Associates in Christian Counseling

New Heart, New Mind — An Interview with Dr. Joe Verga

What do you mean by “New Heart”?

Scripture teaches that when we are reborn, we become new creatures in Christ. This experience is, however, just the beginning of a journey and not an end in itself. It is worked out in our day to day lives in many ways. Theologically speaking, it is described as sanctification. In practical terms, it is God fixing things that are broken within us, healing wounds, teaching us, and empowering us to use the gifts we have been given.

Can you describe what it means from a personal perspective?

As a young adult, I experienced God’s grace and transforming power in turning my life around. Before that time my life was marked by rebellion, substance abuse, broken relationships and a chaotic search for spiritual truth. From the day I finally heard and understood the gospel, God’s grace has been at work leading me in a continual process of striving to heal, grow, and obey Him. This often occurs in fellowship with other believers. The changes begin deeply within, in the heart, and work its way into our thinking and our behavior.

How does “New Mind” fit into this?

The process of growing and healing emotional wounds often requires new ways of thinking or behaving which involves the mind as well as the heart. Everyone has baggage and it may be necessary to unpack those bags, sort through the contents, and put on some new ‘grace’ clothes in order for us to live unencumbered by our past. It is God’s choice and pleasure that this is a process in which we are a partner with Him, and also with other believers.

What is unique about Christian counseling?

Christian counseling is similar to any other type of counseling in that credentialed professionals address mental health issues using recognized therapeutic techniques.
The difference is that we are also open to and informed by Christian truth. We do everything another therapist might due plus the honoring of God and His word. We see people in a Biblical world-view and work in concert with the Lord who is leading them in the process of healing and growth.

In II Corinthians 5:18 Paul tells us we have been given the ministry of reconciliation. I believe that Christian counseling can also contribute to the process of a person’s emotional healing and teach them how to move forward in restoring and building relationships.

What thoughts would you share in concluding?

Life presents us with times of both great elation and great struggle. The daily challenge is to walk in the fullness of God’s grace as our hearts and minds are being transformed on this journey to spiritual maturity. As a friend said recently, we need ‘grace for the grind’ on a daily basis. Don’t underestimate the eternal significance of the little things we struggle with everyday, and don’t try to do it on your own, but be in meaningful connection with other Christians and with the Lord.

If you need help in healing wounds or guidance in restoring relationships,
call 336-896-0065, ext. 203, to make an appointment today.