Why Waterbrook?

We live in a day and time marked by the advice of various gurus. Bookstores have seemingly millions of self-help books from millions of authors with as many ideas on how to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled. Similarly, a multitude of philosophers and charlatans fill racks with their wares. Even with all of this counsel on how to live happily and fulfilled lives, it’s still challenging to achieve any meaningful measure of peace, joy, and fulfillment. It seems we’re more stressed-out than ever. But wait, it gets worse.

We often happen upon a suggestion from a well-meaning friend or family member. “Maybe you should try counseling. It might help.” We often make this decision to choose a counselor after a great deal of battling back and forth with the idea. Lo and behold, after the difficult task of choosing a counselor, verifying benefits, making that awkward call, and counting your shekels, you go. And guess what? You find that the person was dull, couldn’t relate at all to your particular cultural background, or thought religion and spirituality is a bunch of superstitious mumbo jumbo. Oh well, back to the bookstore. Or, maybe you commit several years of your life and a small fortune to that person before you head back for another surefire volume.

See how this isn’t going anywhere? Chasing the elusive carrot. Some sane person once said, “insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result.” (I’m paraphrasing, but you get the idea). I agree. That’s where some tried, and true wisdom from the psalmist and the deer comes in. Deer, like us, struggle with the same issue, deep and abiding thirst.

Though a pastoral counselor, I’m the last to say that I have life all figured out. My life is as fraught with suffering and inconsistency as the next person. But, I can honestly say that when I muster up the courage to commune with God in quiet prayer and contemplation, I often happen upon deep and refreshing peace. And for a brief moment, my thirst is quenched. I am confident that cultivating this kind of intimacy and communion with God is the salve for all that ails. I think we’d all be a lot less thirsty if we at least gave it a shot.

In no way am I suggesting that prayer and meditation are a silver bullet. In fact, “just pray more,” religion is one of the worst spiritual abuses of all and contributes to much needless suffering. Instead, it is essential to tend to all aspects of our lives. Nevertheless, I know that the regular practice of meaningful prayer and meditation adds depth and perspective to all of our joys and challenges. My prayer is that your current or future counselor agrees. Thankfully, many do.