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The 2019 NCCA Conference was held at the Embassy Suites by Hilton, Cary, NC on October 18-19, 2019. Registration and Meet & Greet were on Thursday evening, October 17th, from 7-9 pm. On Friday, October 18th, we had a full day of sessions consisting of: SESSION 1: “ADDRESSING THE COUNSELING NEEDS OF MILITARY MEN AND WOMEN, THOSE IN POLICE SERVICE, VETERANS AND OTHERS WITH VESTED AUTHORITY” was presented by Rev. Jerry Richards. He shared it was his immense privilege to stand amongst experts at this year’s NCCA conference as we came together in order to serve our Living God and His world. The opportunity to share some of the things I have learned in treating Armed Servicemen and women, Police Members, EMS Members and Veterans of all stripes was humbling. The issue of men and women serving, regardless of their APS type has led to a deluge of people struggling to identify with their service requirements and experiences. Coming to terms with these challenges is essential for the Christian Counselor. My introduction to these issues was well received, and the remarks and comments from my fellow professionals both at the conference and since has added to the experience for me. SESSIONS 2 & 3: “BACK TO BASICS” were presented by Pastor Joe and Dr. Merrie Kaye. The first session included topics such as: I. What needs to be our ministry basic and why? A. Why do we need to focus on the Bible as our basic? B. How might we veer off this basic? C. How might we stay accountable to keeping the Bible as our basic? II. What is a ministry ‘lane’ and what is the basic NCCA ministry game-lane or ‘lane’? A. How can we define our ministry ‘lane’ using the APS as our fundamental? B. How can we build solid guard-rails to keep our ministry from veering off its defined lane? C. What are the benefits from having strong ministry guard-rails? II. Final thoughts: The second session included topics such as: I. Basic #1 – The Bible: Role Playing – The Gospel Message. II. Basic #2 – The APS: Role Playing—Introduction to the APS. SESSION 4 & 5: “MAXIMUM COUNSELING MINISTRY WITH MINIMAL LIABILITY” were presented by Attorney David Gibbs III. He gave us a Legal Update for 2019. Both sessions were enlightening and helpful for our counselors. SESSION 6: “GROW YOUR MINISTRY WITH SEMINARS AND SUPPORT GROUPS was presented by Dr. Robert J. Duncan, Jr. He covered such topics as: What are the #1 questions about ministry--Marketing? How can I grow my ministry--Organization? How can I grow my ministry--Sustainability? 90 days to a new ministry level. Seminar Outline. Revenue Impact from Seminars. Support Groups, Revenue Impact from Support Groups, Support Group Outline. This session also included two case studies. SESSION 7: “CRITICAL REVIEW OF YOUR INTAKE PROCESS” was presented by Rev. Steven M. Baran. His session included: Who are you? Informed Consent Disclosure MUST HAVES. Important to share the process/expectations. Authority to Counsel. Mandatory Reporting, Confidentiality- Minors Under age 18. Confidentiality-Adults. Discontinuation of Services by the Client. Discontinuation of Service by Counselor. List is not Exhaustive rather just a start. Payment. COMEDY EVENT WITH ANDREW STANLEY! From 7:00-9:00. Andrew is an Atlanta-based stand-up comedian with a dry sense of humor. We enjoyed his comedy act. It was a nice way to relax after a full day of learning. He was recently named the grand prize winner of the 2017 Search for the South’s Funniest Accountant. On Saturday, October 19th, we had a full day of sessions consisting of: SESSION 8: “COUNSELING THE PHLEGMATIC CHOLERIC IN INCLUSION, CONTROL, AND AFFECTION.” I presented this session. I explained that when you combine the Phlegmatic with any of the other four temperaments, you have a “blended temperament.” In other words, when you have a Phlegmatic blend, you have a totally separate temperament and you must counsel them as a separate temperament—not just as a Phlegmatic, Choleric, Melancholy, Sanguine or Supine. I also reviewed the Expressive and Responsive (wanted) area of the blend temperaments. SESSION 9: “A JOINT SESSION WITH THE FOUNDERS.” Dr. Arno and I presented this session. We shared some “gold nuggets” regarding counseling such as scheduling breaks in between your counseling sessions so that you have time to review the incoming counselee’s information, and so that you can seek the Lord in prayer for guidance as you counsel each person. I found two prayer suggestions in my devotional that are really great. They are “Jesus, keep me aware of your Presence,” and “Thank you, Jesus, for your Presence.” PLEASE REMEMBER, BE A “SAFE PLACE” FOR YOUR COUNSELEES TO COME TO SHARE THEIR BURDENS. Also, Dr. Arno shared a story from his new book “God Sent an Angel.” SESSION 10: “If I Had a Hammer" was presented by Dr. Tim and Sheryl Brewer. They stated that many marital issues that we are dealing with in our practice actually come from men and women not living and serving in their God-ordained roles.  One of the most important facets to bringing marriages into alignment in addition to temperament is mentoring men to be the leader that God intends for them to be in the home.  This process of leadership embraces the idea of valuing each spouse without the dynamic of any partner losing their individual identities. We have developed an ongoing and evolving process to help men and women to realize their roles and have clarity in the potential of them walking successfully in what they are called by God to do. SESSION 11: “The Father Ladder: Lies vs Truth" was presented by Dr. Al Jones. He stated that there is a need to clarify the connections between the lies that have been learned from childhood and the relationships we have formed with each member of the Godhead. He explained about the human family: When family members fail to fulfill their roles, the resulting pain and confusions can easily transfer to our understanding of God the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. SESSION 12: “Shame: Identity Thief" was presented by Dr. Al Jones. He stated that there are two types of shame: True shame or healthy guilt and false or toxic shame. He shared with us that shame is a master emotion; what shame leads to; Shame Shifts Blame; Emotional indicators of Shame; the Bondage of Shame, Development of Toxic Shame, Generational Shame, Shame Brings Addition; Characteristics of Shame, The Answer to Shame, Maintaining Shame, How do we Begin to Change?; Identifying the Lies I have believed; Wrong Views of God. SESSION 13: “Considerations for the Temperament Counselor” was presented by Dr. Jeanne Kuckelman. She cited: “God I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares.” She also gave us foundational principles: 1. Know; 2. Understand; and 3. Learn. SESSION 14: “Practical Application of Key Concepts” was presented by Dr. Jeanne Kuckelman. She discussed DISINTEGRATED – the process of losing cohesion or strength, and INTEGRATION – a process that combines or brings together two or more entities in order to gain strength and effectiveness. A BIG THANKS GOES TO…. Rev. Baran, N.C.C.A. President, for his leadership abilities in lining up the conference location and all the behind the scene efforts that it takes to make a conference a success. Rev. Baran was also the Master of Ceremonies, and was available to give guidance to our members on a one-on-one basis. Jason Ferrill for all his work in helping to prepare for the conference, and working with the hotel staff during the conference. Michael Andrews for his tech support as well as assisting the NCCA conference attendees during the conference. Mark Winchell for his member care support in assisting the NCCA conference attendees during the conference. Tina Adams for helping with the registrations and assisting at the NCCA table. Mara Baran for doing a fantastic job laying out the conference notebook, assisting at the NCCA table and manning the Photo Booth. Michael Dan, Linda Walker and Brian Colvin for keeping the main headquarters open to service our members who were unable to attend the conference. Dr. Richard Arno for his smiling face and cheerful presence during the conference. And a very big THANK YOU to all of you who attended the conference! It was such a JOY to be with you! Most of all, we would like to thank the Lord for anointing the conference as we were all truly BLESSED. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND MAY YOU HAVE A BLESSED, JOYFUL HAPPY NEW YEAR! If you were unable to join us in Raleigh you can purchase digital audio downloads of the full set or individual sessions by clicking here - https://ncca-org.myshopify.com/products/4291243212933 We look forward to seeing you all in Dallas, TX on October 30-31 for the 2020 NCCA Conference.

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou has made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tred upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Thou shalt tred upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation. FEAR FEAR IS A BIG BULLY AND PREYS ON ALL OF THE TEMPERAMENTS! Fear can keep us locked up in a prison of darkness. But YOU have the key to get out of this prison of darkness. The key is Jesus! We need to trust that Jesus will get rid of the bully. How? Jesus is the Light of the World, and the darkness has to run from Him. And Jesus always keeps His Word. For example, take a flashlight and shine the light in a dark place and see what happens—the darkness disappears! The same thing will happen with our fears because Jesus is our Light—our fears will disappear! The Holy Scriptures tell us: “Fear not.” It is in our Bible over 70 times and tells us that God is always here for us; however, sometimes, when we are going through the valleys, we tend to let fear creep in and take over. Encouraging Scriptures regarding fear: Isaiah 41:10: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Joshua 1:5: “I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Psalm 23:4, 5: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 27:1: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” Psalm 56:11: “In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.” Hebrews 13:6: “So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” II Timothy 1:7: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” I John 4:18: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF THE FEARS IN THE INCLUSION AREA OF THE MELANCHOLY AND SHINE THE LIGHT OF JESUS ON THEM. In review, Inclusion is the need to establish and maintain satisfactory relationships with people in the area of surface relationships. (This includes association and socialization.) It also encompasses a person’s intellectual energies. 1. FEAR OF REJECTION Melancholies in Inclusion tend to fear rejection from people and will tend to reject them first. This is because they do not relate well to people and do not understand them. Since they tend to think a great deal, this fear of rejection may only be perceived. They need to learn to yield their thoughts to Jesus. They must remember: They are the guardians of their mind and, as guardians, they need to continually submit their fears of rejection to Jesus. If they do this, Jesus will alleviate their fears. Therefore, they need to learn to shine the light of Jesus on their fears of rejection and learn that He loves them. One of the old hymns tells us: “More secure is no one ever than the loved one of the Savior.” When you feel secure in God’s love, you will not tend to fear rejection from people. Hebrews 13:5b, 6 tells us: “…I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” 2. FEAR OF SOCIALIZING Melancholies in Inclusion tend to have the fear of socializing because they do not relate well to people; they relate better to doing tasks. They tend to fear that people will make demands on them to interact—demands that will make them feel uncomfortable. If Melancholies in Inclusion are required to attend social functions, they would probably feel more comfortable working in the background doing tasks such as setting up sound equipment, building scenery, painting, cooking, etc. When they have a task to perform, they can avoid being drawn into interacting with people; however, if someone draws them into a conversation, they will do the listening and may even talk about their work or the weather. They usually do not like to be questioned regarding their personal life as they prefer not to share their personal thoughts and feelings. They need to learn to shine the light of Jesus on their fears of socializing so that they can comfortably interact and fellowship with God’s people. I John 1:7 tells us: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 3. FEAR OF IMPERFECTION OF SELF AND OTHERS Melancholies in Inclusion tend to fear that they do not measure up to their own ideals of perfection; therefore, no one else could ever see them as perfect either. In their own eyes they are never perfect enough. Since they cannot see perfection within themselves, they will then tend to look at others thinking that they are perfect; however, Melancholies in Inclusion soon find out that others also have imperfections. They may even begin to think to themselves: “Nobody is perfect and nobody can be perfect.” Therefore, to compensate for their own feelings of imperfection or inadequacy they may become highly critical of others. Melancholies in Inclusion need to know that only Jesus is totally perfect and that they need to give themselves and others the freedom to be imperfect. They need to learn to shine the light of Jesus on their fears of imperfection. They need to remember that Jesus is Perfection, and that as they yield their strengths and weaknesses to Him, He will do the perfecting in them as well as in others. Then, Melancholies in Inclusion will truly be able to accept themselves and others as God created them to be and will know that we are all works in progress. II Samuel 22:33 tells us: “God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect.” Psalm 138:8 tells us: “The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth forever: forsake not the works of thine own hands." 4. FEAR OF DEATH AND DYING Melancholies in Inclusion tend to fear death and dying. They tend to have many questions such as: “Will I linger in pain and die a slow death?” “Will I be able to take care of myself?” “Who will take care of me if I can’t take care of myself?” “Will I have to leave my home and go to a health care center?” The reason they have all of these questions in their mind is that they usually do not want to leave their home or even want to live with one of their children, and they do not want to live in a nursing home. This is because their home is their “castle,” their “safe haven” away from the rest of the world, and also, they do not want to have strangers take care of them. They will not usually talk to people about this because they do not want them to know of their fears; but they will tend to think about all of this constantly. If they continually dwell on thoughts of death, and dying they may even think about committing suicide to escape these thoughts and to escape the inevitable—leaving their home. They need to learn to shine the light of Jesus on their fears of death and dying. They need to learn that He is their true “safe haven” and they can always “run to Him.” Psalm 23:4 tells us: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me.” Isaiah 41:10 tells us: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” 5. FEAR OF FINANCIAL INSECURITY Melancholies in Inclusion tend to be concerned about their finances. Some tend to need to pay cash for everything; some tend to need to have a certain amount of money in their pocket; some tend to need to buy land as an investment; some will tend to clip coupons; and some will tend to only buy items that are on sale. If they have investments, they will tend to watch the stock market reports daily. If the market goes down, they tend to become fearful and become insecure. Melancholies in Inclusion may tend to feel insecure with their job. They may think: “What will I do if I lose my job?” “How will I support myself and my family?” Dwelling on financial insecurities may even cause them to entertain suicidal thoughts to escape the pressure. They need to learn to shine the light of Jesus on their fears of financial insecurity because God said that He will supply all their needs. Philippians 4:19 tells us: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Matthew 6:30 tells us: “Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you….?” CONCLUSION Melancholies in Inclusion need to shine the light of Jesus on their fears and learn that: God will never leave them or forsake them, and they do not have to fear rejection from people. God wants them to fellowship with other believers and be at peace with their neighbors and co-workers. God wants them to know that He will do the perfecting of others as well as of themselves. God wants them to trust in Him, and not to fear death and dying as He is with them always. God wants them to trust in Him, and He will supply their needs. PLEASE NOTE: These are temperament tendencies, and, as always, while you are counseling the Melancholy in Inclusion you must take into consideration their walk with the Lord, learned behavior, personality and birth order. In the next issue, we will look at FEARS in the Inclusion area of the Phlegmatic.

Dr. Al Jones formed Head to Heart Restoration Ministry in 2006. In 2008 Head to Heart expanded to include being a Certified Academic Institution of the NCCA. The mission of Head to Heart Restoration Ministry is to bring emotional and spiritual wholeness to wounded and broken people through the power of Jesus Christ. Currently, there are five counselors ministering out of two offices in the Central Texas area. One of Head to Heart Restoration Ministry’s commitments is to raise up counselors to serve the community in and outside of the central Texas area. All of the Head to Heart counselors were students of Dr. Jones. The CAI program within Head to Heart utilizes the NCCA courses and the APS as the foundation for training students. In addition to the NCCA courses, Dr. Jones teaches interested students prayer ministry and inner healing techniques to help counselees receive deeper healing for damaged emotions, liberty from the past, and freedom from bondages. He hopes to one day develop an inner/emotional healing training manual for counselors and ministers. A new area of training is dealing with Negative Expectations. Negative Expectations are an unbiblical belief system that we have against ourselves, others, authorities, institutions, or God. They can come from things we, or others, speak over us. Some examples of Negative Expectations are: “I don’t deserve God’s blessings.” “I’ll probably fail.” “My children will rebel.” “People will never accept me.” Positive Expectations activate the Law of Faith. In Matthew 9: 27-31 Jesus healed two blind men. After he touched their eyes he said, “According to your faith let it be done to you” and their sight was restored. Their faith, a Positive Expectation, led to their healing. NEGATIVE EXPECTATIONS ACTIVATE FOUR LAWS Negative Expectations activate the Law of Faith in Reverse. The person who continually speaks over themselves, “I’ll probably fail” most likely will. They are activating their negative faith. Our negative talk and expectations often prove themselves to be accurate. We must guard what we speak over ourselves and others. Negative Expectations activate the Law of Judgment. Matthew 7:1 tells us, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” In any area where we judge ourselves or others, our lives will not go well. Judging ourselves or others puts us in a place of elevating ourselves to the position of God. We are making judgements, negative expectations, over our lives and the lives of others. Negative Expectations Activate the Law of Sowing and Reaping. The law of sowing and reaping tells us we will reap a harvest based on what we have sown. Galatians 6:7 states, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” When a farmer plants corn, the harvest yields corn. If we sow negative expectations, we will reap the results of those expectations. Negative Expectations Activate the Law of Multiplication. Hosea 8:7 tells us, “They sow the wind and reap the whirlwind.” When the farmer plants a bushel of seed, he reaps a much larger harvest than what he plants. As a young Christian I was told, “You can’t sow seed and expect or pray for crop failure.” Negative expectations grow bigger and bigger. The more negative we are the more negative we become. So what are the solutions to Negative Expectations? We have to realize and believe that by ourselves we can do nothing. Even Jesus said “the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.” (John 5:19,20,30). Remember, “For we live by faith, not by sight.” We must activate our Positive Expectations; faith. (II Corin. 5:7) Develop relationships with people who are positive and demonstrate a faith-filled walk. “We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” (Hebrews 6:12) Ask yourself questions to uncover Negative Expectations. For example: “Lord, what negative confessions come out of my mouth? What things do I believe that do not line up with scripture? What expectations rob me of love, joy and peace?” We need God to show us where we are creating and nurturing Negative Expectations so we can pray and come out of agreement with them. We need to have Holy Spirit Positive Expectations driven by faith. Faith is the catalyst that drives out Negative Expectations. Today is a great day to begin moving away from Negative Expectations and embrace faith-filled Positive Expectations. Speak words of life over yourself and others. Remember, God says, “I have set before you life and death, blessings and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.” Deuteronomy 30:19

“That You May Know” — Assurances from God in His Word. By Terry Zuehsow, with foreword by Mary Alice Minirth. If you are interested in a personalized version, click here. General books may take up to 2 weeks before shipping. Please contact us personally for information regarding bulk orders. To read more, visit here!

On Saturday, June 8th, 2019 we had our "Inaugural Commencement Ceremony". A total of 7 Graduates from New Jersey and Florida came together in beautiful Punta Gorda Florida for the celebration. Thursday, June 6, 2019, Open House We began our graduation weekend on Thursday, June 6th with our New Jersey Students arriving that afternoon and an Open House for potential students that evening. This event was well attended by our students, professors, and guests. As a result, we will have new students starting Creation Therapy in September and possibly satellite locations in Florida, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Friday, June 7th, 2019 Continuing Education Workshops On Friday, June 7th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm our Continuing Education Workshops convened at the Chamber of Commerce Boardroom in downtown Punta Gorda. The purpose of these workshops was to bring the students to the next level of their journey and training as Christian counselors. When the students arrived their reactions were priceless when they saw Drs. Richard and Phyllis Arno sitting in the room. Shock, excitement, and unbelief are the only words that could describe this moment. The Florida students and the New Jersey students were meeting each other, in person for the first time. It was wonderful to see their excitement to meet each other and the hugs and laughter they shared. Each student received a custom made tote bag with the school logo on it containing their cap, gown, graduation program booklet, and other school memorabilia. Our workshop leaders were, Drs. Richard and Phyllis Arno of Sarasota, Florida, Ms. Deborah Blackwell from Toms River, New Jersey and Dr. Jarett White of Howell, New Jersey.  Each workshop leader brought excellence and insight to our students from the perspective of their responsibility to stay healthy and whole in their Mind, Body, Soul, and Spirit. They challenged each of them to look deeper into their relationship with God and allow the Holy Spirit to guide them in all that they do naturally and spiritually, while gaining a greater insight about temperament for themselves and their potential counselees. Dr. Richard Arno shared life-changing stories and experiences that impacted the students in ways that words cannot fully describe.  Dr. Phyllis Arno shared insights into the temperament that continually gave students aha moments and an awareness that will forever change the way they look at themselves and those they serve in the field of Christian Counseling. This combination was power-packed. The humility of this amazing couple was humbling for all of us.  They showed such love and support to our students and our staff we will never be the same. We thank you and we appreciate all you do and all you’ve done. Dr. Jarett White - presented the last session of the day which examined Secondary Traumatic Stress Syndrome which can be characterized by vicarious traumatization, compassion fatigue, or prolonged exposure to traumatized clients who are in crisis. He pointed out that when working with traumatized individuals the counselor can be affected emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Therefore, it’s important that we receive the help we need as counselors, so that we are not affected by secondary traumatic stress. This includes ensuring that we have a mentor, relaxation exercises, work-life balance checks, and other self-care activities. This was a very interactive session that used journaling, short video clips, relaxation exercise, and visualization. The students really enjoyed it. That same evening we hosted a Meet & Greet for the students and their family and friends at the Four Points Sheraton downtown Punta Gorda on the Peace River.  It was a lovely evening with food, fellowship, and fun. Saturday, June 8th 2019 Inaugural Commencement Ceremony The Graduates started their special day with breakfast at the Visual Arts Center on Saturday, June 8th and Commencement began at 10am to a packed house. The Processional began with the Graduates, Staff and our Keynote speakers walking in to the Lauren Daigle’s song “Salt and Light”. Dr. Jarett White opened in prayer and the presence of the Lord filled the room. The emotions of the graduates were heighted when our guest soloist Shaunte Manuel, sang a soul-stirring rendition of “My Souls has been Anchored” by Milton Brunson followed up by “Halleluiah” led by Ebony Mattox our Mistress of Ceremony encouraging the audience to flow in the Spirit of worship that was in the room. Our Keynote speakers Drs. Richard and Phyllis Arno brought laughter, enlightenment, hope, and healing to all those present.  The graduates were given practical advice using the Arnos' real-life experience to help them on their journey of faith. They admonished them to live a life of prayer with a commitment to the Word of God, which would benefit both their personal lives as well as their ministry in Christian Counseling. The Graduates then received their numerous certifications, licenses, certificates, flowers, an NCCA, and God’s Word First school pin to commemorate this event. Dr. Zarita F. Mattox-Wright concluded the ceremony with prayer and a charge to the graduates to never stop learning, leaning on the Holy Spirit for support, always letting ethics and integrity be exemplified as they do what they have been called to do as Christian Counselors. The celebration continued with a delicious luncheon at The Wyvern Hotel to the music of the “Legacy Band”.  The graduates honored their professors Dr. Jarett White and Dr. Zarita F. Mattox-Wright with love gifts and an impromptu song “I need you to Survive” by Hezekiah Walker,  that had the whole restaurant on their feet. What an exciting weekend!  The graduates continued to fellowship that evening and the next morning, going to breakfast together before their flight back to New Jersey. The God’s Word First School of Christian Counseling Staff brought excellence to every aspect and detail of this Inaugural Commencement Ceremony and graduation weekend and we appreciate all they do. We look forward to this upcoming year trusting the Holy Spirit to lead, guide and provide all we need to fulfill God’s will and purpose for the students he entrusts to us. Striving for Excellence in all we do.

How did the apostle John know that, two thousand years after he lived, your life would need a fresh touch from God? How did John know that, at the beginning of a new millennium, our lives would be so busy, our focus so divided, our bodies so tired, our minds so bombarded, our families so attacked, our relationships so strained, our churches so programmed . . . that we would be desperate for the simplicity and the purity, the freedom and the fulfillment of a life lived in Jesus’ name? John probably didn’t know. But God did. That’s why He gives us Jesus! And that’s why, as Anne Graham Lotz reveals, John’s eyewitness account of Jesus’ life is unmistakably relevant to your life today. The same Jesus who turned water into wine is the One who provides for your needs at this very moment. Enter into His life and find your soul refreshed with Living Water. This new edition of Just Give Me Jesus contains an in-depth devotional guide to help you explore the words of John in a personal and practical way, either on your own or in a group. You’ll find inspiration and revelation as you study the Scripture more closely and record your reflections in space provided at the back of the book. Find out more

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou has made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tred upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Thou shalt tred upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation. FEAR FEAR IS A BIG BULLY AND PREYS ON ALL OF THE TEMPERAMENTS! Fear can keep us locked up in a prison of darkness. But YOU have the key to get out of this prison of darkness. The key is Jesus! We need to trust that Jesus will g et rid of the bully. How? Jesus is the Light of the World, and the darkness has to run from Him. And Jesus always keeps His Word. For example, take a flashlight and shine the light in a dark place and see what happens—the darkness disappears! The same thing will happen with our fears because Jesus is our Light—our fears will disappear! The Holy Scriptures tell us” “Fear not.” It is in our Bible over 70 times and tells us that God is always here for us; however, sometimes, when we are going through the valleys, we tend to let fear creep in and take over. Encouraging Scriptures regarding fear: Isaiah 41:10: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Joshua 1:5: “I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Psalm 23:4, 5: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 27:1: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” Psalm 56:11: “In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.” Hebrews 13:6: “So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” II Timothy 1:7: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” I John 4:18: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF THE FEARS IN THE INCLUSION AREA OF THE CHOLERIC AND SHINE THE LIGHT OF JESUS ON THEM. In review, Inclusion is the need to establish and maintain satisfactory relationships with people in the area of surface relationships. (This includes association and socialization.) It also encompasses a person’s intellectual energies. 1. FEAR OF BEING EXPOSED Cholerics in Inclusion tend to be afraid that people will find out who they really are. This is because they wear many “masks” or “hats.” They can become whomever it takes to accomplish their goals. Sometimes they do not even know “who” they are! They can be sweet and charming, cold, calculating and aloof, or just neutral—whatever it takes. Some Cholerics in Inclusion may even call themselves “The Great Pretender.” There was a song popular back in the 50’s called The Great Pretender, “pretending to be what I’m not, you see…..” Their fear of being exposed and of others finding out who they really are is a driving force that can lead them to burnout. They need to learn to shine the light of Jesus on their fears, and let Him expose the masks that they are wearing, as well as their negative thoughts about themselves. Philippians 4:8 tells us: "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." 2. FEAR OF SAYING NO WHEN ASKED TO ORGANIZE SOCIAL EVENTS Cholerics in Inclusion tend to be afraid to say no because they want and need the recognition and approval from those around them. The need for recognition and approval is a driving force and can lead to burnout. They need to learn to shine the light of Jesus on their fears of not receiving enough recognition and approval from those around them. God will give them all the recognition and approval they will ever need. Matthew 25:21 tells us: “His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant…” 3. FEAR OF NOT BEING ABLE TO LIVE UP TO THEIR OWN STANDARDS OF PERFECTION Cholerics in Inclusion are very hard on themselves, setting standards that even they can’t meet; then, because of their need for perfection, they will fear that they can’t measure up to their own standards and will tend to strive or push themselves to do better. The fear of not being able to live up to their own standards of perfection can lead to burnout. They need to learn to shine the light of Jesus on their fears of meeting their need for perfection. God only requires reasonable service. They need to learn that as they submit to God, He will do the perfecting. Hebrews 13:20-21: “Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” See also II Samuel 22:33: “God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect.” 4. FEAR OF OTHERS NOT LIVING UP TO THEIR STANDARDS OF PERFECTION Cholerics in Inclusion tend to fear delegating to others because they are afraid that they will not live up to their standards of perfection. If the others do not meet their standards of perfection, then the Choleric in Inclusion will tend to take over and cause themselves undue stress, all because they need to receive recognition and approval rather than criticism. The fear of delegating responsibilities to others that may not live up to their standards of perfection can lead to burnout. They need to learn to shine the light of Jesus on their fears of delegating to others and learn to allow others to be imperfect. God will do the perfecting in others as well as in themselves. Proverbs 16:3: “Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.” See also Hebrews 7:19: “For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.” CONCLUSION Cholerics in Inclusion need to learn that: God knows them and will reveal to them how to take off their “masks” and “hats” and truly serve Him. God will give them all the recognition and approval they will ever need. God only requires reasonable service. God will do the perfecting of others as well as themselves. God wants us to do our best, He knows that we are not perfect, but that we are all works in progress. PLEASE NOTE: These are temperament tendencies, and, as always, while you are counseling the Choleric in Inclusion you must take into consideration their walk with the Lord, learned behavior, personality and birth order. In the next issue, we will look at FEARS in the Inclusion area of the Melancholy.

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Matthew 13:45-46 (NIV) tells us: “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” God sees each of us as a pearl of great value.  He paid dearly for us with His Son, Jesus! We are more valuable and precious to Him than we can ever imagine! As counselors, people come to you hurting and broken; they tend to feel that they have no value, that they are invisible, hidden, overlooked, and that nobody cares. Can you, as a counselor, see them as a pearl of great value, as God does? Question: “Why is a pearl so valuable?” The answer is: “In order to have a pearl of great value, the pearl must go through a tremendous amount of irritation; and during the process, it becomes refined and beautiful.” Some pearls have more irritations than others, just as some people have more irritations than others. The people that come to you are going through irritations—emotionally, physically and/or spiritually. Many times when your counselees are going through their hurts, pains, and suffering, they tend to feel that there is no hope. You, as a temperament counselor, have a calling on your life—to help God’s hurting people. You are there to give them HOPE – Jesus! God wants you to see each person that comes to you as a “pearl of great value.” With the APS profile, God has given us insight into how He created us with our strengths, weaknesses, and needs—an inside look at His pearls of great value. Since you too have gone through a refining process with your hurts and suffering and pain, you can use what you have gone through to help and encourage your counselees. We are going to look at the Supine in Inclusion to see what may be irritating them and causing them stress in the Inclusion area: 1. Fear of Social Rejection: Supines in Inclusion want and need to interact with people; however, they tend to perceive rejection and will stand back and wait for a personal invitation rather than initiate. If they do not receive a personal invitation, they may isolate themselves and withdraw from people. This, in turn, will cause them stress as they need to interact with people. Physically: Because of their perceived fear of rejection, they may suffer from high blood pressure, stomach problems, headaches, ulcers, etc. Emotionally: Because of their perceived fear of rejection and feelings of having no value, they may find themselves on a roller-coaster ride full of self-pity and self-rejection. They tend to cry a lot because they are thinking that people do not like them. As a result, they want to run away from other people and themselves; however, as we all know, we cannot run away from ourselves. Spiritually: Because of their perceived fear of rejection, they may even fear that God will reject them, too. They may even think thoughts such as, “If people are going to reject me, God probably will, too.” Therefore, they need to learn: That God created them and accepts them just as they are and that it is all right to initiate. If they learn to initiate, it will alleviate many of their physical problems. That it is all right to have a good cry because crying helps them to relieve their stress. After a good cry, they can then take a deep breath and move forward. That God is always with them, so they are never alone. They need to take time to talk with God (and listen to Him), read the Holy Scriptures, surround themselves with songs of praise and worship, and find a church where they can fellowship with God’s people. See Isaiah 41:13: “For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” See also Hebrews 13:5: “…I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” 2.   Inability to say “no” Supines in Inclusion tend to be unable to just say “no.” They want to say “no,” but they are afraid that the people around them will be displeased or upset with them. This, in turn, will tend to cause them stress. Physically: Because of their inability to say “no,” they can become physically drained and unable to complete their commitments. Yet they will still take on more responsibility than they can possibly handle. This, in turn, will tend to cause them to be stressed to the “hilt.” All because they cannot say “no.” Emotionally: Because of their inability to say “no,” they can become stressed (emotionally drained) when they are overloaded with responsibilities. They will then become easily irritated with people. They may have a difficult time sleeping because they cannot stop thinking about everything they must do. The Supine in Inclusion needs to socialize with people and also needs to do tasks. Spiritually: Because of their inability to say “no,” they can become so overwhelmed with tasks and obligations that they do not have any time to spend with God. When they do pray, they tend to have a long list of complaints about how people are overloading them. Therefore, they need to learn: To say, “No, I cannot take on any new responsibilities until I pray about it.” By doing this, they will no longer be as stressed and drained and will be able to follow through on their commitments. That when they say “no,” they will not be as emotionally drained and will not be as irritated with people. They need to be with people as well as do tasks. Learning to say “no” can help them to maintain balance between doing tasks and being with people. That God gave them a servant’s heart and a gentle spirit, but He did not call them to be a doormat. See Acts 5:29: “…We ought to obey God rather than men.” See also Colossians 3:23-24: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” 3. Fear of expressing their needs A great deal of stress can occur when the needs of the Supine in Inclusion go unmet because of their fear of expressing their needs. Physically: Because of their fear of expressing their needs, they tend to withdraw physically from people. They tend to become angry because they expect people to know what their needs are and, as we all know, it is not realistic to expect people to read their minds. They will then tend to say, “My feelings are hurt,” rather than say, “I am angry,” when others do not meet their needs. They believe that it is much easier for them to say, “My feelings are hurt.” The bottom line is that their “hurt feelings” are actually their internalized anger. Emotionally: Supines in Inclusion tend to “bury” their needs deep inside of them. After a period of time, these unmet needs will begin to stack up, and when the Supine in Inclusion can’t handle anymore, their anger will come spewing out. When this happens, they no longer want to serve others as they feel unappreciated for what they do for others. Supines in Inclusion tend to feel that if they must express their needs, others will comply out of duty or responsibility, and they will never know if the others genuinely wanted to help them. Spiritually: Supines in Inclusion may withdraw from God because they believe that no one, including God, feels that they have any value. They can then lose their “gentle” spirit because they have pulled away from the Spirit of God. Therefore, they need to learn: To admit that their “hurt feelings” are actually their internalized anger and must be dealt with. After they admit that it is anger, they can then forgive the person who angered them. Once they forgive those who “hurt their feelings” (made them angry), they will no longer have stress in this area. They must remember that their body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and they must learn to maintain this body in order to fulfill the call God has on their life. That others cannot read their mind and that when they do not express their needs, they are sending messages that they have no needs. This is called indirect behaviors, and if these needs go unmet, they will begin to fester and cause emotional stress. That fear does not come from the Lord and that they must learn to express their needs more directly. They need to draw closer to the Lord and trust Him so that they do not lose their “gentle” spirit and servant’s heart. See I Chronicles 16:11: “Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually.” See also I John 4:18: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” PLEASE NOTE: These are temperament tendencies, and, as always, while you are counseling the Supine in Inclusion you must take into consideration their walk with the Lord, learned behavior, personality and birth order.

Matthew 13:45-46 (NIV) tells us: “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” God sees each of us as a pearl of great value.  He paid dearly for us with His Son, Jesus! We are more valuable and precious to Him than we can ever imagine! As counselors, people come to you hurting and broken; they tend to feel that they have no value, that they are invisible, hidden, overlooked, and that nobody cares. Can you, as a counselor, see them as a pearl of great value, as God does? Question: “Why is a pearl so valuable?” The answer is: “In order to have a pearl of great value, the pearl must go through a tremendous amount of irritation; and during the process, it becomes refined and beautiful.” Some pearls have more irritations than others, just as some people have more irritations than others. The people that come to you are going through irritations—emotionally, physically and/or spiritually. Many times when your counselees are going through their hurts, pains, and suffering, they tend to feel that there is no hope. You are there to give them HOPE – Jesus! God wants you to see each person that comes to you as a “pearl of great value.” With the APS profile, God has given us insight into how He created us with our strengths, weaknesses, and needs—an inside look at His pearls of great value. Since you too have gone through a refining process with your hurts and suffering and pain, you can use what you have gone through to help and encourage your counselees. We are going to look at the Sanguine in Inclusion to see what may be irritating them and causing them stress in the Inclusion area: 1. Isolation from People: Sanguines in Inclusion thrive on being with people as people energize them. They tend to be outgoing, upbeat, optimistic and inspiring; however, being alone can be very stressful for them. When they are alone, they will tend to swing in a downward spiral and become moody, stressed and depressed. Physically: If they are isolated from people, Sanguines in Inclusion may tend to compensate for the stress of being alone by binge-eating, excessive drinking, gambling, using drugs, etc. They may even neglect their personal hygiene, e.g., not bathing, wearing the same clothes for days without changing, etc. Emotionally: If they are isolated from people, Sanguines in Inclusion may become moody and stressed. This will tend to cause them to swing from being upbeat and happy to downbeat and sad. They will tend to have a “pity party” and pout. What usually brings them out of this swing is to get out and be with people again. Usually, no matter how hard you try to make them happy, they can be so “down” that they will tend to pull others down by just being around them. They will swing upward when they come to the point that they cannot stand to be alone with themselves. Spiritually: If they are isolated from people, Sanguines in Inclusion may be so stressed that they do not want to pray and spend time with God. They tend to just want to sit around and “pout.” And if they pray to God, they tend to do all the talking rather than listening. Therefore, they need to learn: To seek employment where they can interact with people. They also need to learn to bring into balance their socializing and their responsibilities. To reward themselves after they complete their responsibilities, since they are reward oriented. That God is always with them, so they are never alone. They need to take time to talk with God (and listen to Him), read their Holy Scriptures, surround themselves with songs of praise and worship, and find a church where they can fellowship with God’s people. See James 4:8: “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” 2.   Social Rejection: For Sanguines in Inclusion, social rejection is usually so stressful to them that they will conform to the behavior of others in order to not be rejected. Physically: Sanguines in Inclusion may attempt to compensate for the stress of rejection by turning to drugs, alcohol, gambling, drinking and running with the wrong crowd. When they do this, their health usually suffers as they do not eat properly and neglect their personal hygiene. Emotionally: Sanguines in Inclusion tend to want to be the center of attention. They may try to get this attention by becoming loud and boisterous, then, if they do not receive the attention they need, they tend to “swing” from being upbeat and happy to downbeat and sad. They will tend to “mope” around and have a pity party (pout). They will not swing back to being upbeat until they are accepted by people again. Spiritually: Sanguines in Inclusion tend to say and do things that are not pleasing to God in order to keep from being rejected; therefore, they may pull away from God as they may think He will also reject them because of their behavior. Therefore, they need to learn: That trying to please people in ungodly ways will not alleviate their stress from social rejection; it can only bring on more stress as they tend to neglect their health by not eating correctly, drinking, etc., and by not taking care of their personal hygiene. Not to always try to dominate the conversation and be the center of attention but rather allow others to talk. When they are more considerate of the needs of others, they will find that they have fewer feelings of rejection, and their downward mood swings will become minimal. That God created them and He is always with them. When they say and do things that are not pleasing to God in order to keep from being rejected, they need to learn to ask for His forgiveness and draw closer to Him rather than pull farther away. See Hebrews 13:5: “…for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” 3.  Tasks: For Sanguines in Inclusion, being required to do tasks all day will cause them stress. Sanguines in Inclusion need to be able to communicate with people; tasking all day is unthinkable to the Sanguine. They just cannot concentrate on a task for long periods of time; their mind will trail off, and they may daydream—dreaming that they are with people. If they must task all day, they need to be able to have “people” breaks in order to alleviate their stress. Physically: Sanguines in Inclusion may arrive late for work because they know that it is going to be a long, dull day. They will not care what they look like; they may look like they just “rolled” out of bed, e.g., unshaven, needing a haircut and wearing wrinkled clothes. In other words, personal hygiene is last on their “to do” list. Emotionally: Sanguines in Inclusion may become moody and stressed if they are required to do tasks without being able to interact with people. Their work will tend to suffer; it can become sloppy and haphazard, and they may make blatant errors and not follow through on their obligations all because of stress created by not being able to interact with people. This stress will throw them into their downward swing mode. They will no longer be upbeat and happy. Spiritually: Sanguines in Inclusion may be so stressed that they do not want to pray and spend time with God. They tend to feel all alone, like they are the only ones on the planet. They will tell you that they need a “real” person with skin on to talk to, and that when they pray, they still feel the need to talk with people. Therefore, they need to learn: That if they are isolated from people to find godly ways to meet their need for socializing, e.g., going to church, Bible studies, joining adult/youth groups, joining exercise groups, etc. To put God first and seek Him when they are lonely because He created them and He is with them always. He is just a prayer away. By doing this, it will lessen their fear of rejection. That tasks will stress them. When seeking employment, they need to find a job where they can interact with people as well as doing tasks. At the very least, they should try to seek employment where they can play music in order for them to “feel” that they are around people. See Psalm 18:6: “In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.” PLEASE NOTE: These are temperament tendencies, and, as always, while you are counseling the Sanguine in Inclusion you must take into consideration their walk with the Lord, learned behavior, personality and birth order. In the next issue, we will look at the Pearl of Great Value—Supine in Inclusion.