The Christian Counseling Center of First Presbyterian Church

11/20/2025

💔 What if our brokenness has a purpose?

Pastor and writer A.J. Sherrill once shared a powerful thought: “The purpose of brokenness is to feed those around you.”

Just as Jesus broke the bread to feed the crowd, He often uses the broken places in our own lives to bring healing, hope, and nourishment to others.

“Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people.” — Matthew 14:19 (NIV)

Our pain is never wasted in the hands of a loving Savior. The same God who multiplies bread and fish can multiply the lessons, empathy, and compassion born out of your brokenness.

Who might God be calling you to “feed” through what you’ve walked through?

If you’re in a season of brokenness, you’re not alone. Let us walk with you as you find hope, healing, and purpose again.

Learn more or connect with a counselor at www.christiancounseling.ws

11/17/2025

As parents, November gives us a beautiful opportunity to model true gratitude in front of our children.

Psalm 92:1 reminds us, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord.” What a blessing for our children to see our thankfulness, not just in words, but in the way we live.

Our little ones are watching how we respond to both the good and the hard times. When they see us give thanks in every circumstance, we teach them that gratitude isn’t based on comfort; it’s rooted in the unshakable goodness of God.

Here are a few simple ways to practice gratitude together as a family this month:
🍂 Talk about things you’re thankful for on the drive to school.
🍂 Create a “Wall of Gratitude” with daily notes of thanks.
🍂 Write thank-you letters to friends, family, or teachers.
🍂 Take a “Gratitude Walk” and list blessings from A to Z together.
🍂 End each day with prayer, thanking God for one blessing from that day.

These small moments become lasting lessons and joyful memories. Most importantly, let’s show our children that our gratitude is anchored in the Gospel and the saving love of Jesus Christ.

Find more faith-centered encouragement and insights at www.christiancounseling.ws

11/14/2025

11/13/2025

🕊️ Perfect Peace in an Imperfect World

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.” — Isaiah 26:3–4 (NIV)

Seasons of life often bring chaos, uncertainty, and moments that test our peace. Yet, even in the hardest seasons, we serve a God who never changes. A God who offers calm in the middle of the storm.

When we fix our eyes on Him rather than the chaos around us, He steadies our hearts. His peace isn’t fragile or temporary. It’s perfect, rooted in His unshakable presence.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” — John 14:27 (NIV)

May you find rest today in the everlasting Rock who holds you secure.

If you’re struggling to find peace in this season, our counselors are here to help you rediscover hope and wholeness through Christ.

🤍 Reach out at www.christiancounseling.ws

11/11/2025

❤️ Honoring Those Who Served 💙

Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation. Veterans Day reminds us of the deep sacrifices made, not only by those who served, but also by their families, friends, and communities.

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13 (NIV)

Our veterans have modeled this love through their service, their courage, and their commitment to something greater than themselves.

But while the uniform may come off, the weight of service often remains. Many veterans carry invisible burdens, emotional scars, trauma, or grief that linger long after duty ends.

At the Christian Counseling Center, we’re here to walk alongside veterans and their families as they seek healing for their minds, bodies, and spirits.

If you or someone you love is a veteran in need of support, please reach out. You are not alone, and through Christ, healing is possible.

Learn more or connect with us at www.christiancounseling.ws

11/05/2025

🌤️ When the seasons change, your mood can too. ❄️

As daylight fades and colder months set in, many experience more than just the “winter blues.” Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that can bring fatigue, sadness, loss of motivation, or difficulty finding joy in things you normally love.

If you’ve noticed your energy or emotions shifting with the seasons, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to push through it alone.

🤍 Talk about how you’re feeling.
🤍 Get outside and move your body when you can.
🤍 Prioritize rest and connection.
🤍 Seek professional and spiritual support when needed.

Even when the days feel darker, God’s light still shines in you and for you.

If you or someone you love is struggling, our counselors are here to help you find hope and healing through faith-based care.

Learn more or reach out at www.christiancounseling.ws

11/01/2025

Behind every act of compassion, there’s a caregiver.

From long nights to quiet prayers, caregivers serve with strength, patience, and Christ-like love, often without recognition.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” — 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)

To every family caregiver:
💛 We see your selfless love.
💛 We honor your tireless dedication.
💛 We’re praying for your strength, peace, and rest.

Caregiving is a sacred calling, but it can also be heavy. If you’re feeling weary or emotionally drained, you don’t have to carry that burden alone.

At the Christian Counseling Center, we offer Christ-centered counseling to help you find encouragement, renewal, and hope in your caregiving journey.

Learn more or reach out for support at www.christiancounseling.ws

Thank you for reflecting God’s heart in the way you love and care for others.

10/31/2025

🎃👻 Just a friendly reminder this Halloween:

It may carry different meanings for many, but as believers, we rest in this truth:
“The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” — 1 John 4:4 (NIV)

No matter what the world calls “unhallowed,” Jesus reigns supreme.

“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” — Colossians 2:15 (NIV)

So tonight, whether you’re enjoying candy, costumes, or cozy fall festivities, remember the victory has already been won.

Wishing you a safe, sweet, and blessed Halloween, friends! 🍬

10/29/2025

A new collaboration just dropped!

Join Forever Changed Films on Friday November 7th from 7:00-9:00pm to view the newest installment of the Sound Mind documentary series.

Episode 5, entitled "Tangled Tired Mind," takes a clinical perspective on OCD, marriage conflict, and alcohol use while ultimately pointing towards the God who heals.

It also features commentary from our Executive Director, Dr. Brian Mesimer!

The registration link can be found here: https://foreverchanged.breezechms.com/form/01f226153287

10/27/2025

Can boundaries really be biblical? Absolutely.

Boundaries are more than personal limits; they’re part of living out healthy, God-honoring relationships. They protect our emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being while helping us say yes to what God is calling us to and no to what pulls us away from His purpose.

📖 “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

💛 Boundaries guard our relationships, allowing love, respect, and honesty to flourish.
💛 Boundaries show love and respect, as we speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15, NIV).
💛 Boundaries reflect God’s wisdom, guiding us toward discernment and peace.

Boundaries aren’t walls to shut others out; they’re tools to help us walk wisely, love deeply, and follow God’s will with clarity.

If you’re seeking guidance on creating healthy, biblical boundaries, we’re here to walk with you.

Reach out today to schedule an appointment: www.christiancounseling.ws

10/21/2025

As the seasons shift, so often do our emotions. Some feel energized by crisp mornings and fresh routines, while others find shorter days and fading light heavy on the heart.

Both responses are valid, and both remind us of our need to pause and check in with ourselves.

🍂 How is your mood from week to week?
🍂 Are you getting the rest you need?
🍂 Do you have support from people who lift you up and support you?
🍂 Are you making space to meet with God in this season?

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) reminds us: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

Whatever season you’re in, God’s presence remains steady. And if you need someone to walk with you through the ups and downs, our counselors are here to help. 💛

Reach out today to schedule an appointment: www.christiancounseling.ws

10/15/2025

Ever feel like you’re barely holding on, like a reed already bruised and about to break?

Richard Sibbes, a 17th-century preacher often referred to as the “heavenly doctor,” wrote a book called “The Bruised Reed” that still speaks comfort today.

Drawing from Isaiah 42:3, he reminds us that Jesus does not crush the weak or s***f out the struggling. Instead, Christ meets us in gentleness and kindness, knowing our weaknesses and failures yet still choosing to draw near.

“A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not s***f out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice.” — Isaiah 42:3 (NIV)

When we feel faint or fragile, the gospel promises us a Savior who sympathizes with our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15) and tenderly builds us up in love.

“The Bruised Reed” is a short, deeply encouraging read, reminding us that in Christ, our weakness is not the end of the story.