Soul Care #7: Change is an Ongoing Process

Assumption #1: Behavior is purposeful.
Assumption #2: Change happens in relationships.
Assumption #3: People are ambivalent.
Assumption #4: Not all problems are 'solvable'
Assumption #5: Good counseling is about lending hope.

Assumption #6: Change often begins in a dramatic moment but must continue in an ongoing process. Beware of the story that claims complete freedom as a result of a conference or single event. Don't mistake the dramatic moment for the ongoing healing process. After Jesus heals Lazarus, he still must be 'unbound and let go.' Sometimes we make dramatic decisions during a weekend or retreat, but there is no follow-up. We feel freedom at first, because something a secret we've carried has finally been shared. Then that person comes in the counseling office and says "I don't need to meet anymore." But their journey has just begun. Think of the parable of the strong man. The house has been swept clean, but the Lord of that house hasn't been determined yet. Good counsel will continue to walk alongside.