They don\u2019t teach this method at Seminary \u2013 at least not that I ever encountered. I\u2019m reading the book of Nehemiah every week for seven or eight weeks while I preach through it at my church. It\u2019s been pretty interesting to read the story of the exiled community returning to find their city in ruins and then dropping everything to rebuild the walls. We\u2019re doing chapter 05 tomorrow, it\u2019s the story of when some of the leaders of the community were taking unfair advantage of those who were vulnerable. Nehemiah proposes a radical solution to solve the problem: stop it. Funny thing was that it worked.<\/p>\n
I don\u2019t think I\u2019m that great at pastoral counselling. I don\u2019t really have a method. I listen. I pray. And I try to tell the good news to people. I don\u2019t know if it helps. But I have been the beneficiary of some great pastoral care over the years \u2013 mostly from friends of mine who are pastors. Usually the very best care I get sounds a lot like Nehemiah and Bob Newhart. It\u2019s a real gift when someone who loves me will call me on my crap and tell me to stop it.<\/p>\n
If you are struggling with an addiction or a disease like alcoholism, ptsd or a diagnosed issue \u2013 this is terrible advice. Don\u2019t watch this video and know that you are loved. If you are struggling with something pedestrian but powerful there is some value to this advice. What has you stuck in a rut?\u00a0What\u2019s causing you trouble in your life? What silliness do you return to day after day that you know isn\u2019t good for you? What\u2019s killing your relationships and robbing you of joy? What is hindering your involvement in the mission of God?<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s a little classic MadTV\u2026 Bob Newhart at his best, to offer you some advice.<\/p>\n