"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." -Romans 12:12 (NIV) Easter is only a few weeks away, and that time of year is upon us when we further devote ourselves to seeking Christ through prayer, fasting, and the contemplation of scripture.  It's called Lent, the 40-day period of reflection that mirrors Jesus' time of preparation in the wilderness, deepening our relationship with our Lord through prayer and fasting.  As we set aside some of our worldly distractions to focus on Jesus, let us always be reminded of the unmerited gift of salvation we have all received and be ever thankful.

Whispers from Heaven Children’s Book Collection By: Belinda Dawn Allen Faith-filled stories for little hearts, trusted by big hearts. Whispers from Heaven is a thoughtfully written children’s book collection created to support the emotional, spiritual, and character development of young readers. Authored by longtime educator and children’s ministry advocate Belinda Dawn Allen, this series gently weaves biblical truth into relatable, everyday moments that children experience at home, in school, and within their communities. Each story invites children to pause, reflect, and listen for God’s loving guidance through themes such as kindness, emotional awareness, forgiveness, gratitude, courage, friendship, and resilience. The narratives are especially meaningful for counselors, educators, and caregivers seeking developmentally appropriate tools that encourage healthy conversations around feelings, faith, and values. Designed for ages 3–10, the collection serves as an excellent supplemental resource for Christian counselors, schools, churches, and families. Stories may be used during counseling sessions, classroom discussions, devotional time, or quiet moments of reflection, offering gentle reassurance and hope in a way children can understand.   Whispers from Heaven helps children discover that God’s love is present in every season of life—and that even the smallest whisper can guide their hearts in big ways. Ideal for: Christian counselors & therapists Counselor education programs Elementary educators & school libraries Children’s ministry leaders Parents & caregivers Core themes: Faith • Emotional wellness • Compassion • Character building • God’s gentle guidance About The Author Becoming an author is the joyful third chapter of Belinda Dawn Allen’s professional journey. A lifelong educator at heart, she spent many years teaching and inspiring young minds before retiring—a season that only deepened her passion for encouraging children to learn, dream, and grow. From an early age, Belinda dreamed of writing books, especially stories for children. Now, she blends her love of storytelling with her heart for faith, family, and life lessons, creating tales that are both entertaining and meaningful. Her books often weave together themes of kindness, gratitude, courage, and God’s unfailing love—values she has cherished throughout her life. When she’s not writing, Belinda enjoys time with her family, especially her grandson Gabriel, who inspires many of her stories. She finds joy in long walks along the shore, conversations over coffee, and serving in her church and community. Belinda believes that every story can be a seed of hope planted in a child’s heart, and she writes with the prayer that her words will leave a lasting impression—reminding young readers that they are deeply loved, wonderfully made, and never alone.

Many believers know what the Bible says about their identity in Christ. Yet, even with that knowledge, they often struggle to truly feel it or live it out. Fear, rejection, anxiety, and feelings of unworthiness can quietly shape how people see themselves. The 40-Day Identity in Christ Reset was created to help believers realign their hearts and minds with God’s truth. This experience invites Christians into a deeper relationship with the Lord while helping them rediscover the identity He has already given them. Why Identity in Christ Matters Our identity shapes how we think, how we respond to challenges, and how we relate to God and others. When we believe false labels about ourselves—such as “I’m not enough,” “I’m rejected,” or “I’m powerless”—those beliefs can limit our spiritual growth and emotional well-being. The truth is that God calls believers to live from a different place. Scripture reminds us: “Beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, we are being transformed into His image from glory to glory.” (2 Corinthians 3:18) When we learn to see ourselves the way God sees us, transformation begins to happen from the inside out. What the 40-Day Reset Is About The 40-Day Identity in Christ Reset is designed to guide believers into a daily practice of focusing on biblical truths about their identity. Instead of simply learning information, participants are encouraged to sit with these truths and allow them to shape their thinking and spiritual life. Many Christians struggle with common challenges such as: Difficulty calming their thoughts Trouble meditating on Scripture Knowing biblical truth but not experiencing it Starting spiritual habits but struggling to stay consistent This reset experience provides a structure that helps believers slow down and reconnect with God in meaningful ways. A Journey Toward Peace and Spiritual Clarity Participants often report powerful changes during the process. As they spend intentional time reflecting on their identity in Christ, many experience: Greater peace Deeper connection with God Emotional healing Increased confidence in sharing their faith A clearer sense of purpose Research connected to the program found that over 90% of participants experienced life-changing impact when they practiced focusing on identity-in-Christ truths . These results show how powerful it can be when believers move beyond simply knowing Scripture and begin to internalize it. The Heart Behind the Reset The program was developed by Dr. Lisa Winchell , an NCCA-licensed Christian counselor with more than 25 years of experience helping individuals overcome struggles such as fear, rejection, addiction, and relational pain. Her passion is not only to teach biblical truth but to help people experience the freedom and confidence that comes from living in agreement with what God says about them. Breaking Free from False Labels Many Christians unknowingly carry identities that God never gave them. Labels like: Fearful Angry Unworthy Insignificant These beliefs can create emotional and spiritual barriers that keep believers from fully stepping into their calling. The 40-Day Reset helps participants replace those false identities with the truth found in Christ. An Invitation to Experience Transformation Spiritual growth often begins with a simple decision—to pause, refocus, and seek God with intention. The 40-Day Identity in Christ Reset offers believers a guided opportunity to do just that. By spending intentional time with God and reflecting on His truth, participants can begin to see themselves through His eyes. And when believers agree with God about who they truly are, it can change everything.

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." -Gal. 6:2 (NIV) It's a wonderful thing to be in the body of Christ, but it comes with responsibility. There are many who are suffering when we are not, which affords us the opportunity to share their burdens and help carry their load as Christ carries ours. Let us lift up one another in prayer and offer the counsel of scripture to those who suffer and are burdened. The NCCA staff prays every morning for our members and their families. Please tell us if you have a special prayer request, and we will help carry your burdens.

Click On Image For More Info Jesus Calling for Easter-Exclusive FaithGateway Edition Celebrate the hope and renewal of the Easter season with the updated Jesus Calling® for Easter, now featuring a stunning, modern cover designed exclusively for FaithGateway. This special edition offers the same meaningful content that has inspired millions, paired with an elegant new design that makes it a perfect addition to your devotional collection or an unforgettable gift for loved ones. With 50 seasonally inspired devotions from Sarah Young's beloved Jesus Calling®, this book invites you to deepen your connection to Christ as you reflect on: The transformative truths of the resurrection Renewed hope for a new season The boundless joy of Easter celebrations Beautifully updated imagery and design Written-out Bible verses for easy reflection   Whether you're seeking a fresh way to engage with the story of Christ’s death and resurrection or gifting a loved one a meaningful keepsake, this exclusive FaithGateway edition of Jesus Calling® for Easter will inspire your heart and enrich your Easter season for years to come.

Redoma Christian College An NCCA Certified Academic Institution About Redoma Christian College –The Legacy of Light and Love Redoma Christian College is a ministry-driven institution under the leadership of its Director-Founder, Dr. Yeny Vargas, committed to equipping professionals who bring emotional, spiritual, and mental healing through Christian counseling. Rooted in the mission of the National Christian Counselors Association, Redoma combines rigorous academic excellence with deep spiritual formation to empower students for ministry with compassion, integrity, and authority. Whether through associate or doctoral programs, the college invites its graduates not simply to practice counseling but to embrace their identity as ministers of hope and restoration. With a strong emphasis on prayer before, during, and after every session, and a firm commitment to walking in the authority of Christ, Redoma stands out in the world of Christian counseling. Carmenza Mosquera, Certified Christian Counselor A Sacred Encounter at Redoma Christian College The presence of Drs. Richard and Phyllis Arno at the Redoma Christian College graduation was far more than an academic event—it was a sacred encounter. Their words, their joy, and the grace they carried reminded us that this ministry of Christian counseling is not simply about knowledge—it is about the heart of God touching lives. From the moment they arrived, there was something profoundly refreshing about them. Though they had traveled from afar, they radiated energy, peace, and contagious joy. It was impossible not to be moved by the vitality they still display after so many years of faithful service. Their presence was a living testimony that those who walk in the calling of God are continually renewed by His Spirit. The Power of Prayer in Counseling Dr. Phyllis spoke with the tenderness and wisdom of a spiritual mother. Her words were simple, yet deeply powerful. She reminded us of the importance of prayer—not only before beginning a counseling session, but with  and over  each client—inviting the Holy Spirit to be the true Counselor. She encouraged us to release every session into the hands of God and to allow His Spirit to guide both counselor and counselee in the process of healing. That teaching changed the way I now approach every session. It reminded me that the anointing of the Holy Spirit is the true foundation of Christian counseling. “Pray before you enter a session, pray with your client, and pray over them before they leave—because only the Holy Spirit can bring true healing.” A Joyful Legacy of Faith Dr. Richard, with his characteristic joy and sense of humor, reflected the gentleness and stability of a man who has spent a lifetime serving others. He reminded us that joy is a fruit of the Spirit and an essential part of ministry. His humor lightened hearts while his words carried deep truth—urging us to embrace our authority as ministers  and to declare with confidence, “I am clergy.” Together, the Arnos embody unity, humility, and passion for the calling God has entrusted to them.  Their message and example reaffirmed that we are part of something much greater than ourselves—a legacy of faith that continues to impact the nations. A Vision Beyond Borders Before the ceremony, Dr. Phyllis shared that she had recently met a student from the Philippines who desires to bring Christian counseling training to her country. She spoke with such compassion about the global need for emotional and spiritual maturity, and about the NCCA’s commitment to helping equip leaders around the world. Listening to her, I could sense her heart beating for the nations, her passion to see lives transformed far beyond borders or languages. Gratitude and Renewal What I saw that day went beyond words—it was the visible manifestation of a calling lived out with consistency, joy, and purpose. The Drs. Arno showed us that the true measure of ministry is not time, but the love with which we serve. At Redoma Christian College , we are profoundly grateful to God for the privilege of receiving them. Their visit ignited in each of us a deeper sense of purpose—to counsel not merely with technique, but with compassion, guided by prayer and empowered by the Holy Spirit. To Drs. Richard and Phyllis Arno, thank you—for your unwavering faith, your example of unity, and your devotion to helping God’s people find healing and wholeness. May the Lord continue to renew your strength, multiply your joy, and expand your influence as you inspire generations to come.

By: Dr. Phyllis J. Arno Before we examine unforgiveness, we must first understand forgiveness. FORGIVENESS Forgiveness means releasing the offenses others have committed against you. Many people struggle with forgiveness because they believe it requires them to forget what happened or pretend the injustice did not occur. That is not what forgiveness means. Forgiveness is choosing peace over bitterness. It does not excuse the wrongdoing. It does not justify the behavior. Instead, it releases you from carrying the emotional burden of the offense. Forgiveness is not approval — it is freedom. Scripture teaches us: “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32) When Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sinned against him — up to seven times — Jesus answered: “I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:21–22) Forgiveness is not optional. It is essential. Jesus also taught: “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14–15) This is a sobering truth. If we refuse to forgive, we hinder our own forgiveness. We also pray: “And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us…” (Luke 11:4) What Forgiveness Is Not (Adapted from Dr. Sherrie Anderson) Forgiveness is not forgetting. You may remember what happened, but it no longer controls you. Forgiveness is not denying the hurt. It begins by acknowledging that something real and painful occurred. Forgiveness is not the same as reconciliation. Reconciliation requires repentance and rebuilding trust. Forgiveness can occur even if the other person never changes. Forgiveness is not excusing wrongdoing. It does not call sin acceptable. It recognizes the wrong and still chooses release. Forgiveness is not avoiding justice. It means placing justice in God’s hands rather than taking revenge. Forgiveness is not waiting for the pain to disappear. Often, forgiveness is chosen while the wound is still healing. Forgiveness is not letting someone “off the hook.” It is letting yourself off the hook of bitterness and resentment. Forgiveness is not suppressing anger. It involves honestly facing your emotions and surrendering them to God. Forgiveness is not a feeling — it is a choice. Feelings may follow, but forgiveness begins with a decision. UNFORGIVENESS Unforgiveness is holding tightly to the offenses others have committed against you. You have likely heard people say, “I will never forgive.” Even Christians sometimes speak this way. When people are hurt, angered, or offended, they may seek revenge, withdraw, or justify their anger rather than address the wound. Some believe they have the “right” to remain angry. Others feel they are punishing the offender by withholding forgiveness. But Scripture tells us: “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves… for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord… Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:19–21) Unforgiveness does not punish the offender — it poisons the heart of the one who carries it. RESULTS OF UNFORGIVENESS Unforgiveness affects a person physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It can result in: Emotional turmoil Physical stress and suffering Spiritual stagnation A hindered relationship with the Father (Psalm 66:18) Blocked forgiveness (Mark 11:25–26) When individuals refuse to forgive, they separate themselves from God’s flow of grace. Forgiveness restores fellowship. Unforgiveness builds walls. A MATTER OF ETERNAL CONSEQUENCE God is not cruel. God is love (Colossians 3:15–17). He desires redemption, not condemnation. He gives every person the freedom to choose. Hell is not about God being harsh or vindictive. It is the result of rejecting His love and refusing His way. We cannot blame God for the consequences of our choices. Forgiveness is part of walking in His light rather than remaining in darkness. COUNSELING RECOMMENDATIONS When counseling individuals struggling with unforgiveness: If they are not saved, ask if they desire to receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Teach them about God’s forgiveness through Scripture. Pray for the strength to forgive as they have been forgiven. Encourage restoration where possible. Recommend involvement in Bible study or prayer groups. Provide specific Scriptures for meditation. Remind them that forgiveness is not optional. Teach that forgiveness brings freedom. Emphasize that eternal choices have eternal consequences. Help them understand that forgiveness does not excuse others’ actions — it protects their own heart. Encourage them to release vengeance to the Lord. Above all, remind them that forgiveness reflects the heart of God. We are not only counselors and teachers — we are encouragers. UNFORGIVENESS AND THE CHOLERIC TEMPERAMENT In the area of Inclusion (the need for recognition and acceptance), a Choleric may struggle with unforgiveness when: Their efforts go unrecognized Others take credit for their work They lose control of a situation Their leadership is not respected They become intolerant of others’ weaknesses In the area of Control (decision-making and authority), unforgiveness may arise when: Their authority is challenged They feel resisted at every turn They struggle to delegate They feel they are not receiving deserved recognition In the area of Affection (deep relationships), unforgiveness may result from: Betrayal Loss of control in close relationships Expecting love to be expressed on their terms Regardless of the area — Inclusion, Control, or Affection — the Choleric temperament may be especially prone to holding onto anger and seeking control rather than choosing forgiveness. But temperament does not excuse sin. Forgiveness is still a choice. CONCLUSION Forgiveness is not a feeling. It is a decision. Unforgiveness binds. Forgiveness frees. To forgive is to walk in obedience, reflect Christ’s character, and protect your own heart from destruction. We must move from darkness into light. We must release revenge to God. We must choose forgiveness. Because forgiveness is freedom. Dr. Phyllis Arno Co-Founder of NCCA

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint," -Isaiah 40:31 KJV I appreciate the image God paints for us with this scripture. He reassures us that when our strength is weakened, we need only to wait on Him to be renewed so that we may soar again like eagles.​ I encourage anyone who may feel weary to wait for the wind of His Spirit to lift you again.

Let us celebrate and honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., whom we commemorate on this day. He was a gifted preacher, a dynamic speaker, and a champion of civil rights.   His call for peace unified the American public in a common cause to treat one another with respect and dignity, a message that tragically cost him his life, but one which we should continue to uphold in our nation today. "True Peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Click The Book To Learn More Experience the Advent season in a whole new way and prepare your heart to celebrate the greatest gift of all. Join pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado as he invites you to bear witness to the birth of Christ as you've never seen it before. Advent is a season of anticipation, a celebration of the moment that God came near. He came, not as a flash of light or as an unapproachable conqueror, but as one whose first cries were heard by a peasant girl and a sleepy carpenter. Let In the Manger guide you through each of the 25 days of Advent with: A Bible verse to deeply reflect on An inspirational passage from some of Max's most popular books, including 3:16 , God Came Near , The Applause of Heaven and more A prayer to help you apply the day's message Join Mary and Joseph inside a stable, beside a shepherd, and at the feet of the King in the manger as you celebrate the greatest gift of all.

By Dr. Phyllis J. Arno Matthew 5:14–16 (KJV): “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” The greatest gift that God has ever given us is His Son, Jesus Christ . Because of this precious gift, we are offered eternal life . This gift did not come beautifully wrapped with a big red bow from a department store. Instead, it came humbly— from a manger , wrapped in swaddling clothes . When God gave us this gift, it was an expression of His perfect love  for you and for me. He longs to have a personal relationship  with each of us. He knows that we will stumble and fall, yet He is always there—holding out His arm and saying: Matthew 11:28 (KJV): “Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” This Christmas season, let us reflect on how we can shine God’s love into a dark world , just as the light of heaven shone when the angels appeared to the shepherds. Reflecting God’s Love Through the Temperaments The Choleric  can reflect God’s love by using their gift of leadership  to bring people together. They are especially effective at organizing Christmas activities such as neighborhood caroling, dinners, and Christmas pageants. The Melancholy  can reflect God’s love through their creativity —making Christmas gifts, building and designing sets, writing pageants and music, and playing or singing Christmas hymns. The Phlegmatic  can reflect God’s love by using their peacemaking spirit  and keen eye for detail . They are well-suited for activities that require patience, precision, and faithfulness in completing detailed or behind-the-scenes tasks. The Sanguine  can reflect God’s love through their enthusiasm and love for people . They often enjoy participating in church services, dinners, Christmas caroling, and volunteering to deliver food and gifts. The Supine  can reflect God’s love through their heart for serving . They joyfully prepare food, set and decorate tables, serve meals, clean up afterward, wash dishes, fold chairs, assemble and dismantle sets for plays—doing whatever needs to be done to bless others. All of the temperaments can reflect God’s love at Christmas —and all year long. Practical Ways to Reflect God’s Love This Christmas During the Christmas season, all temperaments are encouraged to remember to: Keep Christ at the center of Christmas —this is His  birthday. Maintain balance , avoiding overload and unnecessary stress. Look for ways to show God’s love  to those around you—be a reflection of His light. Ephesians 5:2 (KJV): “And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour.” Ephesians 5:8 (KJV): “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light.”

By Phyllis J. Arno, Ph.D. The 2025 NCCA Conference was held in the beautiful city of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, bringing together members for a powerful and enriching time of fellowship, learning, and ministry. Thursday Evening The conference began on Thursday evening with registration from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., followed by a Kickoff Session from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., led by Dr. Jeanne Kuckelman, which set the tone for an inspiring weekend. Friday Friday featured a full day of impactful sessions: Welcome Address  Presented by Rev. Steven M. Baran , President of NCCA Session 1: Unforgiveness  Presented by Dr. Phyllis Arno , with Dr. Richard Arno  sharing personal life experiences Session 2: Trauma and Temperament, Spiritual Illness and Recovery  Presented by Dr. Joshua Wells Session 3: Five-Fold Formula for Success—Aligning Your Inner Circle with God’s Design  Presented by Dr. Deborah Skomba Sessions 4 & 5: Maximum Counseling Ministry with Minimal Liability  Presented by NCLL Session 6: Being Confident in the Temperament Counseling Framework  Presented by Dr. Damita Lucas Session 7: Building Blocks to Wholeness  Presented by Pastor Ronald Haskins Friday evening concluded with a wonderful time of fellowship at the House of Blues Friday Night Gospel Brunch , where the food was delicious, and the music was truly uplifting. Saturday Saturday continued with another full day of enriching sessions: Sessions 8 & 9: Spirit-Directed Self-Talk—Integrating Temperament and Cognitive Behavioral Techniques  Presented by Dr. David Smuin  and Dr. Kevin Hiscock Sessions 10 & 11: Helping Those Who Grieve  Presented by Angie Smuin Sessions 12 & 13: A Tour of Your Brain—Renewing the Mind, and Anatomy of a Stronghold  Presented by Bob Hamp Session 14: Speaker Panels A Big Thank You Goes To… Rev. Steve Baran , NCCA President, for his outstanding leadership in securing the conference location and overseeing the many behind-the-scenes efforts required to make the conference a success. Rev. Baran also served as Master of Ceremonies  and generously provided one-on-one guidance to members. Jason Ferrill , for his tremendous help in conference preparation and coordination with hotel staff. Michael Andrews , for exceptional technical support and assistance to conference attendees. Jen Miserendino , for her help with the photo booth and her willingness to assist wherever needed. Mara Baran , for doing a fantastic job laying out the conference notebook. Michael Dan, Linda Walker, and Brian Colvin , for keeping the main headquarters open to serve members who were unable to attend. Dr. Richard Arno , for his cheerful and encouraging presence throughout the conference. And a very special THANK YOU  to everyone who attended—both in person and virtually ! It was truly a JOY  to be with you all. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF OUR NCCA FAMILY!   May you have a blessed and joyful Christmas  and a Happy New Year!