Reading Response 4 : The Godward Focus of Biblical Counseling

Chapter Four, "The Godward Focus of Biblical Counseling," resonated deeply with me. The most profound takeaway was that biblical counseling truly must be God-centered, not self-centered. The book reminds us that if counselors or clients constantly focus on themselves, not only is their hearts easily wounded, but their entire lives become chaotic. Reading this, I couldn't help but examine myself: when busy with studies, ministry, or the big and small things in life, do I often focus on my own anxieties, achievements, or emotions, forgetting to entrust everything to God?

The passage, "God is God, and I am not! Therefore, God deserves to be honored, worshiped, trusted, feared, and loved as God" (page 70), reminded me that often in life, I easily prioritize my own thoughts, plans, or feelings, hoping everything will happen the way I want. But I am not the center of my life; God is. Therefore, when I am willing to acknowledge my limitations and shift my focus from myself to God, I find greater peace and a stronger belief that God is guiding my life.

"Sin is both seductive and destructive… those who stubbornly cling to seductive lies deprive themselves of the mercy and goodness God longs to shower upon them." (Page 73) This passage made me realize that when people cling to seemingly attractive "lies," they are actually distancing themselves from the grace and blessings God originally intended to give us. I myself am the same; many times I know what is right, but I still choose to follow my feelings or desires, as if that would make me happier or more comfortable, but in reality, I have missed the blessings God wanted to give me. Conversely, if I am willing to let go of my own attachments and trust God's guidance more, perhaps I will experience His grace and peace more fully.

Therefore, this article made me realize that self-centeredness is not just a psychological problem; it also affects our spiritual life. I constantly reflect on whether, in my daily decisions and ministry, I truly put God first.

Subject: Introduction to Biblical Counseling
Published by: Fang-Yu R, Hsu (Betty)