The Role of Prayer in Christian Counseling (Part 2 of 2)

Part 2 of a 2-Part Prayer In Counseling Series

Prayer is a vital part of our lives and it is natural that it should play an important role in Christian counseling. For many people seeking a Christian counselor, it is important to know that the counselor shares their spiritual commitments. However, the precise role of prayer in a counseling situation is something that requires careful consideration.

In my previous article, I argued that whatever the Christian counselor brings to the counseling session is rooted in their own prayer life. We are called to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17) and it is this prayerful attitude of the counselor that needs to undergird the entire counseling process. I then suggested specific moments that are appropriate for praying for and with the client, both before and during the counseling session. In this article I continue this discussion by looking at when a client should pray in a counseling session, at the benefits to be gained by prayer in counseling, and at the power of prayer in our lives.

When Should a Client Lead Prayer in Counseling?

In my opinion, the counselor should lead in prayer in the opening stages of therapy. This enables the therapist to take the lead from the beginning. It can also open people’s hearts to the counseling process and provide fresh hope for their situation. Asking a hesitant client to pray could create embarrassment and interfere with a positive start. Eventually, the client may feel comfortable taking the lead, but first it is important to make sure that clients are at ease before asking them to pray.

What are the Benefits of Client-Lead Prayer in Christian Counseling?

It can be beneficial to ask certain people to pray, especially at the close of a session. Asking a client to pray takes the reins from the counselor’s hands and places them firmly in the hands of the client, enabling a particular individual to take control. Praying in this way can strengthen someone’s role as a spiritual or emotional leader. Asking clients pray in a counseling session helps to free individuals to take charge of their own lives and destinies. Prayer quiets people’s hearts and speaks volumes about their motivation; asking a client to pray provides comfort by enabling them to realize that they are drawing on God’s resources. In this way, prayer opens the door for God’s wisdom to enter the picture. It submits people’s needs to a powerful God who is infinitely sympathetic and intimately concerned with their personal welfare.

What is the Power of Prayer?

God invites His people to pray to Him. According to the Bible, the power of prayer is quite simply the power of God, for it is God who hears and answers prayer. The power of prayer should not be underestimated. Luke 1:37 tells us that God can do all things and that nothing is impossible for Him. Although Scripture gives us instructions on how to pray, the “results” of prayer are not ultimately effected by the person who prays. Rather, the power of prayer comes from God who encourages us to pray. 1 John 5: 14-15 tells us:

This is the confidence we have in approaching God:  that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have what we asked of Him. 

God always answers prayer that is in agreement with His will, irrespective of the person praying, the passion behind the prayer, or the purpose of the prayer. And God responds powerfully! 

Christian Counseling Can Support You in a Prayerful Way

Christian counseling combines the tools and principles of psychology with Scriptural principles in order to provide insight and support for those who need it. Struggles are part of life’s journey and as a Christian counselor I prayerfully attempt to yield to God’s will as I accompany you on this journey. I seek to be used of God to help people work through the challenges that bring them to my door. If you have questions about this, or would like to discuss the possibility of Christian counseling, please feel free to contact us.

 

Photos
“Prayers” by Britt-knee on Flickr “Abstract Spring Green Background And Light Reflect”  by twobee on Freedigitalphotos.net