What This Document Is
This document explores the concept of a “Guiding Purpose Statement” within the context of spiritual formation and pastoral counseling. It centers on the idea that individuals, like Jesus, operate with both a primary calling – to please God – and a functional calling – how that primary calling is lived out daily. The document presents a personal example of a Guiding Purpose Statement and connects it to the broader idea of growing in favor with God and others.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is valuable for students in PACO 509 (Spiritual Formation in Pastoral Counseling) at Liberty University. It’s particularly relevant when students are tasked with developing their own personal and professional guiding statements. Understanding this framework can help aspiring counselors integrate their faith into their practice and live with intentionality. It’s used as a foundational piece for self-assessment and aligning one’s actions with core beliefs.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This document provides a theoretical framework and a personal example. It does *not* offer a comprehensive guide to crafting a Guiding Purpose Statement for every individual situation. It also doesn’t delve deeply into the complexities of spiritual formation beyond its connection to purposeful living. Users will still need to engage in personal reflection and potentially seek guidance to develop a statement that truly resonates with their unique calling.
What This Document Provides
The full document includes:
* An explanation of the distinction between primary and functional calling, drawing on theological foundations (Isaiah 9:6).
* A personal Guiding Purpose Statement example.
* A definition of “growing in favor with God and others,” outlining three vital factors: deliberate purpose, diligent process (story-tuning), and divine provisions.
* An introduction to the concept of “story-tuning” as an intentional method for growth.
* References to relevant resources, including a Liberty University video lecture and a book by PetYt (2008).
This preview *does not* include the full video lecture content, detailed instructions on story-tuning, or a step-by-step guide to creating your own statement. It provides an overview of the document’s core ideas and its place within the course.