Recommended Books

Abuse in a marriage is a difficult problem―but there is comfort in knowing that the Bible points the way toward answers. While it may not use the language of victims and abusers, it has plenty to say about the oppressed and their oppressors, and how much God opposes oppression. Experienced family counselor Darby Strickland shows counselors and concerned family and friends how to recognize and uncover abuse, then uses Scripture to show what is truly happening in oppressive marriages. She explains how abuse confuses the oppressed into thinking they are to blame, then equips us to be the wise, informed defenders and advocates they need. Learn how to walk patiently with victims and guide abusers toward repentance, through Strickland's concrete suggestions for comforting and protecting the oppressed while reorienting the heart of the oppressor.

The statistics are deeply concerning. The stories are hard to hear. Church and ministry leaders wonder how to uncover the truth in fraught domestic situations. Counselors work to separate typical marriage conflicts from oppressive ones. Women worry as friends seem to wither before their eyes. And many wives feel confused and uncertain: “Is my husband’s behavior normal?” Is it abuse? With so much at stake, it’s important to get the answer right. For years biblical counselor Darby Strickland has served women in oppressive marriages. Now she writes to anyone who wants to help. Providing case studies, reflection questions, inventory questions, and thought-provoking exercises, she prepares the reader to pick up on concerning cues and to explore them appropriately. You will learn how to identify the toxic entitlement that drives abusive behavior and better understand the impact of abuse on victims. Ultimately, you will become equipped to provide wise and Christ-centered counsel while carefully navigating the complex dynamics of oppression in a marriage.

Is It My Fault?

The statistics are jarring. One in four women and one in six men are or will be victims of sexual assault in their lifetime. But as sobering as the statistics are, they don’t begin to speak to the darkness and grief experienced by these victims. Because sexual assault causes physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual pain, victims need clear help, hope, and healing. In Rid of My Disgrace, a couple experienced in counseling victims of sexual assault explains how the grace of God can heal the broken and restore the disgraced.Justin and Lindsey Holcomb outline an approach for moving from destruction to redemption. While avoiding platitudes and shallow theology, Rid of My Disgrace combines biblical and theological depth with up-to-date research. This book is primarily written for those who have been assaulted (either as children or adults) but also equips family, friends, pastors, and others to care for victims in ways that are compassionate, practical, and informed. Part of the Re:Lit series.

You know how anxiety and fear feels, your stomach drops, your neck tightens, your whole body tenses, but do you know what to do when anxiety fills your days and troubles your nights? You've probably already tried a few strategies, like denial or working harder, and noticed that they aren't a permanent solution. If you are tired of dealing with anxiety and worry on your own, then this guide is just for you. As you go through each set of meditations, anxiety will gradually yield to hope, peace, and rest. Of course, this is a lifelong process, but going through this devotional guide, either on your own or with a small group, will kick-start the process and bring lifelong change.