Discussion: Student Respons

Janiah Clark

Smith’s life assessment is extremely relatable and understandable. However, if misunderstood, one might make the assumption that life has to be free of hardships for success and the purpose of our pain could be overlooked. 2 Corinthians 1:4 highlights the purpose of our pain, “He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” [1] Sometimes yesterday’s junk can hinder us from moving forward and sometimes it can catapult us into newness if we allow the Lord to lead.” For example, one of my “pieces of junk” that can keep me up at night is anxiety. Worrying about the future instead of entrusting it back to God could indeed keep me from moving on. I am reminded of the reason solution-based counseling exists. Kollar says, “The outcome dictates the process rather than the process dictating the outcome.” [2] When I am feeling overtaken with anxiety now, I am able to encourage myself with a solution-based mentality as I minister to myself the truth of God’s Word.

What’s Best Next?

I have learned the value of maintaining a good vault of resources as I serve not just for those I am ministering to but for myself as well. I think at the start of this course, I relied too much on others but care for myself, really is up to me. In terms of self-care a good resource is the AAKOMA Project (aakomaproject.org), “healing starts in the heart.” Founded by Dr. Alfiee, this organization is a great therapy resource. For me, talking to someone is important because it allows me to be refueled as I constantly pour out. In terms of safe and secure helping relationship, Soul Shepherding is something to look into. Bill and Kristi Gaultiere created a space specifically to care for pastors and ministry leaders. There you can find leadership coaching, spiritual direction and sabbatical coaching (soulshepherding.org). For further training, CCEF offers 12 week courses in their school of biblical counseling program. At the end of the Fall, Summer or Spring term, you could earn a certificate. I look forward to continuing the journey to become a better counselor. I am leaving this course feeling much more confident and prepared to serve.

Jainah