Dear Colleague:
Are YOU “Nathan” certified? My prayer is that every pastor, youth pastor, Sunday school teacher, counselor, church leader… anyone working in a caring profession or ministry… both men and women… will answer a resounding YES!
My mother used to say to me, “The greatest saint can fall if the conditions are right.” As a Bible teacher, she knew that King David, a man “after God’s own heart,” did. So did Solomon… and Judah. Did you know there are nine different sexual sins listed in the book of Genesis alone?! Sexual temptation will come. Pornography, Online Chat, Hotel bars, etc. What you do in the face of it is everything. What will you do? How about those who serve in leadership roles around you?
In my estimation, most leaders are NOT prepared for the privileges, power, demands and stresses of their positions. We cannot leave them defenseless and need to help build a hedge of protection around each one.
Because of this, the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) has created, “The Nathan Project.” Our mission is straightforward: Developing and Maintaining Sexual Integrity in Counseling and Ministry. Some of you may be wondering why we are calling it “The Nathan Project?” Well, if you remember, it took the prophet Nathan confronting David in the form of a parable for David to see his way and repent of his sin. God’s purpose for sending Nathan was not limited to retribution. God’s desire, the same desire He has for all of us, is that David would see his way, repent and restore his relationship with God. This is our “Nathan” call to the Church and her leaders.
Consider this a bold word to take a step to insulate yourself…. Proverbs 4:23 says “above all else you must guard your heart.” That is your job. If you are a leader, challenge those around you to go through the program
too. (Because of the content and qualified leadership teaching in this series, we are also able to offer Continuing Education credit if you desire.) Join me in becoming “Nathan” certified.
Blessings,
Tim Clinton, Ed.D., LPC, LMFT, BCPCC
President
