Answers

By   •   March 15, 2012   •   Topics:

Q:

I've had a lot of emotional problems, and recently I started going to a psychologist someone recommended. I like her, but she's very opposed to religion and thinks people must solve their own problems instead of turning to God for help. My faith is very important to me, so should I look elsewhere?


A:

Yes, I believe you should look elsewhere for someone who can help you with your problems. This person has already let you know that she has no sympathy for people who look to God for help, and almost inevitably she will try to impose her views on you.

But God loves you and wants to help you deal with these problems. One way He may do this is by leading you to someone who has the training to understand your problems and can help you with them — but who also shares your faith. After all, God knows all about you; He understands what you’re going through, and He also knows the reasons for it. More than that, He knows the answer to your problems. The Bible says, “To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his” (Job 12:13).

Remember: One of the ways God works in our lives is through other people — especially people who can help us by their wise and godly counsel. Ask God to lead you to such a counselor; your pastor may be able to suggest one. The Bible says, “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17).

In addition, look to God each day for strength and encouragement through prayer and meditating on His Word, the Bible. Sometimes our emotions lie to us — but God’s truth never will.