“Let the spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.” Ephesians 4:23 “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
Working as a counselor, much of my time spent with clients is focused on thoughts and attitudes. First, I ask the parents many questions to get to the root of the issues that they are having with their child. Sometimes, mom and dad are so overwhelmed that their patience, understanding, and compassion have gone out the window. They quickly react to their child’s misbehavior instead of calmly responding in a way that helps shape appropriate behaviors.
Along with addressing attitudes, we look at thought processes. We reframe negative thoughts into positive thoughts, whether it is regarding how they perceive themselves as parents or how they view their child. Therefore, I typically begin helping families through parent training: giving the parents tools to effectively shape positive behaviors and thoughts. Initially, progress is slow and steady as long as the tools are used consistently. The greatest tool that I have and can share is prayer.
As a Christian counselor, I pray for my clients. I bring their struggles before the Lord and I seek His wisdom within His Word. When my clients are able to release their concerns to the Almighty Counselor, the Spirit moves, renews, and brings hope. I read the above verse today and thought, how wonderful it is that we do not need to change by our strength and doing. Christians have the power of the Spirit of God within us. He can help us clear our thoughts and modify our attitudes. When we lean into the One who provides clear instruction in His Word and by His Spirit, we can have hope, soar, and be renewed.
Be encouraged!
Prayer: Dear Father, thank You for all of the many ways you renew us and give us hope. Help us to continually counsel with You throughout our day. Thank You for caring for and loving us so very much! In Your Son’s precious name, Jesus. Amen.
For further reading: Isaiah 40
Aspen Place Ministries 