In the last post that I wrote I mentioned that I had a dream to write a book. (Note the link below.) Now that dream has come to fruition and I am a long way into my next writing project. One of the things that I find so very useful as I write is to be sure that I am keeping up on reading of others’ books and materials. I know that the more I read and take in ideas the more well-rounded my own writing will become. At least, I hope so!

I am currently reading a book titled “Testament of Devotion”, by Thomas R. Kelly. I had never read him before this book. In fact I had never even heard of him until he was referred to in another book by Steve McVey. Kelly was a Quaker and had extensive travels and education, all the way to his PhD. There was a phrase from his writings that stuck me as soon as I read it. In some of his teachings Kelly addressed the difference between knowledge about God and acquaintance with Him.

How would you describe the difference between these two phrases? I would say that knowledge about God can lead to mere academic understanding of Him. Too many professing believers in the church today fit into this category. This leaves the spiritual relationship between the believer and God as much too sterile and cold. Since we were made for relationship and community, I truly doubt that God intends our relationship with Him to be this barren and powerless.

On the other hand, having an acquaintance with God holds the potential for a much deeper and more meaningful relationship. We don’t just know about God, we know Him more intimately. In fact, I would say that this level should be only the beginning of your relationship with God. Put this on a parallel with a spouse. You don’t just want to know some things about him/her. You want to know their heart. You want to know what is important to them and what pleases them. Acquaintance is a good starting point, but it shouldn’t end there with a spouse or with God.

What does all of this have to do with Christian Counseling and Life Coaching? This forms the basis of both of them. The deeper your relationship with God the greater the potential for moving past the struggles of life and into the abundance that Jesus referred to in John 10.10. This doesn’t mean that there will be no difficulties to deal with. It does mean, however, that you will have greater spiritual resources with which to address them.

Clearly this is foundational to Christian Counseling and Life Coaching. I address this fact with clients as a reminder that I will utilize the Bible as a resource in my work. If you recognize that there is need in your life for this kind of assistance feel free to contact me with the information listed below. Let’s set up a free initial 30 minute session and get you on the road to reaching your goals.

Chuck Phillips, Licensed Christian Pastoral Counselor, N.C.C.A. Board Certified Advanced Christian Life Coach, I.B.C.C.

LifeChoicesCLC.Com LifeChoicesCLC@gmail.com 573-280-5093

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Becoming an Inviting Target: Steps You Can Take to Make Yourself More Loveable

https://a.co/d/93yFPwk