David Seamand Summary

David Seamands book is a refreshing read. It brings to light the fact that there are some problems which cannot be solved by merely pushing spiritual jargon at them but by going deeper to the core of the damaged emotion. It gives a truth which is often ignored, that is ‘acceptance of Jesus Christ does not automatically heal all our emotional issues. He however does not downplay the need for the Christian experience but places emphasis on understanding a person’s needs and hurts in order to help them overcome damaged emotions.

The author gives examples of damaged emotions which he has encountered as he counsels people. These include, a deep sense of unworthiness, a perfectionist complex, a super sensitive person, and a person filled with fears. All these personalities have been hurt emotionally and have developed ways to deal with their problems but never get healed. The author gives hope that it is possible to be healed through the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit. The counselee will however need to play their part. The author suggests the following; accepting your responsibility in the matter, checking with yourself if you want to be healed, and forgiving everyone who is involved in the problem (including yourself).
He brings out the truth of the biblical verse Proverbs 23:7 that ...”As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he. He defines the system that puts together self image. This includes one’s outer world, one’s inner world, Satan who uses our feelings against us and God. There are things which one can do to obtain a high self esteem. Three which are necessary are; correction of faulty theology, developing your worth and value from God, and cooperating with the Holy