What makes an effective counselor?

What is the Truth that sets the captive free?

Must we be intimate with God in order to counsel people?

Do we deceive ourselves into thinking we're spiritual when we're far from it?

How can we impart life-giving faith to someone if we don't have it ourselves?

How can we know if we are authentic Christians?

What effect does the knowledge that we have been chosen by God have on our Christian walk?

What effect does our Christian walk have upon our counseling?

Is it possible for us to change ourselves in order to be better Christians?

regarding this scripture, "For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God has before ordained that we should walk in them.  Ephesians 2:8-10 - Does it mean that there is nothing we can do get saved?  Does it mean that it is totally God's sovereign choice and does not hinge on merit?  What effect does the knowledge of what the Bible says about this question have on the individual?

To understand the significance of these questions for the addiction counselor, view the following videos found on the link below:

http://so4j.com/christian-videos-tv-free.php#john_macarthur