OVERVIEW Each of us has a story, a very important and sacred story, in which we

OVERVIEW
Each of us has a story, a very important and sacred story, in which we and God are always
writing. The apostle Paul eloquently stated it this way: “12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you
have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to
work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act
in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2, NIV version).
Additionally, the American Counseling Association (2014) Code of Ethics states that counselors
are to, “monitor themselves for signs of impairment from their own physical, mental, or
emotional problems and refrain from offering or providing professional services when such
impairment is likely to harm a client or others” (Section F.5.b). In other words, “Counselor,
know thyself!”
The purpose of this assignment is to give you an opportunity to closely examine how your life
has unfolded to this day in time, unveiling the work of God and your role. The premise is that by
examining your life you will more clearly know what you bring to the counseling relationship
that will both help and hinder your future clients. Additionally, this journaling assignment will
become the basis of your sharing in your intensive growth groups.
INSTRUCTIONS
Each journal entry will answer one question per assigned chapter. Your answers should reflect
two elements: critical thinking and integration of each chapter and personal application of each
chapter content to your life.
Each journal entry is due on Sunday by 11:59pm. Please note that no late journal assignments
will be accepted, as these assignments are intended to support the group discussions in the
following week.
Your journal entries should be 1-1.5 pages per question. References and citations are not needed
for this assignment and first-person may be used, but please use general APA formatting
including a title page, appropriate font, and double spacing.
Allender states we are called to reveal God through the themes
that have been woven in our hearts. What themes and patterns
from your life are currently influencing what you know about your
calling?