CCEF Podcast: Where Life & Scripture Meet: Recent Episodes
CCEF
Why podcasts? First, we’ve had a lot of requests asking us to get back on the air. We care about supporting you in life and ministry, so we’re making it happen. Second, the podcast format allows us to touch on topics that can be difficult to cover in other forms of media. Those are two good reasons, but at the heart of why we are relaunching the CCEF podcast is because we recognize that biblical counseling is hard. We want you to know that you are not the only one out there that finds it challenging, and we’re committed to coming alongside and supporting you in the process. We’re in this together.
In this fifth episode of our series exploring CCEF's seven distinctives, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes, Darby Strickland, and Lauren Whitman to discuss our fifth distinctive: "Help and change follow a path, but not a script." Together they explore the importance of dependence on the Lord and his work in the lives of those we help. They consider the importance of seeking input from others, the dangers of following a script, how to navigate our feelings of inadequacy, and why this distinctive matters for our local churches. Rather than fixing problems or changing others, our role is to be fellow travelers on the path God is already leading them on. Mentioned in this episode: - Read about CCEF's seven distinctives: ccef.org/about - Learn more about CCEF courses: ccef.org/school
Our circumstances, emotions, and relationships all shape us, but they don't define us. At the center of who we are is something deeper: the heart. In this fourth episode of our series exploring CCEF's seven distinctives, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes and Esther Liu to discuss what we mean when we say, "Our hearts are active." Together they explore how Scripture describes the heart as the center of our desires, fears, loves, worship, and choices. How does understanding the heart change the way we pursue personal growth, care for others, and participate in the life of the local church? The conversation moves beyond behavior modification to consider how God meets us at the deepest level of who we are. Jonathan, Esther, and Gunner share personal stories of how this distinctive has shaped their own walks with Christ and explain why curiosity, humility, and hope are essential when helping others. In this episode, you'll learn: • What CCEF means by "our hearts are active." • Why biblical change is more than changing outward behavior. • How desires, fears, and loves reveal what's happening in our hearts. • Why understanding the heart leads to deeper relationships and wiser care. • How this distinctive equips churches to cultivate meaningful, gospel-centered conversations. Mentioned in this episode: - Register for Dynamics of Biblical Change and our other courses at ccef.org/school- Learn more about our beliefs and distinctives at ccef.org/about Related Resources: - "How do I know when my actions are a result of sin in my heart or because of bodily weakness?" | video by Mike Emlet
Our bodies, relationships, culture, suffering, work, spiritual battles, and life experiences all shape us in significant ways. Yet none of these influences alone defines who we are. As image bearers created by God, we are embodied souls who live before him, responding to both blessings and hardships in a world full of competing influences. In this episode, Mike Emlet, Jonathan Holmes, and Gunner Gundersen continue CCEF's series on our seven distinctives by exploring the third distinctive: We are embodied souls shaped by a world of influences. Together they discuss:
- Why our bodies matter for faithful care
- How relationships, culture, and suffering shape our lives
- Why spiritual warfare remains an important reality in counseling
- The danger of reducing people to a single explanation or diagnosis
- How slowing down helps us care for people more wisely
- Why the local church is uniquely equipped to know, love, and walk alongside people in all their complexity
This conversation invites us to see people more fully—and to reflect the patient, compassionate care of Christ as we walk with them. Mentioned in this episode: - Download three free talks on anger at ccef.org/free-audio-for-anger- Learn more about our beliefs and distinctives at ccef.org/about - Descriptions and Prescriptions | Book by Dr. Mike Emlet
CCEF's second distinctive states: "Scripture comes from the mouth of God." But what does that mean for everyday ministry, counseling, and relationships?
In this episode, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes and Aaron Sironi to discuss how God's Word does more than provide answers—it shapes the way we listen, care, pray, discern, and walk alongside others. Together they explore how Scripture forms our priorities in counseling, helps us understand people, and serves as the lens through which we interpret both life and the world around us.
The conversation also considers the richness of Scripture's many genres—from the Psalms and Wisdom Literature to the Gospels and Song of Songs—and how each uniquely equips us to care for others. Along the way, they reflect on parenting, marriage counseling, personal devotional life, and the indispensable role of Scripture in the life of the local church.
Mentioned in this episode:
- Register for our conference at ccef.org/nc26
- Learn more about our video series that equips churches to wisely handle domestic abuse: ccef.org/becoming-a-refuge
- Learn more about CCEF's Seven Distinctives
- Listen to Part 1: "The Personal God Gets Personal with Us"
In this first episode of a new seven-part series on CCEF's distinctives, Gunner Gundersen sits down with Ed Welch and Jonathan Holmes to discuss the first distinctive: "The personal God gets personal with us." Together, they reflect on how Scripture presents a God who draws near to his people: from the garden of Eden to the incarnation of Christ to the promised future where God will dwell with his people forever. The conversation explores how the Trinity shapes our understanding of relationships, counseling, church life, and personal ministry. These truths help churches to embody a "culture of pursuit" with warmth and hospitality as natural overflows of a real relationship with God. The episode also introduces CCEF's broader distinctives and explains why these priorities continue to shape the ministry's counseling, teaching, and care for the church. Mentioned in this episode: Our latest episode of the JBC: ccef.org/jbcOur distinctives: ccef.org/about/#distinctives Related resource: The Personal God | Article by David Powlison
Some of the most formative marriage counsel isn't found in a book, a technique, or a counseling session, but rather it comes from watching another couple walk faithfully with Jesus over time.
In part two of this conversation, CCEF's Gunner Gundersen and Aaron Sironi explore Paul's surprising strategy in Philippians: imitation. Paul doesn't point to marriage principles but instead insists we keep our eyes on people who imitate Christ.
Aaron also shares the rest of his story: how an honest "I don't know" in a conversation with a church elder launched him into biblical counseling, and what he's learned since about the deeper longings underneath many struggling marriages: Do I matter to you? Will you be there?
Listen to a rich conversation about slow formation, counter-images, and what it looks like to have a marriage worthy of the gospel.
Mentioned in this episode: Register now at ccef.org/2026 for our CCEF Annual Conference before the price increases after June 16.
Related resources: Dynamics of Biblical Change | Online course taught by David Powlison Speaking Truth in Marital Conflict | Blog by Lauren Whitman On Marriage Counseling | JBC Must Reads by Aaron Sironi, Lauren Whitman, Winston Smith
What if some of the most important biblical passages for your marriage don't explicitly talk about husbands and wives? In this episode, Gunner Gundersen and Aaron Sironi explore how the book of Philippians offers a powerful framework for navigating conflict and cultivating unity in marriage. They uncover how the gospel itself shapes the way husbands and wives relate to one another. Aaron shares how lasting change in marriage doesn't come primarily through techniques but through adopting the mind of Christ: a posture of humility, sacrificial love, and deep attentiveness to one another's burdens. They'll cover why conflict in marriage is inevitable and how it can become redemptive, what it looks like to "re-do" conflict in a gospel-shaped way, and how Philippians 2 reframes how we approach our spouse's struggles. Whether you're married, counseling others, or simply seeking to grow in Christlike relationships, this conversation offers a hopeful and deeply practical vision for change. Mentioned in this episode: Please consider giving to CCEF to help bring more counseling resources and training to the church. You can give at ccef.org/donate. - I Don't Feel Like I have Enough Support from My Husband | Video by Lauren Whitman - Good Cop Bad Cop in the Home | Blog by Ed Welch
What does it mean to mentor someone well? In this episode, Gunner Gundersen sits down with CCEF faculty member Todd Stryd to explore mentoring as a long-term, relational investment that shapes both the mentee and the mentor. Together, they discuss how mentoring provides clarity, fosters growth through both encouragement and critique, and ultimately becomes a place of deep dependence on God. Mentioned in this episode: Registration for our June courses is now open! One key course that features opportunities to grow in mentoring skills is Helping Relationships by Ed Welch. You can learn more and register at ccef.org/school. - Why Do You Think You Can Do Better? | Blog by Esther Liu
"We're excited to announce Jonathan Holmes as our new Executive Director! In this episode, Gunner interviews Jonathan about his journey into biblical counseling, his background, and his vision for CCEF. They discuss the importance of counseling in the church, the founding of Fieldstone Counseling, and the future direction of CCEF.
Read the latest announcement from CCEF's Board of Trustees regarding Jonathan Holmes's recent appointment to the role of Executive Director.
Mentioned in this episode: Becoming a Refuge is an on-demand teaching series that helps churches respond to domestic abuse. Learn more here.
In this episode, Jonathan mentions an article by David Powlison, "What Is Your Calling?" Journal of Biblical Counseling 28, no. 3 (2014). Find it here.
In this episode of Where Life and Scripture Meet, host Gunner Gundersen continues his conversation with CCEF faculty member Mike Emlet about caring for aging parents. Building on the previous episode, Mike reflects on the blessings and burdens of caring for his mother during her final season of life. Mike shares how he and his wife navigated difficult caregiving decisions, wrestled with their own limitations, and sought wisdom as his mother's needs increased. Along the way, he reflects on anxiety, fatigue, grief, and the steady presence of God's grace in the midst of weakness. This conversation offers encouragement for anyone currently caring for aging loved ones, considering future caregiving responsibilities, or processing the grief that often accompanies these journeys. Mike describes how the Lord met his family through Scripture, prayer, and the support of the church, in a demanding season and reminded them that grace and weakness often coexist.
In this episode of Where Life and Scripture Meet, host Gunner Gundersen sits down with Dr. Mike Emlet to reflect on his recent experience caring for his aging mother during the final years of her life. Mike shares about his mom, "Mim" — her vibrant faith, her lifelong commitment to the local church, her sense of humor, and her remarkable ministry of handwritten letters. He also opens up about the gradual onset of cognitive decline, the impact of dementia and stroke, and the practical and emotional realities of caregiving. Mike and Gunner discuss the weight and the sweetness of walking closely with a loved one through suffering and decline. There is beauty and cost, and Jesus is in the midst of it. Mentioned in this episode: sign up to receive 6 conference sessions on conflict and unity. Sign up here: ccef.org/free-audio-for-conflict-and-unity/ Books by Dr. Mike Emlet:
- CrossTalk: Where Life and Scripture Meet
- Descriptions and Prescriptions: A Biblical Perspective on Psychiatric Diagnoses & Medications
- Saints, Sufferers, and Sinners: Loving Others as God Loves Us
What does it mean to be united to Christ—and how does that shape the way we relate to others? In this episode, Gunner Gundersen, Esther Liu, and Darby Strickland explore the doctrine of union with Christ and its deeply practical impact on everyday relationships. If our truest relationship is already secure in Jesus, how might that free us to love others differently? Together, they discuss how union with Christ
- grounds us in unshakable security,
- frees us from defensiveness,
- gives courage to apologize and forgive,
- reorients transactional views of relationships, and
- helps us make sense of church hurt.
Because we are united to Christ, we are also united to one another. That shared belonging reshapes how we approach conflict, difference, and even the pain of broken community. Join us as we consider what it looks like to live life together in Christ.
- Community: A Struggle to Fit | Blog by Darby Strickland
- "How can I avoid the temptation to isolate myself in suffering?" | Video by Cecelia Bernhardt
- Make Every Effort: Paul Urges Unity in the Church | Conference Session by Aaron Sironi
In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the often overlooked issue of stagnant marriages, exploring the subtle signs of disconnection and the importance of intentionality and spiritual friendship in marriage. They emphasize the need for curiosity and community support, as well as the difference between a covenant and a contract in marriage. They highlight practical steps couples can take to revitalize their relationships, including small gestures of love. Mentioned in this episode: If you've been encouraged by our podcast this year, would you consider giving a gift to CCEF today? Your support would go to immediate use today to help equip the global church for thoughtful, biblical conversations about matters of the heart.
- How can I avoid growing apart from my spouse in a season of suffering and grief? | Video by Aaron Sironi
- What Has Been Most Helpful in Your Marriage? | Blog post by Ed Welch
- Sexual Intimacy in Marriage: A Joint Trust | Blog post by Aaron Sironi
In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the complex nature of lingering grief, exploring how it manifests in various ways. They share personal stories and insights on how grief can resurface during life milestones. They emphasize the importance of community support in navigating grief, as well as the need for patience and understanding in the grieving process. Ultimately, listeners will be reminded of God's presence and care during times of grief.
- Am I Doing This Right? What Lamentations Teaches Us about Grieving | Journal article by Todd Stryd
- Someone I Know Is Grieving | Book by Ed Welch
- Helping Your Family Grieve | Minibook by Darby Strickland
- When We Hurt Those Who Are Hurting | Blog post by Ed Welch
- How can I care well for someone who is grieving? | Video by Ed Welch
In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the topic of life transitions, sharing personal stories and insights on common struggles, temptations, and opportunities that arise during these changes. They discuss the importance of recognizing God's presence and providence through both big and small changes, and they share some encouragements they've found in Scripture. Mentioned in this episode: We're excited about the recent release of a handful of books from CCEF faculty:
- When It's Trauma: A Biblical Guide to Understanding Trauma & Walking Faithfully with Sufferers | Book by Darby Strickland
- A Big Change Happened: Helping Children Through Upheaval | Children's book by Darby Strickland
- Helping Your Children with Change: Holding Fast to God During Upheaval | Minibook by Darby Strickland
- Take Heart for Teens: Daily Devotions to Deepen Your Faith | Book by David Powlison
In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the profound doctrine of adoption into God's family, discussing its theological significance and personal implications. Our hosts reflect on their own experiences and the relational significance of understanding God as a loving Father. They discuss how we often struggle with an orphan mentality, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's identity as a beloved child of God. Finally, they highlight the future inheritance that comes with being adopted into God's family. Mentioned in this episode: The audio from our 2025 National Conference is available for purchase! All 27 sessions included. Learn more at ccef.org/2025.
In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the importance of self-examination. They explore how self-examination is not merely a self-focused endeavor but a process that involves God and others. The conversation highlights the benefits of self-examination, including personal growth, awareness of one's weaknesses, and the recognition of God's grace. They also address common pitfalls, such as self-shaming and misguided approaches, and emphasize the need to also look for the good as part of the biblical self-examination process. Mentioned in this episode: Registration for courses is now open for the January 2026 term! This term we'll be offering Helping Relationships with Ed Welch, Scripture for Life & Ministry with Aaron Sironi, and Counseling in the Local Church with Michael Gembola. If you're looking for an opportunity for personal growth along with training to better serve those around you, we want to invite you to join us. You can learn more at ccef.org/school.
In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the multifaceted nature of patience. From personal anecdotes to biblical insights, listen as they delve into why patience is challenging, how it can lead to profound personal growth, and practical ways to develop patience in challenging situations. They discuss how patience shapes our relationships, our understanding of God's timing, and our ability to trust in his plans. Mentioned in this episode: We're just a couple weeks out from the 2025 CCEF National Conference! We'll be taking a look at the life and ministry of the apostle Paul to see how we can grow in our care for one another. Registration closes after September 29, so register soon! We hope you'll join us this October 3–5, whether virtually or in-person in Hershey, PA. To learn more and register, visit ccef.org/2025. Related resource:
- A Small Book about a Big Problem: Meditations on Anger, Patience and Peace | Book by Ed Welch
In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the complexity of forgiveness. They address common misconceptions, the true meaning of forgiveness, the challenges we all face, and how to cultivate a forgiving spirit. They also emphasize the importance of understanding forgiveness as Christians, highlighting the balance between justice and mercy. Mentioned in this episode: Our ministry is fueled by the generous support of our donors. If this podcast has been an encouragement to you, would you consider giving to CCEF today? Your gift would help us continue to produce free resources like this for the good of God's people. You can learn more about ways to give at ccef.org/donate. Related resources:
- Is It Sinful to Keep a Record of Wrongs? | Blog post by Darby Strickland
- The World's Best Epilogue—Ever | Blog post by Ed Welch
In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the topic of cultivating gratitude as a Christian. They discuss practical ways to foster gratitude in daily life, the challenges posed by a discontented culture, and the importance of perspective. They emphasize the coexistence of gratitude and sorrow, the transformative power of gratitude, and the need for humility in recognizing God's gifts. Mentioned in this episode: The price increases for our conference after August 4, so register soon! Learn more at ccef.org/2025. Related resources:
- Stretching Joy: 10 Ways to Notice God's Everyday Mercies | Blog post by Mike Emlet
- Jonah's Psalm of Thanksgiving | Blog post by Ed Welch
Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement01:25 Fostering Gratitude in Daily Life 14:16 Why Gratitude Is Difficult 19:00 Honest Gratitude Amid Sorrow 27:54 What Gratitude Cultivates in Us 34:02 The Alphabet Game: Reflecting on Gratitude
In this episode, Gunner Gundersen, Darby Strickland, and Esther Liu discuss the process of progressive sanctification. They explore its meaning and implications, and how it plays out in the lives of believers. How does our union and relationship with Christ serve as the foundation for our sanctification? How does growing in our understanding of this help us become more like Jesus? While sanctification can be a messy process, there is hope and encouragement in recognizing that our growth in Christ is a journey, not a destination, and that God is committed to us throughout this process. Mentioned in this episode: Enter our giveaway for a set of notebooks, a tote bag, and a bundle of books on the topic of sanctification. Three winners will be chosen on July 25. Enter at ccef.org/giveaway. Related resources:
- How Does Sanctification Work? | Book by David Powlison
- Saints, Sufferers, and Sinners: Loving Others as God Loves Us | Book by Mike Emlet
- Real Change: Becoming More Like Jesus in Everyday Life | Book by Andrew Nicholls and Helen Thorne
- I'm discouraged by my persistent struggle with sin. How do I find hope? | Video by Lauren Whitman
- Why Do You Think You Can Do Better? | Blog post by Esther Liu
In this episode, CCEF faculty Gunner Gundersen, Esther Liu, and Darby Strickland discuss the often painful experience of feeling that God is silent. They explore the emotional turmoil and spiritual distress that accompanies this silence, particularly during prolonged suffering, and how it can lead to feelings of abandonment and doubt. Gunner, Esther, and Darby talk about how Scripture provides a framework for understanding and processing this experience of silence, and they discuss the commonality of this struggle among Christians. Ultimately, we hope this episode encourages you to trust in God's faithfulness, even when his presence feels distant, and to find solace in the stories of others who have endured similar trials. Mentioned in this episode: Download free audio from 8 conference sessions on the topic of guilt and shame here. Related resources:
- The Myth of God's Silence | Blog post by Ed Welch
- God's Grace in Your Suffering | Book by David Powlison
In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the pervasive issue of busyness. They explore how busyness can often be a form of suffering, how our misguided desires can exacerbate the experience, and how the Lord's compassion makes a difference. They discuss why it's hard to say no to good things and the costs of busyness, and they highlight the freedom that comes from the reality of God's sovereignty and his presence in our busy world.
Mentioned in this episode: Read an important update from CCEF's Board of Trustees here.
Related resources:
- Busy Families: Learning to Say "No" in Order to Say "Yes" | Conference session by Mike Emlet
- When a Command Became a Promise | Blog post by Darby Strickland
In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the different ways we can experience loneliness, particularly within church community. They explore the importance of recognizing and addressing these emotions, as well as finding ways to move toward those on the margins. They consider some helpful practices and insights on how to navigate loneliness, such as viewing others as family, taking one step at a time, moving outward, and being honesty before the Lord. Related resources:
- Pushing through Loneliness to Contentment | Conference session by Cecelia Bernhardt
- Caring for One Another: 8 Ways to Cultivate Meaningful Relationships | Book by Ed Welch
- Community: A Struggle to Fit | Blog post by Darby Strickland
In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the challenges and expectations that come with church relationships. They discuss the importance of clear communication, understanding different personalities, and the role of vulnerability in fostering meaningful connections. They emphasize how our future hope and the steadfast friendship of Jesus are a source of comfort and strength in navigating these relationships. Related resources: - Caring for One Another: 8 Ways to Cultivate Meaningful Relationships | Book by Ed Welch - Community: A Struggle to Fit | Blog post by Darby Strickland - Expecting Less from Church | Blog post by Ed Welch
In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the common struggle of engaging with Scripture, especially during difficult seasons. They consider God's patience and gracious intent for our Scripture reading, what it means to engage with the Word even when we don't hunger for it, and creative ways to engage with Scripture, such as through art or memorization. The conversation emphasizes the long-term nature of engaging with the Bible and the significance of community in fostering a deeper connection with God's Word.
Related resources:
- A Host of Scripture for Every Hardship | Podcast episode by Alasdair Groves
- Restoring Hearts to Scripture: Reconnecting with God’s Words After They Were Used to Hurt You | Conference talk by Darby Strickland
- Beyond Devotional Doldrums: Using Scripture and Prayer to Foster Intimacy with God | Conference talk by Mike Emlet
In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss discouragement and its various dimensions. They emphasize the importance of language in articulating discouragement and how honest expression can lead to deeper conversations with God. The conversation also delves into scriptural insights that provide hope and encouragement, highlighting the role of endurance and prayer. Mentioned in this episode: Looking for biblical counseling training? Check out Westminster Theological Seminary's Master of Arts in Counseling, offered in collaboration with CCEF faculty. You can learn more at wts.edu/mac. Related resources: - "Blessed are those who are weary of the struggle." (Matthew 5:3) | Journal article by Esther Liu - When Life Feels Disconnected from Faith | Blog post by Lauren Whitman - An Open Letter to a Discouraged Saint | Blog post by Mike Emlet
In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the interplay between anxiety and the body, discussing personal experiences and insights. They consider the impact of past experiences on anxiety responses, the significance of community, and practical strategies for navigating anxiety in the moment. Mentioned in this episode: Learn more about our upcoming conference: To Live Is Christ: The Life & Ministry of Paul, where we'll consider not so much the content of Paul's theology, but rather how he did ministry. We'll ask the question, What does it look like when someone does ministry with Jesus at the center of everything? Register before the price increases after March 31. Learn more at ccef.org/2025. Related resources: - Anxiety & the Body | Conference talk by Mike Emlet - "Take a Deep Breath"—How Counseling Ministry Addresses the Body | Journal article by Todd Stryd - When Your Mind Gets Stuck | Blog post by Ed Welch - "How do I get over or deal with certain anxiety triggers?" | Video by Todd Stryd - God & Anxiety: Turning to Him for a Deeper Connection | Podcast episode by CCEF Faculty
In this episode, CCEF faculty share personal experiences of anxiety and consider how it manifests in many different ways. They share insights from Scripture and talk about how anxiety is a continual opportunity for conversation with the Lord. Mentioned in this episode: Check out the CCEF Blogcast, where CCEF authors read their own blogs. Find it on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcast | Amazon Podcast Related resources: - Free Audio for Anxiety- A Small Book for the Anxious Heart | Book by Ed Welch - Running Scared: Fear, Worry & the God of Rest | Book by Ed Welch - Anxiety: 2019 CCEF National Conference
In this episode, CCEF faculty share personal experiences and insights on how psalms of lament provide a framework for expressing sorrow and confusion, emphasizing the importance of honesty in prayer. The conversation explores the difference between lamenting and grumbling, highlighting the relational aspect of lamenting to God, who is compassionate and welcomes us to bring our suffering to him. Related resources: * Become a Psalmist | Blog by Ed Welch * Psalms 42 & 43 | Podcast episode by Mike Emlet & Alasdair Groves * How Lament Leads to Rest | Conference session by Mark Vroegop * Am I Doing This Right? What Lamentations Teaches Us about Rest | JBC article by Todd Stryd
We’re excited to be back with a new edition of the podcast! Join Alasdair Groves, Esther Liu, Gunner Gundersen, and Darby Strickland twice a month, on every 1st and 3rd Monday, as they discuss various topics, always seeking to bring the riches of Scripture to bear on the complexities of life. In today’s episode, “Navigating Conflict: Insights from Biblical Counseling,” CCEF faculty discuss the complexities of conflict, exploring its emotional toll, the normalcy of it a broken world, and how the Lord speaks into and transforms our experience. They conclude with some practical ways we can move toward others and the Lord in the midst of conflict. Related resource: * JBC Must Reads: On Conflict
“We have a God who loves, cares, and knows, and I can rest utterly in the hope that he will be with me, he will walk with me, and he will provide. He will care for every last moment of my day tomorrow as I am exhausted.”
Do you ever have nights where you can’t sleep? Whatever the reason may be, struggling to sleep is a form of suffering. In this rerun of an episode originally released in 2022, Alasdair Groves explores what it looks like to lean on the Lord when we can’t sleep, assured that he is near and he cares.
Would you consider donating to CCEF to help us continue to provide the church with resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the troubles of life? You can give at ccef.org/donate.
Today’s episode is a session from our national conference a few years ago on anxiety. This session is by Ed Welch and is titled “Daily Bread: Today’s Strength for Anxious People.” Ed talks about God’s invitation in anxiety to come to him and find strength for today.
Today’s episode is a rerun of an episode we released a couple years ago titled “Seasonal Depression.” We hope it’s an encouragement to you as we enter the winter season.
Today’s episode is a free session from the 2024 National Conference: Rest. The session is by Aaron Sironi and is titled “Created to Do Good Work.” It considers the goodness of work and how it relates to rest in the cycle and rhythm of our lives. You can find more audio from our rest conference at ccef.org/2024.
Today’s episode is a rerun of an episode we released a few years ago titled “Negative Emotions: Part 2.” We re-released Part 1 last month, so you can go back and listen to that if you haven’t yet. In this episode, we continue to consider how we should think biblically about negative emotions.
Today’s episode is an audio lecture from one of our online courses, Helping Relationships, which is taught by Ed Welch. This lecture is titled “Pursue & Know People” and it covers one of the foundational ideas to this course and to all of biblical counseling: that we aim to know people well and pursue them like Jesus.
Registration for this course is open through December 3. Register at ccef.org/school.
The CCEF School of Biblical Counseling offers 6 courses that make up 2 certificates designed to equip you for biblical counseling. Our students include pastors, elders, ministry leaders, counselors, and any Christian wanting to grow in wise soul care. You can learn more at ccef.org/school.
Today’s episode is a rerun of an episode we released a few years ago titled “Negative Emotions: Part 1.” In it, I consider some common questions: Is it okay for Christians to feel really bad? Is it okay for Christians to get upset and feel terrible, to be angry, or sad, or afraid? How do we rightly view negative emotions? I hope this episode helps you as you engage with your own negative emotions.
Today’s episode is a session from our 2020 National Conference: Created to Draw Near. The session is by Mike Emlet and is titled “Beyond Devotional Doldrums: Using Scripture and Prayer to Foster Intimacy with God.” Emlet discusses some practices to faithfully and creatively engage in Scripture reading and prayer, which are two means God has provided for believers to regularly draw near to him and strengthen our faith.
We’re looking forward to our 2024 National Conference: Rest in just a few weeks! There’s still time to register for the conference in-person and virtually. Learn more at ccef.org/2024.
This fall we’re taking a longer break from the podcast while we work on a new format with more frequent episodes. We’re excited to launch that in 2025! In the meantime, we’ll be sharing some previously released resources with you.
Today’s episode is a rerun of an episode we released a few years ago titled “Rest.” We hope you’re encouraged by this episode to draw near to the God of rest.
Mentioned in this episode: We’re thinking a lot about rest as we prepare for our national conference on the topic. We hope you’ll join us for the conference this October, whether online or in Chattanooga, TN. You can learn more at ccef.org/2024.
Enjoy a bonus episode while we’re on break over the summer! This episode is a recording of Ed Welch's plenary session from the 2023 National Conference: Trauma.
This year's national conference will explore the topic of rest: a foundational way of living out the Christian life that can only be learned from Christ and put into practice amid the challenges of daily life. Learn more and register at ccef.org/2024.
To receive a $25 discount on your in-person registration, use the code “podcast” at checkout. This discount is valid through the end of August 2024.
Find all the sessions from our 2023 National Conference: Trauma here.
In this last episode of our miniseries on emotions, Alasdair Groves answers 11 questions submitted by our listeners. We hope these answers are edifying to you! Mentioned in this episode: We’re excited to be doing a giveaway of some CCEF-branded items! To enter, visit ccef.org/podcast-giveaway. Winners will be chosen and notified via email on July 5. Are you looking for an answer to a particular question? See timestamps below to jump to that part of the episode. 1. How does a Christian deal with a tendency to struggle with joy and happiness even when life is relatively good? [3:50] 2. Is it a good thing when we can’t control our emotions? [11:56] 3. Is the emotion of frustration a sin? [18:08] 4. What about people who don’t know what they feel? [23:50] 5. What about when a woman’s monthly period or menopause, where emotions “happen” to us and are not “our fault”? [28:00] 6. How do I manage or overcome strong romantic emotions that are misleading? [35:22] 7. What’s your encouragement for someone who says he’s a thinker, not a feeler? [39:48] 8. What do you do with emotions that you should not act out on, but are still important to process? [42:02] 9. How do you have empathy but also encourage resilience? [45:36] 10. How do we handle anger, jealousy, negative emotions, and other things that may lead to bitterness? [50:55] 11. Can you speak to rumination and sadness over relationships that are over? [54:12]
For further study on emotions, we want to recommend to you Untangling Emotions, a book by Alasdair Groves and Winston Smith, where they seek to biblically frame emotions and consider how to wisely engage with them.
Is it okay to be happy? Was Jesus happy? Are you happy? Listen as Alasdair Groves considers these three questions.
This is episode 5 in a miniseries on emotions, where we are considering how to understand Jesus’s emotions and how that helps us understand our own.
Mentioned in this episode: we recently released our latest issue of the Journal of Biblical Counseling, which includes articles on topics such as trauma, the empty nest, faithfulness in marriage, and scrupulosity. Learn more here.
Find a transcript of the episode here
For more resources on emotions, including blogs, podcasts, videos, and more, click here.
Today we’re excited to share with you a recent project we’ve been working on. We started a new podcast called the CCEF Blogcast, where CCEF faculty read their own blogs. We hope you enjoy this special episode as Ed Welch reads his blog, “Become a Psalmist.” For more content like this, check out the CCEF Blogcast wherever you listen to podcasts.
Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
How can understanding Jesus’ emotions help us understand our own? Listen as Alasdair Groves focuses on one particular emotion which Jesus felt: anger, which we see in Scripture is often directed at the things that turn people away from him. “Jesus is angry about anything that pulls his people away from him, that pulls his people away from their home, the place of life, the house of the living God, where he is leading us to dwell forever and ever.” Mentioned in this episode: We recently released a new podcast called the CCEF Blogcast! Listen as CCEF authors read their own blogs on a variety of topics. You can find it on your favorite podcast app! This is episode 4 in a miniseries on emotions (listen to episode 1, episode 2, and episode 3). Quick reminder: the final episode of this miniseries will be a response to listener questions. Do you have any questions about emotions? We'd love to hear from you! Email us your question at podcast@ccef.org. Related resources: * Good & Angry | Book by David Powlison * Be Angry & Do Not Sin | Blog post by Ed Welch * Untangling Emotions | Book by Alasdair Groves
How can understanding Jesus’ emotions help us understand our own? Listen as Alasdair Groves focuses on one particular emotion which Jesus felt: compassion, an ache on the heart that presses toward action to make things better.“ God sees our frantic bleating, living like sheep without a shepherd, harassed and helpless. He is a good shepherd, and he has compassion on his sheep, even especially where we struggle to have compassion for others.” Mentioned in this podcast: We're excited to announce the 2024 CCEF National Conference on the topic of rest. Learn more and register at ccef.org/nc24. This is episode 3 in a miniseries on emotions (listen to episode 1 here and episode 2 here). Do you have any questions about emotions? You can email us at podcast@ccef.org, and we’ll spend the last episode of the miniseries answering some of your questions. Related resources: * Because He Cares—for Me? | Blog post by Alasdair Groves * Saints, Sufferers, and Sinners | Book by Mike Emlet
How can understanding Jesus’ emotions help us understand our own? Listen as Alasdair Groves focuses on one particular emotion which Jesus felt, just hours before his crucifixion: dread. How does Jesus’ experience of dread encourage us in our own experience of it? Mentioned in this podcast: Head to ccef.org/school to register for Dynamics of Biblical Change, one of our foundational courses, in the March 2024 term. Pricing increases after February 5, so register soon for the discount! This is episode 2 in a miniseries on emotions (listen to episode 1 here). Do you have any questions about emotions? You can email us at podcast@ccef.org, and we’ll spend the last episode of the miniseries answering some of your questions. Related resources: * “I often experience intense emotions that can feel debilitating. How can I grow?” | Video by Alasdair Groves * Untangling Emotions | Book by Alasdair Groves & Winston Smith
“The heart poured out to the Lord is actually a form of trust.” Sometimes we find ourselves unable to control our emotions. Often this produces guilt, and we wonder, “What does that say about my faith?” How do we navigate such an experience? Listen as Alasdair Groves discusses this experience and what faithful living looks like in this first episode of a miniseries on emotions. Related resources: * Untangling Emotions | Book by Alasdair Groves & Winston Smith * Emotions Are a Language | Blog post by Ed Welch * Strong Emotions, Extreme Confidence | Blog post by Ed Welch * Negative Emotions (Part 1) | Podcast episode by Alasdair Groves
Sometimes Scripture feels dry, distant, or impersonal. How do we apply Scripture in these times? How do we take hold of a cup of cold water when we are most thirsty? Listen as Alasdair Groves discusses what it looks like to bring Scripture to bear on our sufferings and struggles, using several examples from his own life. Related resources: * Shaking Off Some Lifelessness with the Psalms | Blog post by Ed Welch https://www.ccef.org/shaking-off-some-lifelessness-with-the-psalms * How Do You Personally Engage with Scripture? | Podcast episode by Alasdair Groves & Mike Emlet https://www.ccef.org/podcast/how-do-you-personally-engage-with-scripture * Take Heart: Daily Devotions to Deepen Your Faith | Book by David Powlison https://www.ccef.org/book/take-heart-daily-devotions-to-deepen-your-faith
Do you ever feel guilty about how small or weak your faith is? Listen as Alasdair Groves talks about weak faith, primarily considering an example from Peter, one of Jesus’ own disciples. “It's not about the strength of your faith. It's about the strength of the Savior. It's about the strength of the one who can pull you out of the dark waters and bring you back to the boat. Even the tiniest little bit of faith is God's gift to us anyway.” Related resources: * The Way of Wisdom in Weakness & Self-Doubt | Conference talk by Esther Liu https://www.ccef.org/session/the-way-of-wisdom-in-weakness-self-doubt * What can I do to strengthen my weak faith? | Video by Winston Smith https://www.ccef.org/video/how-can-i-strengthen-my-weak-faith-0 * An Open Letter to a Discouraged Saint | Blog post by Mike Emlet https://www.ccef.org/an-open-letter-to-a-discouraged-saint
“We can become blind to the goodness of what God is calling us to, the fact that his call to obedience is a call to the path of life, not the path of death. When our drudgery becomes our view of what’s happening here, if we see it as him against us or calling us to something that’s not good for us, we’ve lost some ability to perceive what is true.” Why do we struggle to do the things God has given us to do? How do we fight laziness or procrastination and move forward into the hard but rewarding task of the work that God has set before us? Listen as Alasdair Groves shares about his own struggles with laziness and how God can grow us in perseverance in our work."Related resources: * "Why Bother?" | Blog by Ed Welch https://www.ccef.org/why-bother/ * "Psalm 90 and 'Doing the Best That I Can'" | Blog by Todd Stryd https://www.ccef.org/psalm-90-and-doing-the-best-that-i-can/
More information about the 2023 CCEF National Conference here: https://www.ccef.org/2023
“When you offer normal, mundane, simple, best-you-can-do words of love and encouragement to somebody in their struggles, there is actually a physiological impact you are having on that person. When you offer words of comfort, you are literally changing something about their body.” We’re excited to launch season 4 with a discussion on how the words we speak to one another can actually have physical effects for good. Related resources: * Words of Counsel | JBC article by Pierce Taylor Hibbs https://www.ccef.org/my-account/jbc/2702/words-of-counsel-part-1-a-biblical-theological-foundation/ * The Power of Words | JBC article by Paul David Tripp https://www.ccef.org/jbc_article/the-power-of-words/ * Edit Your Counseling | Blog by Ed Welch https://www.ccef.org/edit-your-counseling/ * Speaking Words that Bring Life | Conference talk by Darby Strickland https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/speaking-words-that-bring-life/
“It is hard to speak to the Lord about your sufferings and to lament and to honestly go to him and say, ‘Lord, this is hurting in my heart, on my soul.’ We rarely step into relationship in that way, and it's a struggle. It's a challenge, and it's a good, right, excellent challenge to come to him as the one who really does care.” What is self-pity, and how should we view it? How can we turn our self-pity into godly lament that engages honestly with the Lord? Listen as Alasdair Groves discusses self-pity and considers what to do when we or others are struggling with it. Related resources: * How Precisely Can I Sort Out My Emotions? Part 4 | Blog post by David Powlison https://www.ccef.org/how-precisely-can-i-sort-out-my-emotions-part-4-5/ * The Poison of Self-Pity | Journal article by William P. Farley https://www.ccef.org/jbc_article/the-poison-of-self-pity/
“Only the Lord is deserving of full, utter trust. We have a God we can trust 100% in every situation to be who he says he will be. And that means we can always trust whatever he’s up to in another person.” What does it mean that “love trusts all things,” as 1 Corinthians 13:7 says? How do we show an appropriate level of trust in others, and when are the times we shouldn’t? Listen as Alasdair Groves discusses what it means that “love always trusts.” Related resources: * Rebuilding Broken Trust | Journal article by Alasdair Groves https://www.ccef.org/jbc_article/rebuilding-broken-trust/ * How can I repair broken trust? | Ask the Counselor video by Aaron Sironi https://www.ccef.org/video/how-can-i-repair-broken-trust-its-discouraging-to-think-our-relationship-will-never-be-the-same/
Alasdair Groves speaks with Collin Hansen about his new book, Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation, and the influences on Tim Keller, which included CCEF and David Powlison. Collin Hansen is the vice president for content and editor in chief of The Gospel Coalition, as well as executive director of The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. Mentioned in the podcast: * "Idols of the Heart and 'Vanity Fair'" | Journal article by David Powlison. Read it here for free: https://www.ccef.org/idols-heart-and-vanity-fair/
When we think about the state of the church today, the negatives often come to mind. While there is much to be grieved about and much change that needs to take place, there is much to be encouraged by when you look at how God is working through local churches around the world. Listen as Alasdair Groves considers some of the reasons not to give up on the church. "The church has been through a thousand seasons where it's torn itself apart over the ages. But grace is always the center. God's love is always the center that draws his people back together. Let your eyes look for the ways where truth and hope and love and kindness and fellowship are gifts to you through your brothers and sisters, from Jesus himself." Related resource: * How Is the Church Doing at Caring for One Another? | Video by Ed Welch https://www.ccef.org/video/how-is-the-church-doing-at-caring-for-one-another/ * The Local Church Is THE Place for Biblical Counseling | Blog post by David Powlison https://www.ccef.org/local-church-place-biblical-counseling/
What does it mean to “get over something”? After enduring a difficult situation, how do we know if we’ve processed it wisely? Listen as Alasdair Groves discusses some steps we can consider as we grieve and heal. Check out our free resource included with this podcast! Use the code “podcast” at checkout to receive your free article. “‘I’ll Never Get Over It’: Help for the Aggrieved” by David Powlison https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/ill-never-get-help-aggrieved/
What do we do when we don’t seem to feel much emotion? How can we understand this experience, and what is God’s call to us in it? Listen as Alasdair Groves talks about the experience of numb emotions. “Each one of us will face different struggles, but for each of us, there's an opportunity to walk toward the Lord and walk toward each other. If you experience a lack of emotion, that in and of itself is always an opportunity to speak to the Lord and to speak to others.” Related resources: * Untangling Emotions | Book by Alasdair Groves and Winston Smith https://www.ccef.org/book/untangling-emotions/ * Strong Emotions, Extreme Confidence | Blog post by Ed Welch https://www.ccef.org/strong-emotions-extreme-confidence/ * Engaging Our Emotions, Engaging with God | Blog post by Alasdair Groves https://www.ccef.org/engaging-our-emotions-engaging-god/
Most of us are familiar with the ways our phones can be detrimental to our spiritual lives. But how often do we consider ways they can be of spiritual benefit? Listen as Alasdair Groves talks about how smartphones can actually enrich our relationship with God. “My phone was pointing me directly to the glories and the riches and the treasures of God's promises to us, fulfilled so directly and so richly through the Holy Spirit, even in things as simple as what I was doing as I swiped or scrolled or sent a text or did a hundred other things that we do every day.” Related resources: * “Why Do We Pray?” blog post by David Powlison * “Eyes That See More” blog post by Ed Welch
“Sometimes, we will listen and we will hear silence. We will look around, and we will not see him or what he is up to, and we will not know what to make of our circumstances, but here’s what we do know: we walk with the God who preserves his people. The God who stores our tears in a bottle is the God who knows our names and who shapes our names and our circumstances and will always be among us.” What do we do when God is silent? How do we have hope when it feels like he is absent? Listen as Alasdair Groves considers God’s seeming silence for 400 years of history between the Old and New Testaments, and how even then, God’s care is never diminished. Related resources: * Where Was God? | Blog post by Ed Welchwww.ccef.org/where-was-god/ * Why Prayer Is Hard for Me | Blog post by Laura Andrews www.ccef.org/why-prayer-is-hard-for-me/
“One of your greatest goals as a man whom the Lord has called into marriage is to maximize your wife’s opportunities to use her gifts within the context of her life and community. You ask, 'How can I help her flourish?' That is serving her; that is leading her." Scripture calls husbands to lead their wives. But what does this look like? How do we know if we’re leading our wives well? Listen as Alasdair Groves talks about what it looks like to focus on serving our wives rather than focusing on our role as leader. Related resources: * Manliness for Every Husband | Journal article by Ed Welch https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/manliness-for-every-husband/ * Spiritual Leadership in the Home | Podcast episode by Alasdair Groves & Robyn Huck https://www.ccef.org/podcast/spiritual-leadership-in-the-home/
“We have a God who loves, cares, and knows, and I can rest utterly in the hope that he will be with me, he will walk with me, and he will provide. He will care for every last moment of my day tomorrow as I am exhausted.” Do you ever have nights where you can’t sleep? Whatever the reason may be, struggling to sleep is a form of suffering. Alasdair Groves explores what it looks like to lean on the Lord when we can’t sleep, assured that he is near and he cares. Related resources: * “Rest” | Podcast episode by Alasdair Groves https://www.ccef.org/podcast/rest/ * “Cares and Consolations” | Blog post by Mike Emlet https://www.ccef.org/cares-and-consolations/ * “Fear and Faith Conjoined” | Blog post by Ed Welch https://www.ccef.org/fear-and-faith-conjoined/
“We do grieve, but we don't grieve without hope. Our grief is a hopeful grief. The losses we sustain and experience in this life are hope-filled because of Jesus, because we have a hope that transcends death itself. We have a God who is redeeming all of creation.”In the first episode of season 3, Alasdair Groves talks about how grief is not something to run from, be ashamed of, or try to get rid of, but grief is an invitation to worship God as the giver of every good gift. Related resources: * “Grief Undone: Walking through Grief alongside the Spirit” | Conference audio by Libby Groves https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/grief-undone-walking-grief-alongside-spirit/ * “Is It Right to Feel Grief for What is Grievous?” | Blog post by David Powlison https://www.ccef.org/it-right-feel-grief-what-grievous-part-2-5/ * “What do I do when I can’t seem to get over my grief?” | Video by Alasdair Groves https://www.ccef.org/video/what-do-i-do-when-i-cant-seem-to-get-over-my-grief/
Enjoy a bonus episode while we’re on break over the summer! This episode is a recording of Alasdair Groves’ plenary session from the 2021 National Conference: Modern Problems.
This year's National Conference: The Way of Wisdom will explore Old Testament wisdom literature in light of Jesus, the true wisdom of God. Learn more and register at ccef.org/2022.
To receive a $25 discount on your in-person registration, use the code “podcast” at checkout. This discount is valid through the end of August 2022.
Find all the sessions from our 2021 National Conference: Modern Problems here: https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/modern-problems-2021-national-conference-download/.
“We should never be content with, ‘I love that person but I don’t like them.’ That should always be a call to press deeper, to seek to love in ways that lead us toward a greater tenderness and affection.” In our 8th and final episode of season 2, Alasdair Groves explores the phrase, “I love you but I don’t like you.” Is it helpful, harmful, or potentially both? How can we engage with someone whom we love but don’t “like” in a particular moment or season? How can we both love someone and be passionate for their growth in godliness? How did Jesus model this wise love? Related resources: * “Treasuring Others” | Blog post by Alasdair Groves https://www.ccef.org/treasuring-others/ * “Treasuring Others” | JBC article by Alasdair Groves https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/treasuring-others/ * “Love is Inconvenient” | Blog post by Mike Emlet https://www.ccef.org/love-is-inconvenient/ * “Authentic Love” | Conference audio by Mike Emlet https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/authentic-love-relationships-i-john-0/ * “Side by Side” | Book by Ed Welch https://www.ccef.org/book/side-side-walking-others-wisdom-love/
"Anything that presses us forward towards each other with a desire to know the Lord and know his people and know how to love better is going to be helpful. Better to be thinking and reflecting more rather than less if you’re doing it with love and humility and the desire for wisdom.”
How do we think biblically about personality tests? Are they helpful, harmful, or potentially both? Does Scripture have anything to say about personality? In this episode, Alasdair Groves discusses these questions and more. Related resources: * “Personality Tests” podcast episode by Ed Welch: https://www.ccef.org/podcast/personality-tests/ * “What does temperament have to do with biblical counseling?” video by David Powlison: https://www.ccef.org/video/what-does-temperament-have-do-biblical-counseling/ * “Psychological Tests: Are You For or Against?” blog post by Ed Welch: https://www.ccef.org/psychological-tests-are-you-or-against/ * “Describe a Person Well and You Win that Person” blog post by Ed Welch: https://www.ccef.org/describe-person-well-and-you-win-person/
What is conversion therapy and how do we think biblically about it? How do we engage with and offer the hope found in Christ to those struggling with same-sex attraction, transgenderism, and other LGBTQ+ issues? How do we navigate our role as disciplers in a world where the definition of “counselor” is increasingly broad? In this episode, Alasdair Groves discusses these questions and more through the lens of a biblical counselor. Check out other CCEF resources on these topics: * “The Silence is Deafening: Understanding and Welcoming Those with Same-Sex Attraction” conference talk by Mike Emlet: https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/the-silence-is-deafening-understanding-and-welcoming-those-with-same-sex-attraction/ * “Gender Identity” podcast episode by David Powlison and Alasdair Groves: https://www.ccef.org/podcast/gender-identity/ * “When Your Child Says ‘I’m Gay’” conference talk by Michael Gembola: https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/child-says-im-gay/ * “Five Ministry Prioriites for those Struggling with Same-Sex Attraction” JBC article by Mike Emlet: https://www.ccef.org/shop/product/five-ministry-priorities-struggling-sex-attraction/ * “A Recent Question I Was Asked About Homosexuality” blog by Ed Welch: https://www.ccef.org/question-i-was-recently-asked-about-homosexuality/
Through the specific example of video game addiction, Alasdair Groves illustrates a broader skill fundamental to biblical counseling: learning to see and draw out what is good, even in the midst of someone making a mess of their life. “In Hebrews 10, the Lord calls us as Christians to spur one another on to love and good deeds. That's an invitation to an incredible wealth of creativity as believers in thinking about how to apply this passage. Finding the traces of good in someone's bad decisions is one way of growing and being able to spur people on to love and good deeds. It’s a microcosm for seeing the surprising-ness of the hope and power of the gospel.” Related Resources: * “An Open Letter to a Discouraged Saint” blog by Mike Emlet: https://www.ccef.org/an-open-letter-to-a-discouraged-saint/ * “Seeing the People in Front of You” blog by Darby Strickland: https://www.ccef.org/seeing-the-people-in-front-of-you/
"We are never outside of the tender care of God. It's true when we sleep. It's true when we struggle to get out of bed. It's true when we fail to read the Bible. It's true when we aren't eating healthily. It's true when everything just feels bleak."
"Leviticus is probably not the first place that people think about life meeting scripture. Most of us don't get to January 1st, planning to read through the Bible this year, and put the day on their calendar that we get to start Leviticus. That's not how most of us tend to function. Of course, if you have read the entire Bible, you have a sense that the book of Leviticus is quite important."
"Think about Psalm 103. That beautiful phrase, "For the Lord knows that we are dust." He sees our frailty, He knows how fragile we are, and He meets us in that."
"The problem is not that our desires need to stay constantly small and in check to make sure they don't threaten our feeble love for Christ. It's rather, we want our love for Christ to grow and grow"
“Biblical hope is, God is with you. You are not alone in the wilderness. God is with you and that changes everything.”
“If we are people of the God of grace, and the word of God is utterly full of grace, then any true words we say ought to be full of grace as well.”
“The Bible offers one central way of dealing with our negative emotions: we pray them. We take our deeply distressing emotions and we run to the Lord, placing them in his hands."
“As Christians we share the experience of simultaneously being saints, sufferers and sinners. Knowing one another and loving one another well requires that we attend to these three foundational experiences.”
“As Christians we share the experience of simultaneously being saints, sufferers and sinners. Knowing one another and loving one another well requires that we attend to these three foundational experiences.”
“As Christians we share the experience of simultaneously being saints, sufferers and sinners. Knowing one another and loving one another well requires that we attend to these three foundational experiences.”
“Being a saint, sufferer, and sinner are intertwined experiences for believers. These are not segmented areas of our lives—our day to day experiences are a blending of the three.”
As Christians we share the experience of simultaneously being saints, sufferers and sinners. Knowing one another and loving one another well requires that we attend to these three foundational experiences.
Let me ask you a question. Is it okay for Christians to feel really bad? Is it okay for Christians to get upset and feel terrible? Do you have a place in your theology for a Christian to be sad or angry or afraid or any of a host of other negative emotions?
“God is passionately interested in giving us encouragement that shapes our ability to endure hardship every step of the way.”
Where you end up is actually through Christ Himself through His trauma and His overcoming the grave itself and every violation that He, knowing and meeting and living with us, has this way of drawing us close and we end up in a place more profoundly deeply good than even where we were. That doesn't make the trauma good, it doesn't mean, "Oh, I'm glad I went through trauma," it just simply means there is this inescapable reality to the depth of hope that a connection to Christ in the midst of trauma offers.
Is our rest actually restful? In this episode of the CCEF Podcast: Where Life and Scripture Meet, Alasdair Groves sits down to expose the ways that chasing after rest can feel like a never-ending, unsatisfying cycle, and discusses how viewing rest through a Christ-centered perspective frees us to embrace true rest in whatever capacity it might come.
“There’s a fine line between godly anxiety that’s a godly concern and godless anxiety that pushes away from God and toward man.”
“The conversation about spiritual leadership requires humility and patience from both husband and wife.”
"Many times in our anxiety, depression, and hardships, we forget the Author of our story. What does it look like for me to remind someone that we can trust the Author who is good and faithful?"
Alasdair Groves sits down and talks with David Powlison about Psychiatric Disorders and the Church.
Alasdair Groves sits down with Pastor Marc Davis about things that he's learned as a pastor.
Alasdair Groves and Julie sit down and talk about protecting the vulnerable in the church.
Alasdair Groves sits down and talks about Borderline Personality Disorder with David Powlison.
Alasdair Groves and Mike Emlet sit down and talk about OCD. This is part two of a two part series.
Alasdair Groves and Mike Emlet sit down and talk about OCD. This is part one of a two part series.
Alasdair Groves and David Powlison sit down and discuss how meaningful Psalm 103 has been to them.
Alasdair Groves and Mike Emlet sit down and talk about some of the best aspects of psychology.
Why podcasts? First, we’ve had a lot of requests asking us to get back on the air. We care about supporting you in life and ministry, so we’re making it happen. Second, the podcast format allows us to touch on topics that can be difficult to cover in other forms of media. Those are two good reasons, but at the heart of why we are relaunching the CCEF podcast is because we recognize that biblical counseling is hard. We want you to know that you are not the only one out there that finds it challenging, and we’re committed to coming alongside and supporting you in the process. We’re in this together.
On today's show, Myriam, Winston, Cecelia, and Laura discuss legal protection in counseling.
Today on the podcast Winston and Myriam sit down with Cecelia Bernhardt and Laura Andrews. They discuss the dangers of falling into the trap of busyness.
Winston Smith and Myriam Hertzog sit down with Ed Welch to discuss a biblical response to tragedy. They answer the question "Is Why? a biblical question?" in response to tragedy.
In this podcast Winston and Myriam sit down with Pastor Bill Smith. They discuss what it looks like to love others in your life, especially when it's hard.
John Applegate joins Winston and Myriam and discusses typical questions in psychiatry. They discuss the some issues and hesitations that Christians usually run into around the topic.
David Powlison answers the question, "How does the Bible connect with everyday life?" in this secend of four sessions at the "Changing Hearts" conference in the UK.
Dr. Tim Lane explores the question, "who needs to change?" in this first of four sessions delivered at the "Changing Hearts" event in the UK.
Yesterday, Alasdair Groves, assistant faculty at CCEF, preached a sermon on Exodus 16. In that passage, the Israelites are wandering in the desert and question God about their lack of food. They fear for their survival and are upset. Likewise, after the shootings in Newtown Connecticut, many of us are fearful and upset. We hope you will be blessed as Alasdair draws on this passage to point us to the goodness of God who continually cares for us. As we cast our anxieties on him, we are more able to trust him for the future and be a people of joy in the midst of a dark world.
Today on Help & Hope, Alasdair Groves and Mike Emlet discuss the value of the emotions of the counselee in the moment of the counseling session for the process of walking with them to heal from past hurts.
In another "In The Counselor's Room," Alasdair Groves and Julie Lowe discuss how to help a child counselee to build relational bridges with their parents.
Life in a fallen world is painful and broken. As Christians endure hardship and suffering, it is common to feel angry at God in our hearts. Our job as counselors is to help people face the reality of the anger they feel, express it, and repent of it so they can move forward. Listen as Alasdair Groves and Cecelia Bernhardt discuss how to come alongside and help those who struggle in this way.
This week on Help and Hope, Alasdair Groves and Mike Emlet discuss how to take seriously those statements of counselees that might imply intent to harm themselves.
This week on Help & Hope, Winston Smith, Bryan Munnings, Mike Emlet, and Myriam Hertzog discuss the issues that are involved in showing tough love to adult children.
This week on Help and Hope, in a special series called "In The Counselor's Room," Alasdair Groves and Michael Emlet talk about physical issues in counseling.
This week on Help and Hope we continue our special series "In the Counselor's Room" with guest host Alasdair Groves and Dr. David Powlison, who are discussing the importance of helping people find the watershed moments.
This week is a special edition of Help and Hope entitled In the Counselor's Room and is hosted by Alasdair Groves who is joined by Mike Emlet to discuss note taking in counseling.
This week on Help and Hope our host Winston Smith visits with CCEF President Dr. Tim Lane and Myriam Hertzog to discuss the pastor's role as counselor.
This week on Help and Hope our host Winston Smith sits down with Dr. Mike Emlet, Myriam Hertzog and Brian Munnings to discuss a biblical perspective on competition.
This week our host Winston Smith sits down with CCEF president Dr. Tim Lane and Myriam Hertzog to discuss how to love needy, fearful people.
This week our host Winston Smith sits down with Dr. Mike Emlet and Myriam Hertzog to discuss boredom.
This week our host Winston Smith sits down with Dr. Tim Lane and Myriam Hertzog to discuss what makes CCEF cross-cultural.
In this special edition of Help and Hope entitled "In the Counselor's Room", guest host Alasdair Groves speaks with Dr. Ed Welch about how critical it is for counselees to know and love the Word of God.
In this special edition of Help and Hope entitled "In the Counselor's Room", guest host Alasdair Groves speaks with Dr. Ed Welch about what Dr. Welch means when he says that "the Word of Christ has to sound good to you".
In this special edition of Help and Hope entitled "In the Counselor's Room", guest host Alasdair Groves speaks with Dr. Ed Welch about how important it is to learn what is most important to your counselee.
In this special edition of Help and Hope entitled "In the Counselor's Room", guest host Alasdair Groves speaks with Dr. Ed Welch about "exposing a counselee's mythology".
This week our host Winston Smith sits down with Dr. Mike Emlet and Chris Carter to respond to a question from a parent whose child is suffering with bipolar.
This week our host Winston Smith sits down with Dr. Mike Emlet and Chris Carter to discuss how directive a counselor should be in counseling sessions.
This week our host Winston Smith sits down with Dr. Mike Emlet and Chris Carter to respond to a question about shyness.
This week our host Winston Smith is joined by Mike Emlet and Chris Carter to respond to a question about anxiety.
This week our host Andrew Ray sits down with Winston Smith, author of the book "Marriage Matters", and Cecelia Bernhardt, to discuss how to love a spouse who is walking through depression.
OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder… What do these diagnostic labels mean for strugglers and for those who want to help them? This session explores the origins of our modern psychiatric diagnostic system and provides a balanced critique that neither exalts nor ignores these categories in the context of ministry.
This week our host Andrew Ray sits down with Winston Smith and Cecelia Bernhardt to discuss mindfulness meditation.
This week our host Andrew Ray sits down with Dr. Mike Emlet and CCEF Director of Counseling Cecelia Bernhardt to respond to a question on forgiveness.