Belief Models

The graphic contrasts two distinct approaches to belief—what we might call the “Foolish Belief Model” and the “Wise Belief Model.” These models are particularly relevant in biblical counseling or any relationship where you seek to support and guide someone.

Foolish Belief Model: This model is simplistic and immediate, encapsulated in the idea of believing everything a person tells you without question. It reflects a kind of blind trust that accepts a person’s words at face value without seeking further clarity or confirmation. While this model is rooted in a desire to show love and trust—since “love believes all things” (1 Corinthians 13:7)—it can lead to misunderstandings or misguided actions because it lacks discernment and broader context.

Wise Belief Model: In contrast, the Wise Belief Model represents a more nuanced and thoughtful approach. While still rooted in love and trust, this model acknowledges the importance of gathering additional information to gain complete clarity. This approach is not about doubting the person’s words but rather about seeking a more complete understanding of the situation. In the Wise Belief Model, you expand your understanding by considering:

• Biblical truth: Measuring the situation against the truths found in Scripture.
• Context: Understanding the broader context of the situation.
• Others’ input: Consulting with trusted individuals who might offer different insights or experiences.
• God’s perspective: Seeking God’s mind on the matter through prayer and reflection.

As you process the data, a sequence of thought guides you, leading to ultimate trust in God as you help someone.

1. Humility: Holding your conclusions loosely, acknowledging that you may not have the whole picture.
2. Courage: The courage to challenge assumptions or offer a different perspective if necessary.
3. Discernment: Seeking to understand the deeper issues that may not be immediately obvious.
4. Process: Engaging in a thoughtful process of discernment and evaluation.
5. Time: Allowing adequate time to process information without rushing to conclusions.
6. Change: Being open to changing your perspective as more information comes to light.
7. Mystery: Accepting that there are unknowns and that we are not omniscient.
8. Trust: Becoming a good sovereigntist, knowing that trusting God is your anchoring objective

This approach embodies a more holistic and humble way of believing, leading to more effective and compassionate counsel.

Case Study: Biff and Mable

Scenario: Biff and Mable are a married couple experiencing significant conflict. Biff comes to you, deeply upset, and shares that Mable has been disrespectful and dismissive of his opinions. He feels hurt and misunderstood, and his hurt is evident as he recounts specific instances where he believes Mable wronged him.

Foolish Belief Model Approach:
If you adopt the Foolish Belief Model, you might immediately side with Biff, accepting his account as the complete truth. You could offer comfort by agreeing that Mable is entirely wrong and advising Biff to confront her based on his feelings alone. This approach would be driven by a desire to support Biff and show him that you believe him, but it risks overlooking critical aspects of the situation.

Wise Belief Model Approach:
However, employing the Wise Belief Model, you begin by affirming Biff’s feelings and expressing your trust in him: “Biff, I believe that what you’re saying is important and that your thoughts are valid.” But instead of stopping there, you take the following steps to gather more information. You ask if you could speak with Mable to hear her perspective. You also consider the context of their relationship and what the Bible says about marriage, love, and respect.

Through this process, you might discover that Mable has been struggling with her unspoken frustrations and that she and Biff have miscommunicated their desires. You begin to discern their shaping influences, controlling heart idolatries, and the subtle ways they both dishonor each other. This broader understanding allows you to counsel Biff with wisdom, perhaps encouraging both him and Mable to work together on biblical repentance.

By using the Wise Belief Model, you avoid the pitfalls of simplistic belief and instead offer counsel rooted in a fuller understanding, guided by Scripture, humility, and the recognition that true wisdom often requires a willingness to dig deeper and embrace complexity.

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Peace,
Rick