Heritage Christian Counseling Ministries

Heritage Christian Counseling Ministries Tom Russell grew to know and love the Lord at an early age. In high school he began to date the young lady that he would eventually marry.

His early marriage consisted of both of him and his wife going to Ohio State University, but after an unsuccessful experience, he quit and worked to help his wife finish. After she graduated she encouraged him to try schooling one more time. All it took was her emphasizing to him that she believed in him, and he was back at school. He graduated after completing eleven straight quarters with a degr

ee in elementary education. During his years as a teacher their three biological children were born, and they got full custody of their then, foster son. Throughout his teaching career he thoroughly enjoyed the teaching aspect and making a significant difference in young people's lives, but he always felt there was more that God had in store for him. It was also during this time that he had an incredible passion to help marriages. Because of that passion, he became involved in his church's marriage retreats. There were also times when he would be sitting at his desk after school grading papers and a fellow teacher would walk in and want to talk about their marriage. It was experiences like those that made him think that God had another plan for his life. Finally, after much prayer and wisdom from those he trusted most in life, he resigned from teaching and enrolled at Ashland Theological Seminary to pursue a degree in pastoral counseling. It was during this time that the Lord helped him start the origins of Heritage Christian Counseling Ministries. Tom would work at his job forty hours a week, attend seminary full-time, and still spend about ten hours a week building Heritage. After graduating from seminary in 1997, Heritage became a full time ministry. In 1998, Heritage became a Prepare/Enrich ministry and in 1999, it became a member of The American Association of Christian Counselors, and It has been on a steady growth pattern since.

Devotionals for Daily Living 6/12/26Mercy, an Important Part of a Positive Attitude As a people we are often very...
06/11/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living 6/12/26

Mercy, an Important Part of a Positive Attitude

As a people we are often very ready to extend mercy to other people. We are quick to let others know that it is okay if they made a mistake. We are quick to extend mercy to an individual who may have been late or totally forgot a meeting.

One person we tend to show little mercy to is ourself. We oftentimes think things or say things to, or about, ourselves that are very negative. We are often very disrespectful in our thoughts. Examples include, “I am such an idiot,” or “ I am so stupid.”

These kind of issues are issues of the heart. Proverbs 23:7 tells us, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. ‘Eat and drink!’ He says to you, but his heart is far from you.”

It is very important that, as Paul states in Romans 12:18, we live peaceably with all men. But how can we live peaceably with all men if we can’t live peaceably with ourself?

We are to walk humbly with our God. Psalm 139:24 teaches, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” It is very apparent that treating ourselves with an unhealthy attitude is offensive to our God.

Action poiint
Are you showing mercy to yourself? If you are, then not only are you growing closer to man, but you are also growing closer to God.
(Tom Russell )

Devotionals for Daily Living Defensiveness – a Symptom of PrideMac Tomlinson, from Providence Chapel, writes, “One of th...
06/11/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living

Defensiveness – a Symptom of Pride

Mac Tomlinson, from Providence Chapel, writes, “One of the dictionary definitions for a barometer of pride is that it is ‘an indicator’. So any time we sense defensiveness in ourselves or in others, it is a barometer indicating pride or immaturity.”

Defensiveness has the potential to be a stronghold, which is a mind set that makes a person ready to battle anyone or anything that does not line up with their perception of self or events, or their own thinking. Encouraging scripture is a major help against the defensive manifestation of pride.

The book of Proverbs 28:26 teaches, “He who leans on, trusts in, and is confident of his own mind and heart is a [self-confident] fool, but he who walks in skillful and Godly Wisdom shall be delivered.”

Pola Muzak, Christian author, gives a hopeful answer to defensiveness, “Wait. After you have gathered all the information, prayed, submitted to God, and have forgiven, then wait for God’s guidance in any matter causing defensiveness because he is waiting for you to get right with him.”

Action Point
It is important to go before the Lord and inventory your own defensiveness. It is important to consider how it keeps you distant from our God.
(Tom Russell)

06/09/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living

Grace and Mercy

It is often said that grace is receiving much more than we deserve. Our loving God has saved us and spared us from the consequences of our own sin.

Mercy is receiving less than what we deserve. Because of God‘s great love for us we have mercy. It’s because of the blood of Jesus that we receive less than what we deserve.

A great example of grace and mercy can be found in John 8:3-8, “Because the Pharisees and lawmakers were trying to catch Jesus in a lie they brought in a woman who was caught in adultery. They said to Jesus, ‘We caught her in adultery and she should be stoned.’ Jesus told them, ‘He who has not sinned can cast the first stone.’ One by one the Pharisees and lawmakers walked away. Jesus said, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ ‘No one, sir,’ she said.
‘Then neither do I condemn you,’ Jesus declared. ‘Go now and leave your life of sin.’” The woman received mercy when the people did not stone her and grace because Jesus forgave her.

Jesus makes it clear that we all have sinned, but grace and mercy are there for those who believe.

Action Point
Have you received grace and mercy? Take time to pray about this.
(Tom Russell)

Devotionals for Daily Living Come to Me!We can be so thankful that our Lord promises to be our refuge. He promises t...
06/08/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living

Come to Me!

We can be so thankful that our Lord promises to be our refuge. He promises to be our strength and help.

Psalm 46:1 speaks to our God’s help, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” His refuge, strength and help are available for us.

Matthew 11:28 is another example of Jesus wanting to help us and take care of us, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

When we take a closer look at Jesus invitation to come to Him we find four important meanings to it.

One meaning is when Jesus said "Come," He was inviting people to give to Him the exhausting burden of trying to "earn" their righteousness or salvation through their own performance.

The second meaning is about a personal relationship with Him. It is a call to believe in who He claimed to be and to align your life with Him.

The third meaning is His invitation to take His yoke upon you and learn from Him, for He is gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls, as we read in Matthew 11:29.

The fourth important meaning is Soul-Deep rest. The "rest" Jesus promises in Matthew 11:28 is not necessarily a physical vacation or idleness. The original Greek suggests a refreshing, a strengthening for your life's tasks, and a deep, inward peace for your soul. It is the relief that comes from knowing the ultimate price for your sin and your standing with God has already been handled by Him. What an incredible relief to realize that Jesus wants to bring peace of mind to His people.

Action Point
If you feel weary in your body or soul, remember Jesus said, “Come to me!” If you do, you will find the rest and peace that can only be found in Jesus.
(Tom Russell)

Devotionals for Daily LivingWhy Do We Have Trials in Life?For many it is difficult to understand why we have trials in l...
06/07/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living

Why Do We Have Trials in Life?

For many it is difficult to understand why we have trials in life. It is also a major target for the enemy to try to deceive us and create thoughts that we are not loved by God or we would not have trials.

Trials happen for a reason.
I Peter 1:7 says, “These trials have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” Our faith is important.

He calls us to believe even though we have never seen Him. Withstanding the trials leads us to the eternal reward.
Peter continues in I Peter 1:8, “Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.”

Jesus words in John 16:33 are very important here also, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the the world.”

As Paul wrote in II Corinthians 10, the enemy tries to deceive us and lie to us. He tries to convince us that trails happen because God doesn’t care or doesn’t exist.

Action Point
If we remain faithful, then what Peter said in I Peter 1:9 will be our reward, “For you will receive the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”
(Tom Russell)

Devotionals for Daily LivingAre We Walking in Love?Today, as believers, we are called to be imitators of Jesus. Said in ...
06/06/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living

Are We Walking in Love?

Today, as believers, we are called to be imitators of Jesus. Said in a different way, it means that we are to become more Christlike. When people generally hear that we are to become more Christlike or imitators of Jesus, they react with “I am not Him. I’m not capable.”

That is a great example of a stronghold or mindset that the enemy has planted in our minds. It’s difficult to hear, but we tend to operate as if we aren’t capable. Paul had this to say in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”

Do we walk in love by guarding our tongues from hurting other people? Do we walk in love by building others up? Do we walk in love by forgiving others? Do we walk in love by showing compassion and mercy and grace? Do we walk in love by encouraging and supporting each other?

In Ephesians 5:1-2 Paul encourages us to, “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

I John 4:7-8 has the answer to walking in love with God, “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”

God showed us the way to Him in I John 4:9,
“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.”

Action Point
Are we walking in love? Do our lives reflect the love of Jesus? If not, it is very important to ask Jesus to fill your heart with His presence and His Love.
(Tom Russell)

Devotionals for Daily LivingBuild Your House Upon The RockIn scripture we read about building our house upon the rock. W...
06/05/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living

Build Your House Upon The Rock

In scripture we read about building our house upon the rock. What that means to believers is that we build a firm foundation of understanding of scripture and deep love for Jesus so that nothing can sway us or take us from His love. When we think about the very things that could cause us to go astray, it raises the question of how deep are the roots of our faith?

In Matthew 7:24–29 we read, “‘Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.’ When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.”

Action Point
God doesn’t promise to protect Christians from the storms of life, but he does promise to see us through those storms if we have built our life on His firm foundation. Have you built your house upon the rock?
(Tom Russell)

Devotionals for Daily LivingRenewing our MindsIt has been said that the computer was created to work similar to how the ...
06/04/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living

Renewing our Minds

It has been said that the computer was created to work similar to how the brain works. One example would be what you put into the computer is what comes out of the computer. The mind is like that, also. What we put into the mind is what comes out of the mind. Therefore, what goes into the mind is incredibly important. If we have a steady diet of sitcoms, social media and movies our minds will reflect that.
It is vitally important that we download into our minds that which will be edifying and growth producing.

Paul writes in Romans 12:2 some important wisdom that will be very helpful, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

The good news is that we can decide today to renew our minds. If we do, we will be transformed. What we all have control over is what we put into our minds.

Paul brings wisdom from Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Action Point
It is important that we dwell on the things in Philippians 4:8 so we will renew our minds in Christ.
(Tom Russell)

Devotionals for Daily Living 6/3/26Three Incredible Gifts from Our God What an incredible love our God has for us t...
06/03/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living 6/3/26

Three Incredible Gifts from Our God

What an incredible love our God has for us to offer us these three amazing gifts. The book of Jude v. 2 tells us, "God offers believers the abundance of his mercy, peace, and love."

Ephesians 2:4 states, "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, offers us mercy."

The book of Luke 6:36 tells us, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Our father wants us to be merciful just as He is merciful.

God also offers us His peace. In the book of Numbers 6:24-26 we read, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” How blessed we are that the Lord desires to bless us and keep us.

In the book of John 16:33 we read, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Our God wanted us to feel love that would lead to our peace of mind. He wanted us to know that even though things might get difficult in this world that we have a peace that comes from His presence.

Our God also is a God of love, which is another gift He has given us. Paul writes in Romans 8:37-39, "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” What a securing love that protects us against death, rulers, things present and things to come, as well as anything else.

Action Point
What will you do with God‘s mercy, peace and love?
(Tom Russell)

Devotionals for Daily LivingImportant Insights From Paul’s WritingsWith the dwindling number of people attending church ...
06/02/2026

Devotionals for Daily Living

Important Insights From Paul’s Writings

With the dwindling number of people attending church it is easy to relate our society to this passage Paul wrote in Ephesians 4:17-19, “So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.”

It is important that we turn from our sinful ways and realize that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Our bodies are our responsibility. Because we are the temple of the Holy Spirit, it is important that we embrace a relationship with God.

Paul writes in II Corinthians 6:16, “What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: ‘I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.’”
What an incredible feeling to know that God dwells in us and walks among us. It is so powerful to think that He claims us as His people.

Action Point
Are you living in the futility of your mind? It is important to receive what Jesus did on the cross so you can be part of the people of God.
(Tom Russell)

Address

1066 Lexington Avenue
Mansfield, OH
44907

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 8pm
Tuesday 8am - 8pm
Wednesday 8am - 8pm
Thursday 8am - 8pm
Friday 8am - 8pm
Saturday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+14195265523

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