As Christian women, many of us grew up learning that when life feels heavy, the right response is to “pray harder,” “trust more,” or “cast your cares on God.” And while Scripture does invite us into prayer and trust, it never teaches that we must handle emotional pain alone.Yet so many women quietly wonder:
“If I love Jesus, why am I still anxious?”
“Why can’t I just pray this away?”
“Does needing counselling mean my faith isn’t strong enough?”
Let’s be clear: Needing support does not mean you’re spiritually weak. It means you’re human. God designed us for connection, healing, and wise counsel, both spiritually and emotionally.
Counselling and Faith Work Together, Not Against Each Other
Counselling is not the opposite of faith; it is one of the ways God works through faith.
Here’s what I want you to hear deeply: Counselling is not a replacement for prayer. It's a response to prayer.
When God heals, He often uses natural and relational means: Doctors for our bodies, pastors for our spiritual growth, and therapists for the parts of our hearts that feel wounded or overwhelmed. If you are dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, trauma, or burnout, seeking counselling does not mean you’ve failed spiritually. It means you’re choosing healing instead of hiding.
A Biblical Example of Mental and Emotional Struggle
The Bible never hides the emotional battles of God’s people. One of the clearest examples is Elijah, a prophet who had incredible faith and still experienced deep despair.
In 1 Kings 19, after a season of intense stress, threat, and exhaustion, Elijah says: “I have had enough, Lord… let me die.” (1 Kings 19:4)
This is a moment of emotional collapse. Elijah wasn’t weak. He wasn’t faithless. He was a human being under extreme pressure.
And how did God respond? He didn’t shame him. He didn’t say, “Pray harder.”
Instead, he nourished him with food and rest. He listened to him. Then he sent support, a helper, Elisha. God gave Elijah what we might call today: Emotional regulation, nervous system care, grounding, support, and companionship.
It’s a beautiful reminder that God meets us in our humanity, not just our spirituality.
Counselling Is a Form of God-Given Support
Scripture even encourages seeking wise counsel:
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22)
“Carry each other’s burdens.” (Galatians 6:2)
“Encourage one another and build each other up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Counselling is simply one way of carrying one another’s burdens with compassion and wisdom.
And yes, psychology and faith can work together beautifully. Healing is not a sign that God left you; it’s proof that He’s still at work.
You Don’t Have to Be Strong All the Time
If you’re struggling, it doesn’t mean:
- You’re not praying enough
- You’re not grateful
- You’re failing as a Christian woman
- You’re lacking faith
It means you’re carrying something heavy, and God never asked you to carry it alone. Jesus Himself said: “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Sometimes that rest looks like prayer.
Sometimes it looks like community.
And sometimes it looks like sitting with a trained, compassionate counsellor who helps you untangle what feels overwhelming.
If You’re Considering Counselling… This Is Your Invitation
There is nothing unspiritual about seeking help. It is wise. It is brave. It is biblical. And it aligns with the heart of a God who heals both soul and mind. If your faith matters deeply to you and you long for support that honours Scripture while caring for your emotional wellbeing, I’d love to walk alongside you. You don’t have to separate your spiritual life from your healing journey, you can bring your whole self: your faith, your questions, your pain, and your hopes.
If something in this resonates, consider this your nudge to take the next step.
Reach out. Ask a question. Book a session when you’re ready.
Healing is holy work. And you are worthy of it.
Maria Crawford
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