

[3] “Beliefs.” Grace Fellowship Church, www.gfchazleton.org/about-us/beliefs/. Accessed 5 Dec 2019.

[4] “A Note from Dr. Tripp.” Shepherding the Heart Ministries, shepherdingtheheart.org/about/note-from-dr-tripp/. Accessed 30 Nov 2019.

[5] “REASONS FOR RBNet.” Reformed Baptist Network, reformedbaptistnetwork.com/about/.

[6] Reinke, Tony, and Tedd Tripp. Desiring God: Ask Pastor John Podcast, www.desiringgod.org/authors/tedd-tripp. Accessed 3 Dec 2019.

[7] “Rejuvenating the Gospel in Your Marriage and Family.” Shepherd Press, 20 Nov. 2019, www.shepherdpress.com/products/rejuvenating-the-gospel/. Accessed 3 Dec 2019.

[8] “ShepherdPress.” YouTube, www.youtube.com/channel/UCvjwUyZIScwmx_JHoKt1Wzg. Accessed 5 Dec 2019.

[9] “Tedd Tripp Sermons.” SermonAudio, www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?keyword=Tedd_Tripp&SpeakerOnly=true. Accessed 5 Dec 2019.

[10] “Tedd Tripp.” Monergism, www.monergism.com/topics/mp3-audio-multimedia/family-and-marriage/tedd-tripp. Accessed 1 Dec 2019.

[11] Tripp, Tedd. “Communicate with Teens.” Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation, 22 Feb. 2019, http://www.ccef.org/communicate-teens/.

[12] Tripp, Tedd. Shepherding a Child’s Heart. Shepherd Press, 1995.

 

 

 

Elise Fitzpatrick

Posted on by Greg E. Gifford

Elyse Fitzpatrick

by Julie Carroll

Fitzpatrick

1. Known for

Elyse Fitzpatrick is known for her work in the area of biblical counseling—writing and speaking on the subject.

2. Biography

Fitzpatrick was born in 1950 with the place of her birth is unknown, although she currently resides in Escondido, CA.

A. Parents

Fitzpatrick’s parents are unknown, but Fitzpatrick has stated that she grew up in a ‘marginally Christian home.’

B. Education

She holds a bachelor’s degree in theology, a master’s degree in biblical counseling from Trinity Theological Seminary and was the first person to be certified through the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation. She also became a member with the National Association of Nouthetic Counselors (now the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors) in 1989.

C. Significant life events that impacted person

Elyse Fitzpatrick was raised in a secular home; therefore, she never really heard the Gospel message until right before her 21st birthday. She was befriended by a woman named Julie who is still her friend today. Julie shared the Gospel with Fitzpatrick, and the message was revolutionary since she was saved shortly after hearing it for the first time. After becoming saved in June of 1971, she began bible school in September of that same year. The Gospel revolutionized her life once more just recently as she was realizing that it had become secondary in importance to her counseling work. This took place during the writing of Because He Loves Me.

In her book Home, Fitzpatrick talks about several tragic events that impacted her greatly. A ministry she had involved herself in fell apart. Her home church went through certain issues that brought her great pain. Two acquaintances left their pastoral positions. Then her uncle, who had been a father figure in her life, died.

III. Theological Views

Fitzpatrick’s believes in the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. God is the Creator of the universe; Jesus is the One Who died for our sins and offers us free eternal life; and the Holy Spirit is the One Who empowers us.

Fitzpatrick believes that the Bible is ‘God’s revelation of truth.’ It is ‘the only book that can correctly diagnose our sin problem.’

Fitzpatrick has stated that man is sinful: ‘We sin. Others sin against us. We live in a sin-cursed world.’

IV. Works/Publications

A. Books

Elyse Fitzpatrick’s books can be found at this link:

https://www.christianbook.com/page/christian-authors/elyse-fitzpatrick?event=Christian-Authors|1002162

B. Pamphlets

C. Articles

Elyse Fitzpatrick’s own website is a great resource for her writings:

https://www.elysefitzpatrick.com/blog/

Some of her articles can be found at The Gospel Coalition:

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/profile/elyse-fitzpatrick/

Another great resource for finding articles written by Fitzpatrick would be the Revive Our Hearts website:

https://www.reviveourhearts.com/authors/elyse-fitzpatrick/

D. Interviews

Interviews with Elyse Fitzpatrick can be found at this link:

https://ibcd.org/?s=elyse+fitzpatrick

E. Audio

Video references can be found at RightNow Media:

https://www.rightnowmedia.org/Content/Speaker/999693

F. Influence on Biblical Counseling

Fitzpatrick, being the first certified counselor by Christian Counselor’s Educational Foundation, has had a great influence on the area of biblical counseling. From the very start, she has been very influential to the style in which counselors are taught. She is an outspoken supporter of women counseling women; she believes that women should seek degrees and certification in order to counsel solidly.

G. Bibliography

A list of her books are as follows:

Overcoming Fear, Worry, and Anxiety

Idols of the Heart: Learning to Long for God Alone

Comforts from the Cross: Celebrating the Gospel One Day at a Time

Love to Eat, Hate to Eat: Overcoming the Bondage of Destructive Eating Habits

Worthy: Celebrating the Value of Women

Answering Your Kid’s Toughest Questions: Helping Them Understand Loss, Sin, Tragedies, and Other Hard Topics

Good News for Weary Women: Escaping the Bondage of To-Do Lists, Steps and Bad Advice

When Good Kids Make Bad Choices: Help and Hope for Hurting Parents

Finding the Love of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation

Home: How Heaven and the New Earth Satisfy our Deepest Longings

The Afternoon of Life: How to Find Purpose and Joy in Midlife

Helper by Design

A Steadfast Heart: Experiencing God’s Comfort in Life’s Storms

Doubt: Trusting God’s Promises

You Never Stop Being a Parent: Thriving in Relationship with Your Adult Children

Women Counseling Women

Comfort from Romans: Celebrating God’s Word One Day at a Time

Will Medicine Stop the Pain? Finding God’s Healing for Depression, Anxiety, & Other Troubling Emotions

Because He Loves Me

Giving Them Grace: Dazzling Your Kids with the Love of Jesus

Found in Him: The Joy of the Incarnation and Our Union with Christ

Exploring Grace Together: 40 Devotionals for the Family

 

Social Anxiety

Posted on by Greg E. Gifford

By Josiah Garber

Problem/Condition

I. Definition

Biblical perspective

Biblically, social anxiety comes from the underlying main issue of pride. That is to say that social anxiety is a sin that stems from a person focusing on themselves too much. The person with social anxiety sees the approval of man as the ultimate good in their lives. This means that they despair when they believe that they will not receive that approval that they feel they need. Therefore, social anxiety is a sinful self-centeredness that is the inverse of self-exaltation. This self-centeredness then replaces God with a love of oneself that manifests itself in either traditional prideful actions or, in the case of social anxiety, a despair that the one does not live up to the standard that they believe they should. Effectively, the god of the person who is struggling with social anxiety is himself. Social Anxiety manifests itself in people feeling inferior to those around them. Viewing ourselves as less than we are, less than God created us to be, stops us from loving others the way that we should.

Scripture calls social anxiety sin very clearly. This is seen first of all in Matthew 6:25-34 where Christ exhorts all not to worry. In this passage, we are called to not be anxious.  Anxiety is shown to be useless; it will not add a single day to our life. Instead, Christ calls us to focus on the struggles of today. It is a call to focus on what we are currently up against, not our fears of the future. This whole passage, through the analogy of the flowers and of the sparrows, emphasizes the sovereignty of God. He is the one who will provide for all of our needs.

A second passage that deals with this issue is Philippians 4:6-9. In these brief few verses, Paul commands the Philippians to “not be anxious about anything.” Social Anxiety, then would  be included. This is a clear demonstration that anxiety is sin. However, Paul gives the solution to anxiety in this passage. That is, he states that the one who is anxious is to give their requests to God in thanksgiving, prayer, and faith. Peace, he states, is the result of this. This means that faith is important as the believer must trust not that God will grant what they want, but that He will give what is best for them.

Secular perspective

Social Anxiety Disorder, also called Social Phobia, is defined as “an emotion characterized by apprehension and somatic symptoms of tension in which an individual anticipates impending danger, catastrophe, or misfortune. The body often mobilizes itself to meet the perceived threat: Muscles become tense, breathing is faster, and the heart beats more rapidly.”[1] The secular view is purely physical, saying that it is simply an anticipatory fear of social situations. They distinguish fear and anxiety by saying that “Fear is the emotional response to real or perceived imminent threat, whereas anxiety is anticipation of future threat.”[2]

The treatment of social anxiety normally takes the form of one of two separate forms. The first is the use of psychiatric medications. These are usually similar to the ones used for depression, and they vary in their effectiveness at curbing symptoms from mildly successful to somewhat moderately successful. The second form of treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy. This will often take the form of exposure therapy or group therapy. It is also quite common for there to be a mixture of the two approaches in an attempt to cover the weaknesses of each approach. [3] In order for someone to be diagnosed with Social Anxiety they must have manifested symptoms for 6 months or longer.

 

II. History

Social Anxiety has existed for a very long time, with even general anxiety being directly addressed by both Jesus and Paul. The idea of social anxiety may have originated Hippocrates as early as 400 B.C. However, it wasn’t until 1968 in the DSM-II that Social Anxiety was specifically mentioned and defined. It was here that it was first classified, and the idea of it has only become more prevalent since.

III. Evidence of the Problem

Social Anxiety’s main theme is an avoidance of stressful social interactions. “The feared situation is most often avoided altogether or else it is endured with marked discomfort or dread.”[4] This often leads to isolation, where the person will distance themselves from their family or friends. Social Anxiety also manifests itself through a fear of judgement from others. It is a “fear or anxiety about one or more social situations in which the individual is exposed to possible scrutiny by others.”[5]

The person struggling with this will often fear that they will be rejected, unloved, or perceived as annoying, lame, stupid, weird, rude, boring, or a whole host of other undesirable outcomes.

IV. Etiology

While there is no known medical condition that causes Social Anxiety, there are several factors that may contribute to it. These factors are things such as abuse, internalization of fears, an unhealthy level of comparison of oneself to people one may see as ideal, and the perceived need to become the ideal form of oneself. Spiritually, Social Anxiety comes from a lack of trust in God, a propensity to not leave the worries of one’s life in the hands of God through faith and prayer. It may also come from valuing oneself as the most important thing, thus leading to that value having ultimate control over emotions and actions. [6]

Some physical symptoms of this issue are the avoidance of social situations, tremors, increased heart rate, tenseness, perspiration, and, in some more extreme cases, panic attacks. [7] Spiritual symptoms include a lack of trust in God, doubt in His promises to give  all that is needed, and a view of God’s love and provisions as not enough to satisfy social needs.

 

V. Examining the Heart

The possible heart themes behind Social Anxiety are a desire for control and a fear of man. The person with Social Anxiety will desire for the people in their lives to see them as they wish to be seen, of value, enjoyable to be around, and acceptable in their preferred social situations. Some idols that go along with this are a love of self, pride, and a love of comfort.

VI. Biblical Solutions 

In his Christian Counselor’s Manual, Jay Adams says “If the counselee’s fear fundamentally is a fear of men, then the answer lies in encouraging him to engage in loving ministry, in which he may give of himself to others. Granted, more may be involved, but ultimately, fear will vanish only when he has learned to live the life of loving concern for his neighbor.”[8] Adams also states that a constant and continuous prayer life will lead to peace. [9] Others mention that it is most important that one does not value himself primarily, as that will lead to worry. Valuing Christ first and other people before oneself will take the focus off of oneself, helping to get rid of anxiety. [10]

Recommended Books

“When People are Big and God is Small” by Edward T. Welch

“Overcoming Anxiety: Relief for Worried People” by David Powlison

“Anxiety Attacked: Applying Scripture to the Cares of the Soul” by John MacArthur

Recommended Homework Resources

“A Christian Growth and Discipleship Manual: A Homework Manual for Biblical Living Volume 3” by Wayne A. Mack and Wayne Erick Johnston

“For Further Thought” sections in “When People are Big and God is Small” by Edward T. Welch

 

 

 

[1] Gary R. VadenBos, APA Dictionary of Psychology (Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Association, 2015), 66.

[2] David J. Kupper et al., DSM-V (Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Association, 2013), 189.

[3] Vladin Staracevic, Anxiety Disorders in Adults: A Clinical Guide (Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press, 2010), 183.

[4] VadenBos, 999.

[5] Kupper et al, 202.

[6] Robert D. Jones, “Getting to the Heart of Your Worry,” The Journal of Biblical Counseling 17, no. 3 (Spring 1999), 22.

 

[7] James Morrison, DSM-IV Made Easy (New York, NY: The Guilford Publications, 1995), 262.

[8] Adams, 417.

[9]  Jay E. Adams, The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling (Heckettstown, NJ: Timeless Texts, 2003), 190-191.

[10] Jones, 22.

Schizophrenia

Posted on by Greg E. Gifford

By Janae Stout

I. Definition

  1. Biblical Perspective
    1. A person with schizophrenia has an inability to function normally in a society due to bizarre behavior as a result of organic/inorganic forces. This includes either internal or external forces that distort judgments and reality.[1] The counselee dealing with Schizophrenia has physical implications that impairs their ability to perceive and function in a normal way, which is not necessarily sin, but the response of giving into the temptations to be self-focused, to fear, act in anger, laziness, and other manifestations are sinful. The heart theme that must be addressed in Schizophrenics is their response and deep-rooted fear, guilt/shame and selfishness.
  2. Secular Perspective
    1. Schizophrenia, literally meaning “fragmented mind”[2] is a psychiatric disorder occurring in only one percent of the population involving chronic or recurrent psychosis and is commonly associated with impairments in social and occupational functioning[3]. Schizophrenia is believed to comprise a ‘spectrum’ of related conditions with variable severity, course, and outcome.[4]

Continue reading Schizophrenia

Dementia

Posted on by Greg E. Gifford

By Theresa Egger

I. Definition

 Dementia is a syndrome wherein an individual experiences inhibited cognitive functioning to the extent that it interferes with daily life. Dementia is not synonymous with aging and it is distinguishable from the inevitable consequences of aging which include dulled senses and occasional forgetfulness.[1] Dementia is not a disease. Rather, it is a syndrome meaning that it is a group of symptoms which occur together. [2] Additionally, dementia is not synonymous with Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is one specific disease that causes dementia. This means that everyone who has Alzheimer’s disease has dementia, but not everyone with dementia has Alzheimer’s. Although the term dementia is never found in Scripture, the Bible is living and active and therefore still offers relevant truths for this situation (Hebrews 4:12). First, Genesis 3 tells us that illness is the result of the fall. Like all physical disorders, this is not part of God’s original design. Because of sin, bodily decay and ultimately death are inevitable. Additionally, Scripture offers instructions for how the believer should respond to dementia. Finally, God’s Word offers hope for those who have been affected by this illness.

The secular world’s primary treatment for dementia is medication.[3] Healthy dieting is also often encouraged either to reverse or prevent dementia. [4] There are also several therapies intended to help the individual with dementia improve their memory or feel more comfortable. Examples include reminiscence therapy, music therapy, reality orientation and aromatherapy.[5]

In the past, individuals with dementia were referred to as senile however today, dementia has replaced the term senile.[6] The first edition of the DSM referred to dementia as a “chronic brain syndrome associated with senile brain disease.”[7] In the DSM-II it was considered an “organic brain syndrome.”[8] The DSM-III relabeled dementia as an “organic mental disorder.”[9] Interestingly, however, the DSM-IV categorized dementia as a cognitive disorder dropping the term “organic” because it implied that there are mental disorders which don’t have a biological base.[10] Finally, the DSM-V has dropped the term dementia all-together and renamed it a major neurocognitive disorder.[11]

II. Evidence of the Problem

Symptoms[12]

  1. Impairment in abstract thinking.
  2. Impaired judgment: inability to reason and make logical decisions.
  3. Other disturbances of higher cortical function such as language and motor skills.
  4. Personality change: Individuals with dementia may become angered more easily or irritable.

Dementia is a physical problem and therefore there is always a physiological cause. Examples of potential causes:[13]

  1. Alzheimer’s disease[14]
  2. Frontotemporal dementia (Pick’s disease).
  3. Traumatic brain injury.
  4. Lewy Body Dementia.
  5. Vascular Dementia/Binswanger’s disease.
  6. Brain tumors
  7. Parkinson’s disease.
  8. Huntington’s disease.
  9. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
  10. HIV-AIDS.
  11. Normal-pressure hydrocephalus.
  12. Degenerative dementia of old age.

III. Examining the Heart

Dementia is not a spiritual problem but a physical one. Thus, the individual with dementia does not need to be encouraged toward repentance and heart change unless there have been sinful manifestations that have resulted from the dementia. For example, individuals with dementia may become angered more easily than they did prior to developing this illness. However, this does not mean that the dementia is causing the angry outbursts. A person’s body cannot cause them to sin.[15] Rather, anger is most likely a heart issue that was present before the illness, but has now been publically manifested because they are no longer able to hide it.[16] In these instances a potential heart theme to consider is control. While addressing sin in an individual with dementia will be much more complicated, the biblical instruction to lovingly confront our brother or sister in sin still applies (Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 6:1-3).

Another issue that often arises within the discussion of dementia is the salvation of the individual with dementia. Is the person with dementia able to make the confession of faith which Romans 10:9 states is required for salvation? First, we must remember that the Gospel is profound yet simple enough for a child to understand (Matthew 18:3; Mark 10:15). Furthermore, we must trust that God is sovereign over an individual’s salvation. If God has elected that person for salvation, they will be saved (Romans 8:30). Thus, we should continue evangelizing and trust God with the results (Romans 10:14). Finally, if the individual with dementia did make a confession of faith and exhibited fruits of repentance prior to their illness, we can trust that God will keep His promise to preserve them until the end if they are truly His (Ephesians 4:30).[17]

IV. Biblical Solutions

Because dementia is a physical problem, the majority of counseling will involve coming alongside of the caregiver.[18] For this reason, the following counseling agenda has been focused towards providing hope and biblical instruction for the primary caregiver of the individual with dementia.

  1. The counselor should seek to build involvement with the counselee by praying for her and showing genuine compassion. This can be done by listening well and seeking to be a friend.[19] Because of the nature of the situation it will also be helpful to offer to help with meals, home care and even house chores. Show the counselee you love them by offering to help in practical ways.
  2. During the inventory process the counselor should ask questions in three areas. First, ask questions regarding the physical well-being of the individual with dementia. This will help you gain a better understanding of the situation. Secondly, ask questions about the caregiver’s well-being. It is essential that we minister to them as whole people because the physical and spiritual components influence one another.[20] Finally, ask questions about the caregiver’s spiritual health. Ask her to share her testimony. Can she verbalize the Gospel? Ask about Scripture-reading, prayer and church attendance. This will help you know where she is at spiritually and enable you to discern whether she is a strong believer who simply needs to be encouraged, or if she is an unruly counselee who needs to be admonished (1 Thessalonians 5:14).
  3. Instilling hope in the counselee will be absolutely crucial for the counseling process. This hope should be founded on God’s promises contained in His Word. Because dementia is an illness, offer comfort from passages which assure believers that there will be a future resurrection. Revelation 21:4 assures us that in the eternal state there will be no more pain or death. Additionally, the promises of God’s presence with His people can provide invaluable hope and comfort during difficult seasons (e.g. Psalms 94:14; Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5).
  4. Interpretation will involve discerning what the counselee is responsible for. Because Dementia is a physical problem, there is not sin to be repented of in this initial diagnosis.[21] There may, however, be some sins that have arisen in response to this trial. This must be addressed in counseling.
  5. Instruction should be offered in the area of sufferology. Suffering is the result of living in a fallen world. Therefore, the counselee is not responsible for the trial but how she responds. Additionally, because the individual with dementia is very forgetful and frequently repeats themselves, patience is one area that will likely need to be addressed. Point the counselee to 1 Corinthians 10:13 which reminds us that God won’t let us be tempted beyond what we are able.[22]
  6. During inducement, it will be crucial to point the counselee back to the example of Christ. It might be helpful to do a study on love and point the counselee to Christ who loved the church by sacrificing His own life. The parable of the unmerciful servant in Matthew 18 is another good passage which reminds us of the forgiveness that God has extended to us which is our motivation to forgive others.
  7. Homework should include prayer, repentance (1 John 1:9) and Bible study. Potential passages to do Bible studies on are 1 Corinthians 13, Philippians 4:4-8, and Hebrews 4:14-16.
  8. Finally, integration will be absolutely essential for the caregiver. Encourage your counselee to get involved in a small group at church. The church will be able to provide practical help as well as spiritual encouragement and accountability for the counselee during this tiring season. God has given believers the body of Christ to help one another in this way (1 Thessalonians 5:14).

Recommended books

Adams, Jay E. How to Handle Trouble God’s Way. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Pub, 1982.

Deane, Barbara. Caring for Your Aging Parents: When Love Is Not Enough. Colorado Springs, Colo.: NavPress, 1989.

Drew, Holly Dean, and Theological Research Exchange Network. “Counseling the Caregiver: Addressing the Biblical Responsibility and care of Aging Parents,” 2002.

Fitzpatrick, Elyse. Women Counseling Women. Eugene, Or.: Harvest House, 2010.

Welch, Edward T. Blame It on the Brain: Distinguishing Chemical Imbalances, Brain Disorders, and Disobedience. Resources for Changing Lives. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub, 1998.

Welch, Edward T. Counselor’s Guide to the Brain and Its Disorders: Knowing the Difference between Disease and Sin. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 1991.

 

 

 

[1] Ed Welch. Blame it on the Brain. (Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub, 1998), 71.

[2] Consumer Dummies. Alzheimer’s and Dementia for Dummies. (Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley and Sons, 2016), 8.

[3] Kenneth Partridge. The Brain. (New York: H.W. Wilson, 2009), 114.

[4] Neal D. Barnard. Power Foods for the Brain. (New York, NY: Hachette Book Group, 2013)

[5] Consumer Dummies. Alzheimer’s and Dementia for Dummies. 150-155

[6] Welch. Blame it on the Brain. 70

[7] American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 22

[8] American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-II. 24

[9] American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-III. 107

[10] American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-IV. 123

[11] American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-V.

[12] American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-III-R. 107

[13] Marshall Asher and Mary Asher. The Christian’s Guide to Psychological Terms. (Bemidji, Minn.: Focus Pub, 2014), 56.

[14] Ed Welch. Counselor’s Guide to the Brain and Its Disorders, (Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 1991), 108.

[15] Elyse Fitzpatrick. Women Counseling Women. (Eugene, Or.: Harvest House, 2010), 127

[16] Welch. Blame it on the Brain. 78-79

[17] Wayne Grudem. Biblical Doctrine. (Leicester, England: Inter-Varsity Press, 1004), 337.

[18] Welch. Blame it on the Brain. 63

[19] Stuart Scott and Heath Lambert. Counseling the Hard Cases. (Nashville, Tenn.: B & H Academic, 2012), 182.

[20] Ibid., 213.

[21] Welch. Blame it on the Brain. 63

[22] Fitzpatrick. Women Counseling Women.  247

David Powlison

Posted on by Greg E. Gifford

By Thomas Watson

CCEF’s Former Executive Director, Senior Editor of the Journal of Biblical Counseling

I. Biography

  1. Early life
  2. Birth
  3. When: December 14, 1949
  4. Where: Honolulu Hawaii, United States
  5. Parents: Peter A. and Dora M. Powlison
  6. Spouse: Nancy H. Gardner
  7. Children: Peter Powlison, Hannah Powlison, Gwenyth Powlison
  8. Death: June 7, 2019

David Powlison was a Presbyterian author and biblical counselor; he is the executive director to CCEF, the senior editor of the Journal of Biblical Counseling and is a member of the counsel of the Gospel Coalition. He has been practicing counseling for over 30 years. His work is credited for bridging the gap between the secular psychiatric philosophy and biblical schools of counseling. He has written many books and articles on subjects such as sexual sin, anxiety, and grief.

David Powlison was born on December 14, 1949 to Peter and Dora Powlison on the island of Honolulu of Hawaii in the United States. He and his wife, Nancy H. Gardner, had 3 children, Peter, Hannah, and Gwyneth Powlison (TGC, PTLGOS).

At the age of 25, Powlison was working at McLean Psychiatric Hospital in the mental health department, in Belmont Massachusetts, when Christ convicted him of sin and brought him to repentance (CW, HGSD). After his conversion, while working in the Psychiatric Hospital as a mental health worker, Powlison started observing the constant suffering of the patients, that had little to no hope for change or healing. Powlison became “disillusioned with secular psychologies.” He found one individual quite interesting while working there, a man who was a mental health worker with no aspirations for high education. This man was building relationships with the patients, holding them accountable to their choices, and not blaming their behavior primarily on mental disorders. This induced the patients to react differently and ask for this particular man when they were in distress. The difference between what this man and the rest of the faculty practiced help lead Powlison to believe that the theories were fundamentally at odds and went to study theology at Westminster Theological Seminary (WTS; WSTIC).

Powlison started his education at Harvard University, with a Bachelor of Arts in 1971 then pursued a MDiv from Westminster Theological Seminary 1980. In 1986 he received his Master of Arts from the University of Pennsylvania. Then went on to get a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania in 1996 his subject of study—history of science and medicine, with an emphasis on the history of psychiatry (PB, DAP).

II. Education

  1. AB, Harvard University, 1971
  2. MDiv from Westminster Theological Seminary 1980
  3. MA University of Pennsylvania, 1986
  4. PhD from University of Pennsylvania, 1996
    1. History of science and medicine, primarily history of psychiatry.

 

III. Significant life events that impacted person

IV. Theological Views

  1. Presbyterian

V. Works/Publications

  1. Books

Anger: Escaping the Maze – 2000

The Biblical Counseling Movement: history and Context – 2010

Breaking the Addictive Cycle: Deadly Obsessions or Simple Pleasures? – 2010

God’s Grace in Your Suffering – 2018

Good and angry: Redeeming Anger, irritation, Complaining, and Bitterness – 2016

How does Sanctification Work? – 2017

Jax’s Tail Twitches: When you are Angry – 2018

Making All Things New: restoring Joy to the Sexually Broken – 2017

Pornography: Slaying the Dragon – 1999

Power Encounters: Reclaiming Spiritual Warfare – 1994

Seeing with new eyes” Counseling and the Human Condition through the Lens of Scripture – 2005

Speaking Truth in love: Counsel in Community – 2005

Zoe’s Hiding Place: when you are Anxious – 2018

Power Encounter: Reclaiming Spiritual Warfare – 1994

Controlling Anger Responding Constructively when life Goes Wrong – 2008

I’m Exhausted: What to do When You’re Always Tired – 2010

Pleasure – 2005

Competent to Counsel? The History of a Conservative Protestant Biblical Counseling Movement – 2008

2. Pamphlets

Anger: Understanding anger – ?

Coming Clean: Breaking Pornography’s Hold on You – 2012

Controlling Anger: Responding Constructively When Life Goes Wrong – 2012

Domestic Abuse: How to Help – 2001

Facing Death with Hope: Living for what Lasts – 2008

God as Father: When Your Own Father Failed – 2005

God’s Love: better Than Unconditional – 2001

Grieving a Suicide: Help for the Aftershock – 2010

Healing After Abortion: God’s Mercy Is for You – 2008

I Just Want to Die: Replacing Suicidal Thoughts with Hope – 2008

I’m Exhausted: What to Do When You’re Always Tired – 2010

Innocence Lost: Rebuilding after Victimization – 2012

Journal of Biblical Counseling, 28-1 – 2014

Journal of Biblical Counseling, 28-2 – 2014

Journal of Biblical Counseling, 28-3 – 2015

Journal of Biblical Counseling, 29-1 – 2015

Journal of Biblical Counseling, 30-1 – 2016

Journal of Biblical Counseling, 30-2 – 2016

Journal of Biblical Counseling, 30-3 – 2016

Journal of Biblical Counseling Must Reads on Anger – 2013

Journal of Biblical Counseling Must Reads On Redeeming Psychology – 2013

The Journal of Biblical Counseling Must Reads: On Apologetics –

The Journal of Biblical Counseling Must Reads: On Counseling in the Church –

The Journal of Biblical Counseling Must Reads: on Methodology –

The Journal of Biblical Counseling Must Reads: on Model –

The Journal of Biblical Counseling Must Reads: on Sexuality –

Journal of biblical Counseling, Volume, 26 #3 – 2012

Journal of Biblical Counseling, Volume 27 #1 – 2013

Journal of Biblical Counseling, Volume 27 #3 – 2014

Journal of Biblical Counseling 18-1 – 1999

Journal of Biblical Counseling 18-2 – 2000

Life Beyond Your Parent’s Mistakes: The Transforming Power of God’s Love – 2010

Overcoming Anxiety: Relief for Worried People – 2012

Pre-Engagement: Five Questions to Ask Yourselves – 2000

Real Love: Better Than Unconditional? – 2012

Recovering from Child Abuse: Healing and Hope for Victims – 2008

Renewing marital Intimacy: Closing the Gap Between You and Your Spouse – 2008

Sexual Addiction: Freedom from Compulsive Behavior – 2010

Sexual assault: healing steps for Victims – 2010

Stress: Peace amid Pressure – 2004

Stressed Out: becoming Peaceful on the Inside – 2012

When Cancer Interrupts – 2015

When You Are Worried: Finding Reasons for Peace – 2012

Why Me?: Comfort for the Victimized

Worry: Pursuing a Better Path to Peace – 2004

You Make Me So Mad! Managing Your Anger – 2012

3. Articles

An Open Letter to the Suffering Christian – 2018

An Open Letter to Those Nonchalant about Their Sexual sin – 2017

An Open Letter to those Debilitated by their Sexual Sin – 2017

An Open letter to those apathetic about their sanctification – 2017

An open letter to those frustrated by their progress in sanctification – 2017

A Conversation Between David Powlison and Winston Smith

Why do we Pray?

Emmanuel shall come to you

Helping those who are angry with God

Thankfulness

God is changing us – but how?

Sanctification is a Direction

What is the Ultimate Goal of Sexual Renewal?

Is Sexual Renewal a Simple or Complex Process?

5 Sources of True Change

The Many Ways God Changes Us

4. Interviews

The root of sinful anger

Ten Ways Not to Waste Your Cancer

Making All Things New: Restoring Pure Joy to the Sexually Broken

God, Psychology, and Christian Care of the Soul – Panel Discussion

God, Psychology, and Christian Care of the Soul, Part 1 – David Powlison

God, Psychology, and Christian Care of the Soul, Part 2 – David Powlison

God, Psychology, and Christian Care of the Soul, Part 3 – David Powlison

Gospel Coalition’s David Powlison battling stage 4 pancreatic cancer

 

 

VI. Influence on Biblical Counseling

  1. Bridging the gap between sin and psychopathology, Powlison believed that “sin is the core of psychopathology.” Sin skewed your goals and perception of God and the world. Powlison looked at Ecclesiastics 9:3 and saw that there is “madness in our hearts while we live.” His point is that whatever the physiological or environmental influences may be, such as genetic predispositions and cultural values, all factors must be held together. This idea is in contrast to the idea of blaming environment or only one factor. That the root of all sin and mental illness comes directly from the persons heart (CCEF, RBSP).

VII. Bibliography

David Powlison – “Why I Chose Seminary for Training in Counseling” http://online.wts.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Powlison-on-Seminary-for-Counseling-2.pdf , (WTS WSTIC) August 2017

David Powlison – “on the relationship between sin and psychopathology”

https://www.ccef.org/video/david-powlison-relationship-between-sin-and-psychopathology/ , (ccef, RBSP) April 2016

PraBook Biography: :David A. Powlison” World Biographical Encyclopedia, Inc

https://prabook.com/web/david_a.powlison/358932?profileId=358932 ,(PB, DAP) Accessed May 2019

Dr. David Powlison, “How God saved David Powlison From Destroying Himself”

https://www.crossway.org/articles/how-god-saved-david-powlison-from-destroying-himself/ , (CW, HGSD) May 2017

 

External Links

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/432227.David_A_Powlison

https://www.ccef.org/people/david-powlison/

https://www.desiringgod.org/authors/david-powlison

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/profile/david-powlison/

https://prabook.com/web/david_a.powlison/358932?profileId=358932

https://www.amazon.com/David-Powlison/e/B001JOTTKS

https://www.rightnowmedia.org/Content/Speaker/1000325

https://www.crossway.org/authors/david-powlison/

 

                                               

 

Anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder)

Posted on by Greg E. Gifford

By Julie Golan

I. Definition

Biblical perspective

The Bible would describe anxiety as a sinful worry, often about the future (Matthew 6:25-34; Philippians 4:6). There are references in Scripture to good kinds of fear, however. The fear of the Lord, for example, is something that the Bible instructs all people to have (Deuteronomy 10:12, Psalm 33:8, Matthew 10:28). Additionally, there is biblical concern that is not sinful, which Paul uses to express genuine care, particularly in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:25, 2 Corinthians 11:28-29, Philippians 2:20).

The majority of Scriptural texts mentioning anxiety or worry are in reference to sinful practices. In Matthew 6, Jesus instructs: “do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on” (Matthew 6:25). He goes on to explain God’s provision for “the birds of the air” and “the lilies of the field”, demonstrating how much more He will provide for those who are His own (Matthew 6:26-30). Concluding, Jesus says, “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34). In Philippians, Paul commands the church to “be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6). Peter also speaks on anxiety, instructing the recipients of his letter to cast “all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). The previous verse explains that doing so is an act of humility before the Lord (1 Peter 5:6-7). Before sending Israel into the promised land, God commanded Joshua to “Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). Here, God reminded Joshua of His faithful character and promises, by which there was no need for fear. Again, God reminds those in Israel “with anxious heart” that they need not fear because of God’s promise for ultimate deliverance (Isaiah 35:4). Furthermore, there are many examples in the Psalms where believers have expressed deliverance from fear and that they need not fear because of God’s character and promises (Psalm 23:4, 27:1, 56:3-4, 118:6).

Secular Perspective

In a broad sense, the DMS 5 anxiety as “the anticipation of future threat”.[1] However, there are many different manifestations of anxiety within the realm of psychology. The DSM 5 separates anxiety into seven broad categories: separation anxiety disorder, selective mutism, specific phobia, social phobia, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and generalized anxiety disorder, substance/medication-induced anxiety disorder, anxiety disorder due to another medical condition, other specified anxiety disorder, unspecified anxiety disorder.[2]

Secular treatment for anxiety will primarily be done through medication and psychotherapy. The Harvard Mental Health Letter provides almost 10 different types of medication that can help anxiety and suggests three different types of psychotherapy.

II. History

Fear has existed since the fall, when Adam and Eve hid from God in the garden because they knew their nakedness (Genesis 3:8-10). In terms of anxiety, some have suggested that “Ancient Greek and Latin authors reported cases of pathological anxiety, and identified them as medical disorders” as early as the 3rd-4th century B.C.[3] In modern psychology, Sigmund Freud “coined many of the terms used for various anxiety disorders” in the early DSM books.[4] Beginning with a 1894 article [5], Freud became the first major psychologist to distinguish different types of anxiety. From his work came the popularization of panic attacks, obsessiveness, and phobias.[6] “Freud’s early work unified under the umbrella of ‘anxiety’ a variety of previously distinct syndromes or symptoms that had been associated with broader conditions.” [7] His work paved the way for the “diagnostic revolution of 1980.” [8] Up until this point, there was still a broad understanding of anxiety. However, the introduction of the DSM 3 in 1980 brought about a “large variety of distinct and categorical definitions of anxiety” unlike anything prior.[9] Since, developments and diagnoses of anxiety have only increased.

III. Evidence of the Problem

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is “characterized by a pattern of frequent, persistent excessive anxiety and worry that is out of proportion to the impact of the event or circumstance that is the focus of the worry”.[10] Diagnostic criteria include finding it difficult to control worry, impaired functioning, and physical symptoms such as restlessness and irritability. To be diagnosed with GAD, an individual must be experiencing these symptoms regularly for a minimum of 6 months.

IV. Etiology

According to the Harvard Mental Health Letter, GAD can occur due to other psychiatric disorders such as “substance use disorder or alcohol dependence”.[11] It also notes that “severe or constant stress can produce a hyperactive anxiety reaction”.[12] Spiritual causes for anxiety are often rooted in not trusting God, as suggested by Dr. John MacArthur in his book Anxious for Nothing.[13]

Spiritual symptoms of anxiety can include doubting God’s faithfulness to be true to His character and/or promises. Physical symptoms of GAD can include fatigue, trouble sleeping, trembling, nervousness, sweating, nausea, and irritability.[14]

V. Examining the Heart

One heart theme behind anxiety could include a desire for control. The person struggling with anxiety desires their circumstances to be different and is not meditating on and trusting in God’s sovereignty within the situation. An idol within a desire for control could include the worship of comfort. A sinful desire for comfort could tempt one toward anxiety for the future, health, safety, and more.

VI. Biblical Solutions

Jay Adams suggested the method of “eliminating fear by love”.[15] Essentially, transferring the focus off the one struggling and onto loving others, ultimately God. “Love toward God means focusing upon how one may trust, worship, and serve Him; love toward one’s neighbor likewise focuses upon a giving relationship to him”.[16]  Dr. John MacArthur suggests an agenda that has an emphasis on prayer, and in doing so practicing obedience to Philippians 4:6.[17]

Recommended Books

“Anxious for Nothing: God’s Cure for the Cares of Your Soul” by John MacArthur

“Overcoming Fear, Worry, and Anxiety: Becoming a Woman of Faith and Confidence” by Elyse Fitzpatrick

“Overcoming Anxiety: Relief for Worried People” by David Powlison

 

Recommended Homework Resources

A Homework Manual for Biblical Living by Wayne Mack

Discussion Guides in Anxious for Nothing by John MacArthur

Fear Homework Assignment Samples from The Institute for Biblical Counseling and Discipleship: https://ibcd.org/fear-homework-assignment-samples/

 

Bibliography

[1]Black, Donald W., and Jon E. Grant. DSM-5 Guidebook : The Essential Companion to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. American Psychiatric Publishing, 2014.

[2] Black, Donald W., and Jon E. Grant. DSM-5 Guidebook : The Essential Companion to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. American Psychiatric Publishing, 2014.

[3] Marc-Antoine Crocq. A History of Anxiety: from Hippocrates to DSM. The National Center for Biotechnology Information. 2015.

 [4] Marc-Antoine Crocq. A History of Anxiety: from Hippocrates to DSM. The National Center for Biotechnology Information. 2015.

[5] “The Justification for Detaching from Neurasthenia a Particular Syndrome: The Anxiety-Neurosis”.

[6] Horwitz, Allan V. Anxiety : A Short History. Johns Hopkins University Press, 2013, P 80

[7] Horwitz, Allan V. Anxiety : A Short History. Johns Hopkins University Press, 2013. P 80

[8] Horwitz, Allan V. Anxiety : A Short History. Johns Hopkins University Press, 2013. P 80

[9] Horwitz, Allan V. Anxiety : A Short History. Johns Hopkins University Press, 2013. P 6

[10] Horwitz, Allan V. Anxiety : A Short History. Johns Hopkins University Press, 2013. P 6

[11] Harvard Health Publishing. “Generalized Anxiety Disorder.” Harvard Health Blog. Accessed December 01, 2018.

[12] Harvard Health Publishing. “Generalized Anxiety Disorder.” Harvard Health Blog. Accessed December 01, 2018.

[13] MacArthur, John. Anxious for Nothing : God’s Cure for the Cares of Your Soul. Vol. 3rd ed, David C. Cook, 2012.

[14] Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Mayo Clinic.

[15] Jay Adams, The Christian Counselor’s Manual, 416.

[16]  Jay Adams, The Christian Counselor’s Manual, 416.

[17] John MacArthur, Anxious for Nothing, chapter 2.

Depression

Posted on by Greg E. Gifford

By Hannah Giesbrecht

I. Definition:

Depression is defined as a mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life.

II. Biblical perspective

Depression comes in a variety of different ways and it affects different people differently. Depression can become a debilitating state that comes as a result of spiritual or physical infirmities. The Bible views depression as a trial, a time of suffering that, if viewed with an eternal perspective and treated in a biblically way, will ultimately increase our faith. Depression results as a lack of biblical hope and trust in God. However, depression can be the result of physical imbalances, so regular doctor’s visits are crucial for someone who may be struggling with depression. Our physical body does affect our spiritual and mental health. Depression is characterized by hopelessness, joylessness, guilt, shame, sadness, and worthlessness. Whenever anything or anyone other than God is the focal point of our worship and desire, this kind of idolatry impacts our behavior, our thoughts and our emotions. Romans 5:14 says, “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” The Scriptures are sufficient for our every need and that includes battling depression; God’s Word is overflowing with truth that brings hope and peace.

Counseling that skillfully employs and applies God’s Word is a necessary duty of Christian life and fellowship. Scripture is superior to human wisdom and the Word of God is a more effective discerner of the human heart than any earthly means. Our Heavenly Father is the only effective agent of recovery and regeneration. All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found in Christ Himself. It is the job of biblical counselors to point counselees to the everlasting hope found in Christ and His Word, because Scripture is sufficient.

III. Secular perspective

  1. Diagnostic criteria for depression based on DSM-IV:[1]

Based on the 9-item depression module from the MINI participants are classified in the following way:

  • Major depressive episode: 5 or more symptoms, including of the key symptoms.
  • Sub-threshold depressive symptoms: 2-4 symptoms, may or may not include a key symptom.
  • Non-depressed: 0-1 symptoms

Symptoms:

  1. Depressed mood*
  2. Loss of interest*
  3. Significant weight loss or gain or decrease or increase in appetite
  4. Insomnia or hypersomnia
  5. Psychomotor agitation or retardation
  6. Fatigue or loss of energy
  7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt
  8. Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness
  9. Recurrent thoughts of death, recurrent suicidal ideation without a specific plan, or suicide attempt or a specific plan

*key symptoms

  1. Depression is the persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest that characterizes major depression can lead to a range of behavioral and physical symptoms.

Therapies recommended to those with depression:

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  2. Behavior Therapy
  3. Psychotherapy

Secular treatment consists of antidepressants. Medication often prescribed to depression patients includes:

  1. Bupropion
  2. Venlafaxine
  3. Mirtazapine
  4. Duloxetine
  5. Amitriptyline

Recommended specialists:

  1. Clinical psychologist
  2. Psychiatrist
  3. Primary care provider (PCP)
  4. Emergency medicine doctor

IV. History

Many scholars think that depression was first recognized as early as the time of the Ancient Greeks. The Greeks thought the disease was due to an imbalance in the four basic bodily fluids, or humors. Later, Aretaeus of Cappadocia noted that sufferers were dejected and stern, without any real cause. The name given to depression then was known as Melancholia, which was a far broader concept than today’s depression. In the 11th century, Persian physician Avicenna described melancholia as a mood disorder. Avicenna’s work, The Canon of Medicine, alongside the work of Hippocrates and Galen, became the standard of medical thinking in Europe. In the 18th century, German physician Johann Christian Heinroth argued that melancholia was a disturbance of the soul due to moral conflict. The term depression was derived from the Latin verb deprimere, which means, “to press down.” In the 19th and 20th centuries, English psychiatrist Henry Maudsely proposed a general category of affective disorder. Depression and reactive depression came to refer to a mood and not a reaction to outside events. In the 21st century, humanistic theories of depression have represented a forceful affirmation of individualism.

Depression has also been called clinical depression, major depression and major depressive disorder. Current treatment of depression implies that depression is a biomedical disease, which is why most psychiatrists prescribe antidepressants. The expert panels for treating depression (Depression Guideline Panel 1993; Katz and Alexopoulos 1996; Ballenger et a. 1999; WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Training 2000) recommend a clinical approach can be summarized as follows. Providers should:

  1. Recognize the presenting symptoms of depression and its causes.
  2. Make an explicit diagnosis of depression.
  3. Educate the patient and family, and stress that depression is treatable.
  4. Engage the patient and family in choosing treatment.
  5. Assess patients’ progress regularly.

Usually, treatment of depression begins with a patient visiting a health-care provider and reporting symptoms that suggest a mood disorder. Oftentimes the emotional symptoms of depression are hidden behind physical symptoms like complaints of fatigue.

V. Evidence of the Problem

Common themes and patterns observed in the lives of those who have been diagnosed with depression are extreme sadness, anxiety, listlessness, and feeling blue. Those who struggle with depression are often fatigued, over time becoming restless and irritable. Sleep is often restless, tossing and turning all night. Nightmares occur frequently, making restful sleep even more difficult. Another common theme is utter hopelessness. Many of those who are depressed are also suicidal. Depression is a despair that consumes you.

Severe depression can be debilitating, and there are several key expressions, recognizable as symptoms of depression. some cases where the activity level is as minimal as possible. Depression can have severe long term effects on one’s daily functions, as well as relationships with friends and families. Guilt and feelings of worthlessness overcome the counselee. Everything is negative, dwelling on past sad experiences, sins, failures and disappointments. Minor problems become major problems as one imagines the worst possible scenario. Some people lose unhealthy amounts of weight, while some people struggle to eat at all. People lose interest or pleasure in what used to interest you. Many people have trouble concentrating, feeling as though thoughts and movements have been slowed down; like your brain is fuzzy and in slow motion.[2] Depression takes a big toll on one’s physical self as well as one’s spiritual self. Many believers struggle to pray when they are feeling depressed.

VI. Etiology

Depression is an issue that affects people physically and spiritually. There isn’t an over arching “rule of thumb” for theories of depression. It manifests itself differently in different people. However, hope is found in the Person of Jesus Christ, not a pill. Sometimes the source of the problem is physical, then spiritual, sometimes vice versa. There are several spiritual symptoms and physical symptoms that can be seen in most cases of depression.

  1. Spiritual symptoms
    1. Hopelessness
    2. Continual lack of peace
    3. Not trusting in God
    4. Feelings of despair
    5. Discouragement
    6. Disappointment
    7. Despondency
    8. Lack of motivation
    9. Difficult to focus
    10. Diminishing prayer life

2. Physical symptoms

  1. Restlessness, unexplainable unhappiness
  2. Drastic change in weight
  3. Headache
  4. Brain fog
  5. Blurred vision
  6. Excessive crying
  7. Sadness
  8. Lack of concentration
  9. Irritability
  10. Social isolation

 

VII. Examining the Heart

  1. Heart themes
    1. Incorrect view of the faithfulness of God
    2. Hopelessness
    3. Incorrect view of the sovereignty of God
    4. Fear of man – guilt that others will think of you differently if they knew you struggled with depression.
    5. Lack of trust in the Lord (control)

2. Idols of the heart

  1. Pride
  2. Control,
  3. Self – reliance,
  4. Comfort
  5. Selfishness

 

VII. Biblical Solutions

  1. Counseling Agenda

Depression of one of the common temptations of man. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation that have overtaken you but such as is common to man.” One of the first steps a counselee can make towards change is admitting that God is capable of helping overcome depression. Another practical step a counselee can take is to commune with God through His Word. Lamentations 3:17-24 says, “I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him’” God is faithful, capable, sovereign, eternally good and we desperately need hope every day of our lives! Christians struggling with depression need to fix their eyes on the Lord, the Author and Perfecter of faith. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” There is a reason and a purpose for the trial of depression, but believers are called to depend on Him through it all. Hebrews 6:19 says, “We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain.” Christ is our sure and steadfast anchor, which offers hope through Him and His Word.

Recommended Resources:

Adams, Jay E. A. The Theology of Christian Counseling. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan,

1979.

Adams, Jay E. The Christian Counselor’s Manual. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1973.

Bridges, Jerry. Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts. Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress.

Busenitz, Nathan. Living A Life of Hope. Uhrichsville, OH: Barbour Publishing, 2003.

Lane, Timothy S., and Paul David Tripp. How People Change. Greensboro NC: New

Growth Press, 2008.

Somerville, Robert B. If I’m A Christian, Why Am I Depressed? United States of

America: Xulon Press, 2014.

Welch, Edward T. Depression: Looking Up from the Stubborn Darkness. Greensboro,

NC: New Growth Press, 2011.

Welch, Edward T. Depression: The Way Up When You Are Down (Resources for

Changing Lives). Greensboro, NC: New Growth Press, 2011.

Tada, Joni Eareckson. A Place of Healing: Wrestling with the Mysteries of Suffering,

Pain, and God’s Sovereignty. Colorado Springs, CO: Wolgemuth & Associates,

Inc. 2010.

Mack, Wayne A. Out of the Blues: Dealing with the Blues of Depression and Loneliness.

Minnesota: Focus Publishing, 2006.

Mack, Wayne A and Deborah Howard. It’s Not Fair! Finding Hope When Times Are

Tough. P & R Publishing: 2008.

Adams, Jay. What Do You Do When You Become Depressed? Phillipsburg, NJ:

Presbyterian and Reformed, 1975 (pamphlet).

Bridges, Jerry. Trusting God. Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 1989.

 

 

 

Recommended homework resources

Sample 1(taken from Robert Somerville’s book: If I’m a Christian, Why Am I Depressed?[3])

Somerville recommends journaling what you’re going through, as you’re learning and growing.

  • Journal a paragraph or two describing the anguish you feel.
  • Write out 1 Corinthians 10:13 in your journal and on a 3×5 card.
    • Memorize it.
    • On the back of the card write out a prayer, paraphrasing the verse as a prayer back to God. It might look like this: “Father, I thank You that You are faithful and that all our problems are common to man. I thank You that You never give us a temptation, test, or trial that is greater than we can handle. I thank You that You always provide a way through the problem so that we can handle it. Lord, as I face my depression today help me to look for the way out that You have provided so that I might be able to endure.”
    • Review the card and pray it back to God several times each day.
  • Read 1 Corinthians 10:13, Hebrews 4:14-16, and 1 John 1:9 and answer the following questions on each verse:
    • What has God promised you?
    • What hope and encouragement do you get from these three passages?
    • How will you respond to God’s promises in your situation?

 

 

[1] Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition, by the American Psychiatric Association.

[2] Somerville, Robert B. If I’m A Christian, Why Am I Depressed? United States of America: Xulon Press, 2014.

[3] Somerville, Robert B. If I’m A Christian, Why Am I Depressed? United States of America: Xulon Press, 2014.