Speak The Truth

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy continue their mini-series on counseling through God's attributes, focusing on omnipresence. They discuss the importance of God's omnipresence, especially in counseling settings, drawing from Isaiah 41:10. They emphasize that God's always-present nature offers both comfort and conviction, reminding individuals they're never alone in their struggles. Shauna shares her personal journey as a biblical counselor, highlighting how key scripture verses have guided her and can be used in counseling sessions. The episode rounds off with practical after-session assignments, including scripture memorization and reflective worship music to reinforce the comforting truths about God's constant presence.00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast00:24 Introducing the Counseling Mini-series00:38 Exploring God's Omnipresence01:09 The Importance of Key Scripture Verses02:41 Isaiah 41:10 - God's Promises04:25 Understanding God's Presence07:22 Practical Applications in Counseling15:41 Encouragement and Worship19:17 Conclusion and Future TopicsEpisode ResourcesCounseling Through God's Attributes 

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' the host is joined by Shannon K. McCoy, an experienced biblical counselor, to discuss the topic of God's peace amidst life's anxieties from her contribution to the ABC Resource, Counseling Through God's Attributes. Shannon shares her life transition from San Diego, California to Spartanburg, South Carolina and her career as a cytology lab manager. The conversation delves into the heightened anxiety and how biblical counseling can address it by focusing on Philippians 4:6-9. They emphasize that peace is an active process tied to trust and obedience in God. Shannon highlights practical counseling techniques, such as daily scripture focus and thought journaling, to help individuals reframe their anxiety in light of God's character and promises.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:55 Shannon's Background and Journey03:40 Discussing God's Peace and Anxiety08:26 Practical Steps for Counseling18:35 Concluding Thoughts and EncouragementEpisode Mentions:Counseling Through God's Attributes 

In this episode of Speak the Truth, host Mike welcomes guest Ellen Dykas, an ABC partner from Harvest USA. Ellen discusses the vital topic of 'God as Comforter' in biblical counseling, specifically referencing 2 Corinthians 1:3-6. The episode not only delves into Ellen's background and her work in discipleship and counseling but also offers a practical guide for counselors on integrating the concept of divine comfort into their sessions. Ellen emphasizes the importance of understanding God's comfort, engaging in meaningful dialogue with counselees, and applying Scripture to help those dealing with pain and suffering. The episode is a rich resource for both current counselors and those in training.00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast00:33 Guest Introduction: Ellen Dykas01:15 Ellen's Background and Ministry03:09 God's Comfort in Counseling06:42 Applying God's Comfort in Counseling Sessions16:44 After Session Assignments and Reflections20:48 Final Encouragement and Closing RemarksEpisode MentionsWives Navigating Sexual Betrayal - Harvest USA Counseling Through God's Attributes - ABC RES 

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael is with guest, Betty-Anne Van Rees. Betty-Anne, a key member of the Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition, shares insights on using God's attributes, particularly God's all-seeing nature (El Roi), to guide counseling sessions. The conversation explores the significance of knowing God personally, using the story of Hagar from Genesis 16:1-14, and provides practical applications for counselors. The episode highlights the importance of helping counselees see God's care and encourages the use of the 'Counseling Through' resource for both personal growth and enhancing counseling methodologies.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:34 Betty-Anne's Background and Ministry01:17 Counseling Through God's Attributes Miniseries02:29 Focus on God's Attribute: El Roi, The All-Seeing03:55 Application of Hagar's Story in Counseling12:36 Reflection Questions and Practical Assignments21:57 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsEpisode ResourcesCounseling Through God's Attributes - ABC Res 

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike sits down with Jesse Pirkle from Southern Hills Church in Carrollton, Georgia, to discuss the concept of God's immutability. They explore how understanding God's unchanging nature can be a powerful tool in counseling, especially for individuals struggling with assurance, doubt, and trust issues. Jesse shares insights from his own ministry and counseling experiences, emphasizing the importance of scripture, singing, and practical assignments in helping counselees grasp this theological attribute. This episode offers a valuable resource for counselors looking to integrate biblical truths into their sessions.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:49 Introducing the Miniseries on Counseling Through God's Attributes01:58 Focusing on God's Immutability in Counseling03:17 Scriptural Foundations of God's Immutability04:11 Practical Applications in Counseling Sessions10:35 Homework and Continued Learning17:59 Engaging the Mind and Heart in Counseling22:31 Addressing Assurance and Doubt in Counseling25:25 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsEpisode MentionsCounseling through God's Attributes - ABC RESDark Clouds Deep Mercy - Mark Vroegop Southern Hills Church - Jesse Pirkle  

In this episode hosts, Mike and Shauna are joined by our special guest, Jesse Pirkle, Soul Care Pastor at SouthernHills Church to continue our mini-series, Counseling Through Bible Narratives Old Testament. Jesse Discusses how he uses his growth assignment of Jeremiah 2:11-13 to expose functional idolatry with counselees, both in-session, and out-of-session.Episode Resource:Counseling Through Bible Narratives - ABC RES

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike dives into the topic of narcissistic personality disorder within their ongoing mini-series on diagnostic and statistical diagnoses. Joined by Beth Claes, they explore the distinction between DSM-defined narcissistic personality disorder and general cultural narcissism. The discussion emphasizes the importance of viewing such psychological labels through a biblical lens, considering self-absorption and selfishness as challenges addressed by the gospel. The episode encourages believers to carefully navigate relationships with those displaying narcissistic behaviors, seeking wise counsel and fostering health and reconciliation in a Christ-centered manner.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:20 Narcissistic Personality Disorder Overview01:10 Cultural vs. Clinical Narcissism03:43 Biblical Perspective on Narcissism05:37 Relational Dynamics and Narcissism12:01 Encouragement and Final ThoughtsEpisode MentionsBeth's Blog 

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Shauna and Mike welcome Curtis and Jenny Solomon to discuss their new books, 'Redeem Your Marriage' and 'Reclaim Your Marriage.' The Solomons explore how their books address the impact of pornography on marriages, offering support for both the offending and hurt parties. They delve into the process of writing their books, sharing personal insights and struggles, and emphasize the importance of lament and genuine repentance. The discussion also covers practical advice for biblical counselors and pastors on how to use the books as resources for couples and even touches on parenting strategies to protect children from the influences of pornography.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:25 Book Review Series Launch00:48 Meet the Guests: Curtis and Jenny Solomon01:09 Curtis Solomon's Background and Roles02:11 Introducing Jenny Solomon03:13 Discussing the Books: Redeem Your Marriage and Reclaim Your Marriage04:17 Challenges and Joys of Writing09:01 The Importance of Lament in Healing11:06 Addressing Misconceptions: Don't Blame Yourself for His Sin15:58 The Role of the Spouse as an Ally19:34 Creating a Safe Home Environment20:15 Parenting Tips for Navigating Digital Dangers22:55 Engaging in Open Conversations with Children24:16 The Importance of Both Parents in Sex Education25:48 Teaching Modesty and Privacy to Children27:24 Healthy Cross-Gender Relationships31:08 Using the Book in Counseling and Church Settings38:12 Writing the Book: Inspirations and Challenges40:16 Final Thoughts and Future PlansEpisode Mentions Curtis's Book for HusbandsJenny's Book for WivesLament References:Dark Clouds Deep MercyGod's Healing for Life's LessonsCounseling & ConsultingSolomon Soul CareTraining & EquippingSouthern Seminary - Biblical Counseling Concentration Degree

In this enlightening conversation, Andrew Dealy, Executive Director of the Austin Stone Counseling Center, discusses the vital role of biblical truths in counseling. He shares powerful insights from the story of Joseph, illuminating the themes of forgiveness and God's sovereignty in suffering. Listeners learn practical steps for navigating emotional challenges, emphasizing patience and heart work in relationships. Dealy also hints at an upcoming series focused on managing emotions biblically, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in faith-based counseling.

Peter Escue, an expert in integrating faith and counseling, joins the discussion to explore the gospel's pivotal role in addressing life's struggles. They tackle issues like the assurance of salvation, the importance of forgiveness, and the challenges of spiritual maturity. Escue highlights how understanding suffering can lead to profound growth and underscores the transformative power of gospel truths in counseling. The conversation encourages listeners to prioritize hope in Christ while navigating personal and collective spiritual journeys.