Pastoral Studies
Lesson Nine:  Counseling

Good Counselor
•	Most effective ministering through counseling
•	A pastor must…
•	Have a knowledge of Bible
•	Have a genuine love and interest in his people
•	Be a student of human nature
•	Have reference books

Ethical Standard
•	Confidentiality
•	Place of counseling
•	Keep to shaking hands
•	Leave office door ajar if of opposite sex
•	Keep session brief

Basic Rules
•	Must be compassionate
•	Must be a good listener
•	Never minimize seriousness of the problem
•	Must understand situation fully before counseling
•	Seek out solution and encourage to overcome

God’s Answers
•	Never withhold God’s answers to needs
•	Present Biblical solution
•	Should not be stern and harsh
•	Present plan of salvation if not saved
•	Lead individual to trust God and pray
•	Never condone sin