Episode 13 — A Better Goal: From Pain Relief to Deep Joy in Jesus

Most of us come to counseling longing for circumstance change or fast relief. Scripture doesn’t dismiss that desire, but it widens the horizon. James 1:2–4 says, “Count it all joy… the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” Romans 8:28–29 says, “All things work together for good… to be conformed to the image of his Son.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “My grace is sufficient for you.” 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 says, the Father “comforts us… so that we may comfort others.” John 15:4–5 says, “Abide in me… apart from me you can do nothing.” Philippians 1:6 says, “He who began a good work… will bring it to completion.”

In this episode Brian shares how these passages reshape counseling goals: not denying pain, but meeting Jesus in it—abiding in His Word with expectancy, working things out in community (Hebrews 10:24–25 says, “Let us consider how to stir up one another… not neglecting to meet”), and blessing others with the comfort we receive. We also name common root lies and replace them with truth (Romans 12:2 says, “Be transformed by the renewal of your mind”; 2 Corinthians 10:5 says, “Take every thought captive”). As John Piper has said, God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him. Being satisfied in the Lord may include healing, but it does not promise it—it promises Him. There is grace for everything, no rush, and real hope for deep change.

Sip Size Q&A:

This is usually where I answer one of your questions in about three minutes—the perfect sip while the coffee’s still hot. So shoot me your curiosities about biblical counseling, Scripture, or even your favorite coffee brew method. You can leave a voice message at the link below or email below.

This week’s question: “If God doesn’t change my circumstances soon, is counseling failing?”

Brief answer: Not necessarily. Scripture measures success by faithfulness and formation. James 1:3–4 says, “The testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” Romans 8:29 says, “To be conformed to the image of his Son.” Expect God’s presence, comfort, and slow, observable fruit—with urgent action when safety requires it.

You can email your questions here: coffeecounselingblc@gmail.com

If you prefer, you can also leave us a voicemail here: https://www.speakpipe.com/CoffeeandCounseling

Counselor’s Corner resources:

This week’s practice:
1. Abide 10–15 minutes daily in John 15; pray Psalm 119:18.
2. Name one root lie and pair it with a matching Scripture truth (Psalm 34:18 says, “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted.”).
3. Invite one trusted friend to pray with you.
4. Bless one sufferer with the comfort you received (2 Corinthians 1:4 says, “Who comforts us… so that we may comfort…”).
Recommended reading:
- Walking with God through Pain and Suffering (Tim Keller),
- Suffering Is Never for Nothing (Elisabeth Elliot),
- When I Don’t Desire God (John Piper).