Lament&Therapeutic Use of Prayer_COUC506.edited
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Liberty University *
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506
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Philosophy
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Apr 3, 2024
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Uploaded by AmbassadorCheetah3516
In approaching the therapeutic use of prayer and Scripture with Chichima, it is crucial to consider her cultural and religious background and her current struggles. The most therapeutic use of prayer with Chichima would focus on forgiveness, redemption, and restoration themes. Prayer can serve as a means for her to express her emotions, including her guilt and shame, in a safe and accepting environment.
Scripture can be used therapeutically to provide comfort, guidance, and hope to Chichima. Specifically, passages that emphasize God's unconditional love, grace, and mercy, such as Psalm 103:10-14 ("He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities... As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him") and Isaiah 43:18-19 ("Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland"), denote that her past actions do not define her and that there is hope for healing and restoration.
Integrating theology into Chichima's case involves recognizing the intersection of psychological principles and Christian beliefs. From a theological perspective, it is essential to emphasize the concepts of grace, forgiveness, and redemption. This integration involves helping Chichima understand that her past mistakes do not determine her worth and identity but God's love and acceptance of her. Additionally, exploring theological concepts such as theodicy (the problem of evil and suffering) can help Chichima make sense of her experiences within the framework of her faith.
From a psychological standpoint, it is essential to address Chichima's feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame, which are common reactions following traumatic experiences such as abortion and suicide attempts. Cognitive-behavioral techniques, such as cognitive restructuring and self-
compassion exercises, can help challenge negative thought patterns and foster self-acceptance and forgiveness. Additionally, exploring Chichima's social support network and addressing any cultural or familial factors contributing to her distress can be beneficial.
The integration of theology and psychology in Chichima's case emphasizes a holistic approach to
healing that acknowledges the interconnectedness of spiritual, emotional, and psychological dimensions. Kelly Kapic (2017) observes, "Heartfelt cries and existential questions operate At the core of healthy theology, and suppressing them is more hurtful than a confession of ignorance" (p. 10). With this thought in mind, it is best to lead Chichima to explore her beliefs about God, where she is in her relationship with Him, and how to grieve or lament in this space properly. Kapic (2017) also goes on to write, "Lament is a legitimate, even necessary form of fellowship with God when we are in a place of pain." (p. 29). Both prayer and Scripture are tools
for addressing her spiritual needs and facilitating her journey toward forgiveness and healing. By
aligning therapeutic interventions with Christian principles and values, Chichima can cultivate a sense of hope, resilience, and inner peace as she navigates through her challenges.
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