For nearly 30 years, the Journal of Biblical Counseling (previously the Journal of Pastoral Practice) of CCEF (the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation) has provided a forum for biblical counseling’s development and application. The journal’s mission is to develop clear thinking and effective practice in biblical counseling through articles that faithfully bring the God of truth, mercy, and power to the issues faced by ministries of counseling and discipleship.
“Scripture makes it clear that rejoicing and sorrow may both exist in the same heart at the same time. In 1 Peter 1:3–5, Peter describes some of the blessings which Christians possess. Then, in verse 6, he says, ‘In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials.’ Note that Peter asserts that these Christians were both rejoicing and sorrowing at the same time. And, of course, Paul affirms the same truth when he speaks in 2 Corinthians 6:10 of being sorrowful and yet always rejoicing. Rejoicing and sorrow, then, may both exist in the same heart at the same time.” (Page 37)
“A great number of L.D. persons have difficulty in thinking sequentially; in setting things in logical order. Since logical thinking is critical to productive problem-solving, you may help counselees by blocking out for them the basic steps, roughly as follows: (1) identify the problem, (2) list possible solutions, (3) reject unbiblical ones, (4) explore the ramifications of each of the acceptable ones, (5) select the solution which best meets the specific need, and (6) take steps to implement it.” (Pages 53–54)
“Sometimes despondency and depression are connected with unrealized or unrealistic aspirations. Luke 24” (Page 34)
“we failed to do what the Psalmist did in Psalm 16:8, 9” (Page 42)
“Out of the twenty qualities listed, nineteen involve a man’s reputation, ethics, morality, temperament, habits, and spiritual and psychological maturity. The twentieth one has to do with his ability to lead his own family. These qualities are available to every one of God’s men if they are serious enough about their Lord to get them.” (Page 15)