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!

Merry Christmas! "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men." -Luke 2:8-14 KJV   From everyone on the NCCA staff to each of you, we hope you have a very Merry Christmas.

This Thanksgiving, let us all be reminded of our Godly heritage and give thanks to our Lord for it. May we also take heart to share with one another on this holiday and extend kindness to our neighbors as exemplified in the first Thanksgiving. We want to express our gratitude for being afforded the freedoms to worship our God, both publicly in the church house with fellow believers and privately in our homes with family and friends. Would you take a moment with us to reflect on the blessings in our lives and offer thanks to our Lord? "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." -Psalm 107:1 NIV

Join us in Louisville for the 2026 NCCA Conference! Celebrating 45 Years of Christ-centered Counseling We’re excited to invite you to the 2026 NCCA National Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, as we celebrate 45 years of ministry and impact through Christian counseling! Whether you're just starting your journey or have been a Certified Temperament Counselor for years, this conference is a time to grow, connect, and be renewed in your calling. One of the highlights this year is a special dessert cruise on the Mary M. Miller Riverboat - an evening of sweet treats, fellowship, and fun on the scenic Ohio River. You’ll hear from inspiring speakers who will equip you with biblical insight, encouragement, and practical tools for your counseling ministry. Each session is designed to strengthen your walk and your work as a Christian counselor. Let’s celebrate 45 years of God’s faithfulness together. Make plans to join us in Louisville - details coming soon!

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,​ whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.​" James 1:2-3 NIV ​It often seems difficult for us to find joy in the midst of adversity, but according to scripture, that's exactly what God directs us to do. Like a single flower blooming in a barren landscape, we are called to bring joy wherever we are and whatever the circumstances. It strengthens our faith and aligns us with our Maker. God knows the difficulties that you are walking through. So, count it all joy!

Click The Book To Learn More Many of us want to pray more, but we feel unsure of what to say. In this inspiring 365-day devotional prayer book, Jesus Listens , Sarah Young, author of the New York Times bestselling Jesus Calling , helps you come to God in all circumstances through a year of daily prayers based on the words of Scripture. Over many years, Sarah has nurtured a deep prayer life that has strengthened her relationship with Jesus and led to the writing of Jesus Calling . She draws on that closeness with God to offer honest prayers for readers who... have been praying for years but long for renewed biblical insights want to pray God's promises straight from Scripture are going through difficult times are new to faith and not sure how to begin in prayer have found spiritual rest in Jesus Calling and Jesus Always are eager to start a meaningful new spiritual discipline The biblical basis for each prayer in Jesus Listens is given at the end of each entry so you can continually return to God's promises in Scripture. Jesus Listens includes: a beautiful two-color interior 365 days of Bible-based prayers Scripture references with emphasis on words quoted directly from the Bible a ribbon marker to hold your place Whether you gift Jesus Listens or pick it up yourself to establish a more consistent prayer practice, Sarah Young's words and her constant return to the Word of God will enrich your prayer life like never before. By praying Scripture through this daily devotional prayer book, you'll experience how intentional prayer connects you to God, changes your heart, and can even move mountains.

Dr. Cassandra Montgomery DIVINE BREAD OF LIFE INTERNATIONAL AN NCCA CERTIFIED ACADEMIC INSTITUTION Dr. Cassandra A. Montgomery is the Founder and Director of Divine Bread of Life International, Inc., a CAI center under the National Christian Counseling Association (NCCA). She has been a member, teaching the material of the National Christian Counseling Association for over twenty years. In addition, she has been a supervisor for Sarasota Academy Christian Counseling (SACC), as well as a Professor at Northwind Theological Seminary. Dr. C, as she is affectionately known, has a God-given gift to teach and a selfless sense of service. She has taught numerous individuals and guided them as their instructor through their educational experiences. These students have received Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate's degrees under Dr. Montgomery’s tutelage. Dr. Montgomery has a vast background in education and many credentials. She is an NCCA Clinical Supervisor, Diplomate member, Christian Marriage and Family Therapist, Board-Certified Supervisor for Temperament Clinical Counselors, and Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor with Advanced Certification. Dr. Montgomery has the following credentials as a coach and therapist. She is a Temperament Life Coach, Pastoral Temperament Life Coach, Certified Family and Mental Health Therapist with the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC), and holds membership with the American Association of Christian Counselors. She is certified in Prophetic Ministry, and she is being certified as a Temperament Life Coach; she also holds the sacred office of Bishop. Dr. C has made it her life’s mission to live as an example for Jesus and to teach as many as are willing to learn. In the midst of this terrible generation, and what’s going on now in the world today, I continue to pray for Divine Bread of Life, Northwind, NCCA, and SACC. Because we are all working together, look at what the Lord has done. Let me tell you how the Lord is blessing my CAI. When it doesn’t look good, just look to God. He’s rich in mercy. The Lord is blessing us. Right now, we have students in each program. There are four students in the Special Program, three in the Associates Program, four in the Bachelor Program, four in the Master Program, and three in the Doctoral Program. All because of His Mercy and Grace. My scripture for the CAI is Philippians 4:1-4. The Lord is also blessing my counseling ministry, Grace Counseling Center. We have twenty-five clients, and more will come because a lot of people are hurting. It is the Holy Spirit in me who cares for His people—the good, the bad, and the ugly. Let the Holy Spirit work through you. Be blessed in the name of Jesus. I would like to give Honor and Grace to Drs. Phylis and Richard Arno, Rev. Steve and Erin Baran, Dr. Duncan, and the rest of the CAIs and counselors.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE By: Dr. Phyllis J. Arno Supine in Affection We have all heard the question: “What is love?” As Christians, we often answer, “God is love,” and encourage people to read 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 : Love is patient, Love is kind. It does not envy, It does not boast, It is not proud, It is not rude, It is not self-seeking, It is not easily angered, It keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always perseveres. Many people respond, “But I can’t be patient or kind like that!” So what do we tell them? The answer is simple: if a person has accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior , then God’s unconditional love already lives in them, because God is love  ( 1 John 4:16 ). All they need to do is “tap into” His love  by letting go of their own conditional love and allowing God’s unconditional love to flow through them. When they do this, their love is no longer based on conditions—it becomes unconditional. God’s Command to Love Deuteronomy 6:5–9 tells us: “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.” Other helpful Scriptures include: Matthew 22:37–39  – Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself. John 3:16  – God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son. John 13:34  – Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us. John 14:23–24  – Those who love Jesus will obey His words. 2 Corinthians 7:1  – Purify yourself in body and spirit, out of reverence for God. Philippians 1:9–10  – Pray that love grows in knowledge and discernment. 2 Timothy 1:7  – God has given us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. 1 John 4:7–8, 15–16, 21  – Love one another, for love comes from God. Whoever loves is born of God, for God is love . What Is Unconditional Love? The Bible teaches that God loves us unconditionally . Unconditional love means love without strings attached —we cannot earn it. Wikipedia : “Affection without any limitations, or love without conditions.” Webster’s : “Not subject to limitations or reservations.” True love cannot be fully understood until we experience God’s love , because His love is perfect and unconditional. However, we must also understand that God’s love does not overlook sin . Proverbs 6:16–19  lists seven things the Lord hates: A proud look A lying tongue Hands that shed innocent blood A heart plotting evil Feet quick to do mischief A false witness One who causes discord among brothers Supine in Affection Now, let’s look at some of the Supine temperament tendencies  in the area of Affection . Supines in Affection tend to: Be responders, not initiators Need a lot of love and affection Expect close relationships to “read their minds” Easily feel rejected Be romantic Value intimacy as much as sex Have a gentle, tender spirit Become emotional and cry Need frequent reassurance that they are loved Supines in Affection need to learn: To look to Jesus first  for love and affection, so they don’t place unrealistic expectations  on others To express  their needs instead of expecting others to guess them To stop assuming rejection and instead trust  in their close relationships That it’s okay to enjoy romance, like candlelight dinners or soft music That showing emotions and crying is healthy—it’s a form of release To rest in God’s love , knowing their worth comes from Him—He will never leave or forsake them How can a supine in affection learn to love unconditionally? By turning to God first  for their emotional needs By understanding that God’s love does not go away when we fail By remembering that God’s love  is the model we are to follow By learning not to be just an observer or responder  in relationships. If they do not take initiative, they may seem distant or selfish By staying engaged  in their deep relationships and learning to give love, not just receive it By finding a healthy balance —meeting others’ emotional needs, not just their own NOTE TO COUNSELOR: When working with someone who is Supine in Affection, be sure to consider their: Learned behavior Birth order Walk with the Lord These factors can deeply affect how the Supine temperament shows up in their affectionate relationships.

“To everything [there is] a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:A time to be born, And a time to die;” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2a NKJV) Recently, a very courageous Christian brother was gunned down while having a debate on a college campus. He put himself out there on the front line, not knowing what he would face. He knew there would be confrontations, disagreements, and he would face slanderous remarks to share the truth. He was prepared for that. He had faced these trials many times before.  Charlie Kirk loved the people, and he loved what he did. He had a strong relationship with Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was not afraid to talk about Him. He knew Whose he was and where he was going. In light of this recent event, we might take a long, hard look at our own relationship with the Lord.  It’s time!  It's time for what? Time to stand up in Jesus' name and listen to what the Holy Spirit asks us to do each moment of the day. Does this mean spending more time with that family member or neighbor who needs to know Jesus?  Yes, it’s time! It’s our time! It’s His time! Let’s make every moment count!