Biography

Bernstein, Melissa, LifeLines: An Inspirational Journey from Profound Darkness to Radiant Light

Melissa Bernstein is the cofounder of the toy company Melissa & Doug. She shares her personal struggle with mental health.

Zee, Ginger, A Little Closer to Home: How I Found the Calm After the Storm

___________, Natural Disaster: I Cover Them. I Am One

Stories are powerful. Ginger Zee is the Chief Meteorologist and Chief Climate Correspondent for ABC News. In these two books, she candidly shares her personal journey and struggle with mental health. She writes, “This is the anti-Instagram, the raw, the sometimes scary, and hopefully humorous life I have led so far. This is me, a Natural Disaster.”^[1]

Connection

Brown, Brené, Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience

______________ Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts

______________ The Gifts of Imperfection: Your Guide to a Wholehearted Life

Brené Brown is a researcher who has studied shame, vulnerability, and connection. In her books, podcasts, and TEDTalks, she shares from her vast knowledge and years of research. She is an engaging author and speaker who provides essential insight into building authentic relatrionhsips.

Chapman, Gary, God Speaks Your Love Language: How to Experience and Express God’s Love

In God Speaks Your Love Language, Gary Chapman seamlessly blends his renowned Five Love Languages concept with spiritual insight, guiding readers on a profound exploration of their relationship with God. Drawing parallels between human love languages and divine communication, Chapman elucidates how individuals can experience and express God's love in personalized ways. With biblical references and practical advice, the book offers a transformative journey, helping readers deepen their connection with the divine. Through insightful anecdotes and a compassionate tone, Chapman inspires believers to recognize and embrace the unique ways in which they can encounter and convey God's boundless love in their spiritual lives.^[2]

Clinton, Timothy E., Attachments: Why You Love, Feel, and Act the Way You Do

In Attachments: Why You Love, Feel, and Act the Way You Do, Timothy Clinton explores the profound impact of human attachments on emotions and behavior. Integrating psychological principles with Christian perspectives, Clinton delves into the intricate connections between attachment patterns and spiritual well-being. Through engaging narratives and practical insights, he unveils the power of healthy relationships in shaping identity and fostering emotional resilience. Addressing attachment wounds and emphasizing the transformative potential of faith, Clinton offers a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to understand, heal, and cultivate meaningful connections, unveiling the intricate interplay between human psychology, spirituality, and the pursuit of emotional wholeness^.[2]

Hubach, Stephanie O., Same Lake, Different Boat: Coming Alongside People Touched by Disability

In Same Lake, Different Boat, Stephanie Hubach compassionately navigates the challenges faced by families touched by disability. Drawing on personal experiences and biblical wisdom, Hubach explores the theological implications of disability and encourages a community that embraces diversity. She urges readers to move beyond stereotypes and actively engage with individuals and families affected by disabilities. Through poignant stories and practical advice, Hubach promotes a holistic understanding of disability, fostering an inclusive environment that values the inherent dignity of every person. With empathy and insight, the book serves as a guide for churches and communities seeking to come alongside those navigating the unique journey of disability.^[2]

McBride, Hillary L., The Wisdom of Your Body: Finding Healing, Wholeness, and Connection Through Embodied Living

In The Wisdom of Your Body, Hillary L. McBride explores the transformative potential of embodied living for healing and wholeness. The book emphasizes the profound connection between mind and body, offering insights to help individuals tap into the wisdom within their bodies, fostering a holistic approach to well-being and self-discovery^.[2]

Murthy, Vivek H., Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World

Together by Vivek H. Murthy explores the profound impact of human connection on our well-being. The book delves into the consequences of loneliness and advocates for fostering stronger connections in our lives. Murthy emphasizes the healing power of genuine relationships and the importance of social bonds for a healthier and happier society.^[2]

“If we could not meet, how could we connect? If we could not share the same space, how could we help each other? If we could not touch, how could we love? Even that term, social distancing, seemed to condemn us to loneliness.”^[3]

“By strengthening our social connections, we can fortify our communities and protect each other.” ^[4]

Townsend, John, Hiding From Love: How to Change the Withdrawal Patterns That Isolate and Imprison You

Hiding From Love by John Townsend addresses withdrawal patterns that lead to isolation. The book offers strategies to break free from self-imposed emotional imprisonment, encouraging readers to confront and change destructive behaviors. Townsend provides insights on building healthier relationships and fostering emotional connections for personal growth and fulfillment. ^[2]

Emotional Health

Benner, David G. Care of Souls: Revisioning Christian Nurture and Counsel

Christians in the Late Modern Age face the challenge of a narcissistic culture. How do leaders in the church encourage growth and maturity in the midst of this trend? In his book Care of Souls: Revisioning Christian Nurture and Counsel, David G. Benner addresses this issue. “A proper understanding of the soul also holds the promise of revitalizing Christian spirituality.”^[5] Benner discusses the influence of various individuals on modern psychology and soul care. These men include Freud, Jung, Kierkegaard, Finch, and van Kaam. They impacted our culture at a fundamental level. They created a new societal paradigm for personhood.

Soul care is about the entirety of a person. “Both psychology and theology have been guilty of reductionistic thinking, and this has produced a good deal of tension that exists between the fields of psychology and religion.”^[6](Benner, Kindle loc. 902) Soul care does not simply break a person down to their component parts, but realizes that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. ^[7]

Long, Brad, and Cindy Strickler. Let Jesus Heal Your Hidden Wounds: Cooperating with the Holy Spirit in Healing Ministry

God created man in His image to live in relationship with Him. “Our desire for relationship with God gives us a unique capacity to be wounded in our spirit and emotions when we are alienated from this love relationship with Him.”^[8] In Let Jesus Heal Your Hidden Wounds, Brad Long and Cindy Strickler detail how to heal the wounds that alienate man from living in relationship with the Father. Hurts of the past, whether forgotten or vividly recalled, influence the present and give place for attack from the enemy. “The first thing we realize is that just because something occurred in the past does not mean that it has ceased to affect us in the present.”^[9] Engaging in healing ministry requires walking through the phases of healing, dealing with demonic activity and a commitment to prayer. ^[7]

McIntosh, Gary L. and Samuel D. Rima, Overcoming the Dark Side of Leadership: How to Become an Effective Leader by Confronting Potential Failures

Understanding your dark side allows you to be aware of your triggers and be better able to understand and overcome obstacles. “Wherever and in whatever capacity you lead others, you need to understand your own dark side.”^[10]

McNeal, Reggie. A Work of Heart: Understanding How God Shapes Spiritual Leaders

God uses challenges to spark growth. McNeal writes, “We see the wilderness as something to avoid or to spend as little time in as possible.”^[11] However, it is in the wilderness that we gain empathy, deepen our understanding of the heart of God, and become leaders filled with faith. The ability to walk through the wilderness and recognize God’s guidance provides the opportunity for a greater degree of faith. “All leaders limp. Leaders become leaders, in part, because they are willing to wrestle with who they are, who they want to become, how they can overcome some deficit in their own lives.”^[12] The development of faith is fundamental to leadership. ^[7]

Mehl, Ron, Meeting God at Dead Ends: Discovering Heaven’s Best When Life Closes In 

Meeting God at Dead Ends by Ron Mehl guides readers through the discovery of divine purpose and blessings in challenging moments. The book encourages a faith-filled perspective during life's difficult junctures, emphasizing the potential for encountering heaven's best even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. ^[2]

Rosling, Hans, Factfulness: Ten Reasons We’re Wrong About the World – and Why Things are Better Than You Think

In his book Factfulness: Ten Reasons We’re Wrong About the World – and Why Things are Better Than You Think, Hans Rosling asks readers to take a short quiz in the introduction. He asks thirteen questions about the state of the world. I got an abysmal two of those thirteen questions correct. Rosling was quick to point out that this is common. He writes, “It is not a question of intelligence. Everyone seems to get the world devastatingly wrong.”^[13] He further denotes, “Every group of people I ask thinks the world is more frightening, more violent, and more hopeless – in short, more dramatic – than it really is.”^[14]

Throughout the rest of the book, Rosling details different ways in which we misinterpret the world and then provides suggestions for factfulness – how to get it right. One reason he discusses is the Single Perspective Instinct. He writes, “Forming your worldview by relying on the media would be like forming your view about me by only looking at a picture of my feet.” Rosling recommends looking at different viewpoints, not relying upon limited expertise, testing your ideas. He goes on to discuss how numbers can be deceiving. “The numbers will never tell the full story of what life on Earth is all about. The world cannot be understood without numbers. But the world cannot be understood with numbers alone.”^[15] Numbers paint only a partial picture.^[7]

Scazzero, Peter, Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: It’s Impossible to Be Spiritually Mature, While Remaining Emotionally Immature

______________, The Emotionally Healthy Leader: How Transforming Your Inner Life Will Deeply Transform Your Church, Team, and the World

Emotional maturity is not a matter of age; it is a matter of choice. It involves looking back in order to move forward. “Very, very few people emerge out of their families of origin emotionally whole or mature.”^[16] Knowledge and understanding are the starting points of healing. In order to grow in emotional maturity, we must “go back in order to break free from unhealthy and destructive patterns that prevent us from loving ourselves and others as God designed.”^{[17] [7]}

Ulmer, Kenneth C. Passionate God

It is not enough to simply know about God. Followers of Christ must experience first-hand the passionate love of God in order to share His story. The Bible is God’s love story for His people. Ulmer walks readers through the ways which God loves them. “Likewise, my training and discipline as a student can result in a knowing about God, but does not necessarily bring me into knowledge of God where I feel I truly know Him - His thoughts, His feelings, His emotions.”^[18] He weaves a theme of God’s love throughout various aspects of God’s character such as the God who is jealous, the God who grieves, and the God who cares. ^[7]

Wardle, Terry. Healing Care Healing Prayer: Helping the Broken Find Wholeness in Christ

The process of inner healing is one of change: in the caregiver’s personal life, the caregiver’s relationship with the Holy Spirit and how the caregiver approaches care which enables healing prayer to occur in the lives of the broken. “Inner healing prayer can be defined as a ministry of the Holy Spirit, moving through a Christian caregiver, bringing the Healing Presence of Jesus Christ into the place of pain and brokenness within a wounded person.”^[19] As the caregiver cultivates a relationship with the Lord, they are better prepared to minister to others. All too often, caregivers help others at the expense of their own personal wholeness. Without personal growth and change, they quickly become burned out. “There is nothing good or godly about regularly working so long and hard that little time or energy remains for self-care. Jesus himself invested in times of solitude and rest, getting apart from the pressing demands of ministry to refuel and renew himself.”^[20] The caregiver who follows the example of Jesus and takes time for personal renewal will be better able to minister to the needs of others. ^[7]

Mental Illness and Disability

Brock, Brian, Disability: Living Into the Diversity of Christ’s Body

In Disability: Living Into the Diversity of Christ's Body, Brian Brock explores the theological dimensions of disability within Christian communities. The book challenges traditional perspectives, advocating for inclusivity and recognizing the unique contributions of individuals with disabilities. It calls for a more compassionate and holistic understanding of the body of Christ.^[2]

Brogan, Kelly, A Mind of Your Own: The Truth About Depression and How Women Can Heal Their Bodies to Reclaim Their Lives

In A Mind of Your Own, Kelly Brogan challenges traditional approaches to depression, emphasizing the impact of physical health on mental well-being for women. Brogan advocates for a holistic, self-empowering healing process through lifestyle changes, critiquing the reliance on psychiatric medications. The book guides women toward reclaiming their lives and well-being.^[2]

Cook, Christopher H.C. and Isabelle Hamley, eds., The Bible and Mental Health: Towards a Biblical Theology of Mental Health

The Bible and Mental Health, edited by Christopher H.C. Cook and Isabelle Hamley, examines the intersection of biblical teachings and mental health. This collection fosters a nuanced understanding of mental well-being within a biblical framework, encouraging compassionate perspectives and holistic approaches that recognize the interconnectedness of spiritual, emotional, and physical dimensions.^[2]

Engelbert, Pamela F., Who is Present in Absence? A Pentecostal Theological Praxis of Suffering and Healing

Pamela F. Engelbert's Who is Present in Absence? explores a Pentecostal theological perspective on suffering and healing. Focused on divine presence during hardship, the book integrates Pentecostal spirituality, offering a praxis that combines theological insights with practical applications. It emphasizes the transformative role of the Holy Spirit in navigating suffering within this theological framework.^[2]

Fast, Julie A. and John D. Preston, Getting It Done When You’re Depressed Second Edition: 50 Strategies for Keeping Your Life on Track

Getting It Done When You're Depressed by Julie A. Fast and John D. Preston presents 50 practical strategies for managing life during depression. The second edition offers real-world advice on self-care, goal-setting, and relationships, empowering individuals to navigate challenges, maintain productivity, and take control of their lives while coping with depression.^[2]

HBR Guide to Better Mental Health at Work

The HBR Guide to Better Mental Health at Work offers practical advice from Harvard Business Review to improve mental well-being in the workplace. It addresses stress, burnout, and resilience, providing actionable strategies for individuals and organizations. This guide promotes a healthier work culture, enhancing productivity and job satisfaction.^[2]

Giglio, Louie, Putting an X Through Anxiety: Breaking Free From the Grip of Fear and Stress

In Putting an X Through Anxiety, Louie Giglio guides readers on breaking free from fear and stress. Drawing on personal experiences and faith perspectives, Giglio provides insights and practical strategies to overcome anxiety. The book aims to empower individuals to confront and dispel the grip of anxiety, promoting mental resilience. ^[2]

“Anxiety can be debilitating, but Jesus has already defeated its stronghold. Find true rest in the Prince of Peace and break free from anxiety.” Back cover

Hedaya, Robert J., The Antidepressant Survival Guide: The Clinically Proven Program to Enhance the Benefits and Beat the Side Effects of Your Medication

The Antidepressant Survival Guide by Robert J. Hedaya provides a clinically proven program to enhance the benefits and mitigate the side effects of antidepressant medication. This guide equips individuals with strategies to optimize treatment outcomes, offering practical advice for navigating the complexities of managing mental health with medication.^[2]

Honos-Webb, Lara, Listening to Depression: How Understanding Your Pain Can Heal Your Life

In Listening to Depression, Lara Honos-Webb explores a transformative approach to understanding and healing depression. The book encourages individuals to listen to the messages within their pain, offering insights to foster personal growth. By embracing depression as a guide, readers can embark on a journey toward healing and a more fulfilling life. ^[2]

Horowitz, Jonathan, and Diane McIntosh, Stress: The Psychology of Managing Pressure: Practical Strategies to Turn Pressure into Positive Energy

Stress: The Psychology of Managing Pressure by Jonathan Horowitz and Diane McIntosh provides practical strategies to transform pressure into positive energy. The book offers insights into the psychology of stress, empowering individuals to effectively manage and navigate high-pressure situations. It serves as a guide for achieving a healthier relationship with stress. ^[2]

Kim, Matthew D., Preaching to People in Pain: How Suffering Can Shape Your Sermons and Connect with Your Congregation

Preaching to People in Pain by Matthew D. Kim explores the intersection of preaching and suffering, offering insights on crafting sermons that resonate with congregations experiencing pain. The book guides preachers in connecting with their audience through empathetic and relevant messages, acknowledging and addressing the realities of human suffering within the context of faith. ^[2]

Larsen, Joan Matthews, Depression-Free, Naturally: 7 Weeks to Eliminating Anxiety, Despair, Fatigue, and Anger from Your Life

In Depression-Free, Naturally, Joan Matthews Larsen provides a seven-week guide to eliminate anxiety, despair, fatigue, and anger naturally. Offering holistic approaches, the book combines nutritional advice, lifestyle changes, and mindfulness to promote mental well-being. Larsen's program aims to empower individuals on a journey to overcome depression through natural methods. ^[2]

Mlodinow, Leonard, Emotional: How Feelings Shape Our Thinking

In Emotional: How Feelings Shape Our Thinking, Leonard Mlodinow explores the intricate relationship between emotions and cognitive processes. The book delves into the impact of feelings on decision-making, memory, and perception, offering a nuanced understanding of the intertwined nature of emotions and thought processes in shaping human behavior and experience. ^[2]

Robinson, Sarah J., I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die: Finding Hope in the Darkness of Depression

In I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die, Sarah J. Robinson bravely shares her journey through darkness, offering hope for those grappling with mental health challenges. The book navigates the intersection of faith and despair, providing insights and encouragement for individuals seeking solace and resilience amid the shadows of depression. ^[2]

Simpson, Amy, Troubled Minds: Mental Illness and the Church’s Mission

In Troubled Minds, Amy Simpson addresses the intersection of mental illness and the mission of the church. The book advocates for a compassionate and supportive approach within religious communities, challenging stigmas surrounding mental health. Simpson encourages a more inclusive and understanding perspective to better serve those dealing with mental illness. ^[2]

Stanford, Matthew S., Grace for the Afflicted: A Clinical and Biblical Perspective on Mental Illness

Grace for the Afflicted by Matthew S. Stanford provides a unique blend of clinical and biblical perspectives on mental illness. Stanford explores the intersection of faith and psychology, offering insights to help individuals and communities approach mental health challenges with empathy, understanding, and a compassionate response rooted in both science and spirituality. ^[2]

White, Aaron, Recovering from Brokenness and Addiction to Blessedness and Community Posner, Gerald, Pharma: Greed, Lies, and The Poisoning of America

Recovering from Brokenness and Addiction to Blessedness and Community by Aaron White shares a personal journey of overcoming challenges and finding community support. In "Pharma," Gerald Posner unveils the darker side of the pharmaceutical industry, exposing greed and deception that contribute to the poisoning of America. ^[2]

Neuroscience

Amen, Daniel G., Change Your Brain, Change Your Life: The Breakthrough Program for Conquering Anxiety, Depression, Obsessiveness, Lack of Focus, Anger, and Memory Problems

_______________, The End of Mental Illness: How Neuroscience is Transforming Psychiatry and Helping Prevent or Reverse Mood and Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Addictions, PTSD, Psychosis, Personality Disorders, and More

_______________, Your Brain Is Always Listening: Tame the Hidden Dragons That Control Your Happiness, Habits, and Hang-Ups

Dr. Daniel G. Amen, a psychiatrist and bestselling author, focuses on the intersection of brain health and mental well-being. Renowned for his SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) imaging technique, Amen advocates a holistic approach to mental health, emphasizing the impact of lifestyle on brain function. Through his work and books like Change Your Brain, Change Your Life, he offers insights into conquering various mental health challenges. His approach combines neuroscience, psychiatry, and practical strategies, empowering individuals to optimize brain function for improved mental and emotional health. Amen's work has influenced the integration of brain-focused strategies in mental health treatment.^[2]

Gupta, Sanjay, Keep Sharp: Build a Better Brain at Any Age

Neurosurgeon and chief medical correspondent for CNN, Dr. Sanjay Gupta writes that during his years in medical school, “conventional wisdom was that brain cells, such as neurons, were incapable of regenerating. “We were born with a fixed set and that was it; throughout life, we’d slowly drain the cache.”^[21] Gupta had an optimistic view and “never believed that our brain cells simply stopped growing and regenerating.”^[22] In his book Keep Sharp: Build a Better Brain at Any Age, Gupta writes, “It’s important that you do what you can to keep track of your mental well-being and seek help when your stress levels reach toxic levels.”^[23] Gupta argues that while “nearly everyone (93 percent) understands the vital importance of brain health, but those same people typically have no idea how to make their brains healthier or that achieving such a goal is even possible.” ^[24] The brain is infinitely malleable, knowing how to make positive changes is the challenge for most people.^[7]

Leaf, Caroline, Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess: 5 Simple, Scientifically Proven Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic Thinking

_____________, Switch On Your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health

Dr. Caroline Leaf believes that “the brain, far from being fixed in toxicity, can change even in the most challenging neurological situations.”^[25] She further notes, “We are not victims of our biology or circumstances. How we react to the events and circumstances of life can have an enormous impact on our mental and even physical health.”^[26] Leaf promotes achieving brain health through mental exercise and conscious thinking. To this end, Dr. Leaf created a program to help individuals do this through targeted thinking. She details this process in her book, Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess: 5 Simple Scientifically Proven Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic Thinking.^[7]

Pollan, Michael, How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence

Michael Pollan's How to Change Your Mind explores the science of psychedelics, revealing insights about consciousness, dying, addiction, depression, and transcendence. The book examines the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, providing a comprehensive overview of their impact on mental health and broader implications for human consciousness and well-being.^[2]

Psychology and Counseling

Callaway, Kutter, and William B. Whitney, Theology for Psychology + Counseling: An Invitation to Holistic Christian Practice

Theology for Psychology + Counseling by Kutter Callaway and William B. Whitney extends an invitation to holistic Christian practice in the realm of psychology and counseling. The book explores the integration of theological perspectives with psychological principles, providing a comprehensive framework for practitioners to engage in holistic and spiritually informed mental health care.^[2]

Cozolino, Louis, Why Therapy Works: Using Our Minds to Change Our Brains

In Why Therapy Works, Louis Cozolino explores the neuroscientific basis of therapy, elucidating how it influences and reshapes the brain. The book delves into the interconnectedness of psychological processes and brain functions, offering insights into the transformative power of therapeutic interventions and the potential for positive neurological changes.^[2]

Evans, Anthony and Stacy Kaiser, When Faith Meets Therapy: Find Hope and a Practical Path to Emotional, Spiritual, and Relational Healing

When Faith Meets Therapy by Anthony Evans and Stacy Kaiser provides a practical path to emotional, spiritual, and relational healing. The book explores the intersection of faith and therapy, offering hope and guidance for individuals seeking a holistic approach to their well-being through the integration of spiritual and therapeutic principles.^[2]

Grand, David, Brainspotting: The Revolutionary New Therapy For Rapid and Effective Change

Brainspotting by David Grand introduces a revolutionary therapy for rapid and effective change. The book explores this innovative approach, emphasizing the mind-body connection to address trauma and psychological challenges. Grand's method focuses on identifying "brainspots" to facilitate healing, offering a unique perspective on trauma treatment and transformative change.^[2]

McMahan, Oliver, Scriptural Counseling: A God-Centered Method

Scriptural Counseling: A God-Centered Method by Oliver McMahan provides a comprehensive guide to counseling rooted in a God-centered approach. The book explores the integration of scriptural principles with counseling practices, offering a holistic method that emphasizes spiritual wisdom in addressing psychological challenges and promoting emotional well-being.^[2]

Yalom, Irvin D., The Gift of Therapy: An Open Letter to a New Generation of Therapists and Their Patients

In The Gift of Therapy, Irvin D. Yalom pens an open letter to a new generation of therapists and their patients. Sharing insights from his extensive career, Yalom imparts wisdom on therapeutic relationships, emphasizing authenticity, empathy, and the transformative power of the therapeutic encounter, offering a guide to meaningful and effective therapy.^[2]

Sabbath and Rest

Alves, David C., A Sabbatical Primer for Churches: How to Love and Honor the Pastor God Has Given You

Alves, David C., A Sabbatical Primer for Pastors: How to Initiate and Navigate a Spiritual Renewal Leave

In his book A Sabbatical Primer for Pastors, David Alves writes, “Pastoral fatigue and burnout cost the church more than just money; they cost lives, drying up the pastoral pool. More pastors and church leaders leave ministry today than in the history of the Christian Church.”^[27] His research from almost a decade ago shows the enormous need for pastors to address fatigue and burnout.^[28] Ten years ago, pastors struggled with the demands of ministry; they were not prepared for the toll of a global pandemic.^[7]

Eldredge, John. Resilient: Restoring Your Weary Soul In These Turbulent Times

Author John Eldredge addresses the impact of the pandemic on pastors in his book Resilience. He writes, “What began in 2020 was a shared experience of global trauma, and trauma takes a toll – the long experience of losses great and small, all the high-volume tension around masks, quarantines, vaccines, school closures, and on and on the list goes.”^[29] As the world recovers from this global trauma, acknowledging the impact on pastors is vital.^[7]

Swoboda, A.J. Subversive Sabbath: The Surprising Power of Rest in a Nonstop WorldIn "Subversive Sabbath,"

A.J. Swoboda explores the surprising power of rest in our nonstop world. The book challenges cultural norms, advocating for the transformative impact of Sabbath in promoting well-being and countering the busyness epidemic. Swoboda offers a subversive perspective on rest as a key to a flourishing life^.[2]

Transformation

Allender, Dan B., The Healing Path: How the Hurts in Your Past Can Lead You to a More Abundant Life Embrace and understand your narrative in order to live abundantly

Dan B. Allender's The Healing Path explores the transformative journey from past hurts to a more abundant life. The book provides insights on navigating the impact of past wounds, offering a guide to healing and embracing a fuller, more meaningful existence by addressing and integrating one's personal history. ^[2]

Embrace and understand your narrative in order to live abundantly.

Allender, Dan and Tremper Longman III, The Cry of the Soul: How Our Emotions Reveal Our Deepest Questions about God

The Cry of the Soul by Dan Allender and Tremper Longman III explores the connection between emotions and spiritual inquiries about God. The book delves into the complex interplay of human emotions, offering insights into understanding and expressing emotions as a pathway to deeper spiritual understanding and connection with the divine.^[2]

Cloud, Henry, Changes That Heal: How to Understand Your Past to Ensure a Healthier Future

In Changes That Heal, Henry Cloud explores the interplay between understanding one's past and building a healthier future. The book provides practical insights into the psychological aspects of personal growth, offering guidance on emotional and relational healing, enabling individuals to navigate their past effectively for a more fulfilling and resilient future.^[2]

Peck, M. Scott, The Road Less Traveled, 25^th Anniversary Edition: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values, and Spiritual Growth

In the 25th Anniversary Edition of The Road Less Traveled, M. Scott Peck presents a new psychology of love, traditional values, and spiritual growth. The book combines psychological insights with spiritual wisdom, offering a guide to personal development and a meaningful life through the exploration of love, discipline, and growth^[2]

Sherin, Anjuli, Joyous Resilience: A Path to Individual Healing and Collective Thriving in an Inequitable World

Joyous Resilience by Anjuli Sherin illuminates a path to individual healing and collective thriving in an inequitable world. The book explores the intersection of personal well-being and social justice, offering insights and practices to cultivate joyous resilience, fostering both individual and community strength amid challenges and disparities.^[2]

Swoboda, A. J., A Glorious Dark: Finding Hope in the Tension Between Belief and Experience

A Glorious Dark by A. J. Swoboda delves into the tension between belief and experience, offering hope in the midst of challenges. The book explores the transformative power of faith in times of darkness, providing insights on finding meaning and redemption through the complexities of belief and lived experiences.^[2]

Willard, Dallas, The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life in God

In The Divine Conspiracy, Dallas Willard presents a transformative exploration of rediscovering our hidden life in God. The book challenges conventional perspectives on Christianity, offering insights into living a purposeful, spiritually rich life. Willard guides readers on a journey of deepening faith, emphasizing the transformative power of divine connection.^[2]

Trauma

Baldwin, Jennifer, Trauma-Sensitive Theology: Thinking Theologically in the Era of Trauma

In Trauma-Sensitive Theology, Jennifer Baldwin addresses theological reflection in the era of trauma. The book explores how theology can respond to and be shaped by trauma, providing a sensitive and thoughtful approach to understanding the intersection of faith and trauma for individuals seeking healing within religious contexts.^[2]

Bays, Matt, Finding God in the Ruins: How God Redeems Pain

In Finding God in the Ruins, Matt Bays explores the redemption of pain through a personal and spiritual journey. The book delves into the author's experiences, offering profound insights into finding meaning and encountering the divine amidst life's ruins, fostering hope and healing in the face of suffering.^[2]

Gordon, James S., Transforming Trauma: The Path to Hope and Healing

In Transforming Trauma, James S. Gordon outlines a path to hope and healing. Integrating neuroscience, psychology, and mind-body practices, the book provides practical strategies to address trauma. Gordon emphasizes empowerment and resilience, offering insights into transforming the effects of trauma for a path toward renewed hope and well-being.^[2]

Travis, Sarah, Unspeakable: Preaching and Trauma-Informed Theology

In Unspeakable, Sarah Travis explores trauma-informed theology in the context of preaching. The book delves into the intersections of trauma and faith, offering insights for ministers to approach preaching with sensitivity and care. Travis provides a guide for incorporating trauma-informed practices into theological reflection and pastoral communication.^[2]

Van Der Kolk, Bessel, The Body Keeps Score: Brain, Mind, And Body in the Healing of Trauma

In his bestselling book The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma, Bessel Van Der Kolk discusses the impact of trauma on the body. His groundbreaking research details the impact of trauma on the body. He writes, "Trauma results in a fundamental reorganization of the way mind and brain manage perceptions. It changes not only how we think and what we think about, but also our very capacity to think… For real change to take place, the body needs to learn that the danger has passed and to live in the reality of the present. Our search to understand trauma has led us to think differently not only about the structure of the mind but also about the process by which it heals." ^[30]

[1] Ginger Zee, Natural Disaster: I Cover Them. I Am One. (Glendale, CA: Kingswell, 2017), Introduction.

[2] Summary via ChatGPT

[3] pg. xiv

[4] pg. xv

[5] Benner, David G. Care of Souls: Revisioning Christian Nurture and Counsel. (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1998), Kindle Loc. 115.

[6] Benner, David G. Care of Souls: Revisioning Christian Nurture and Counsel. (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1998), Kindle Loc. 902.

[7] Quoted from original work by Dr. Hald

[8] Long, Brad, and Cindy Strickler. Let Jesus Heal Your Hidden Wounds: Cooperating with the Holy Spirit in Healing Ministry. Grand Rapids, MI: Chosen Books, 2011

[9] Long, Brad, and Cindy Strickler. Let Jesus Heal Your Hidden Wounds: Cooperating with the Holy Spirit in Healing Ministry. Grand Rapids, MI: Chosen Books, 2011

[10] Ibid., Chapter 1, We Never Walk Alone, iBooks.

[11] Reggie McNeal, A Work of Heart: Understanding How God Shapes Spiritual Leaders (San Francisco: Jossey-Bass Publishers, 2011), Chapter 4, I Can See Clearly Now, iBooks.

[12] McIntosh, Gary L. and Samuel D. Rima, Overcoming the Dark Side of Leadership: How to Become an Effective Leader by Confronting Potential Failures., Chapter 7, The Leader’s Family of Origin, iBooks.

[13] Hans Rosling, Factfulness: Ten Reasons We’re Wrong About the World – and Why Things are Better Than You Think. (New York: Flatiron Books, 2018), pg. 9.

[14]] Rosling. pg. 9.

[15] Rosling, pg. 192

[16] Peter Scazzero, Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: Unleash a Revolution in Your Life in Christ (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2006), Chapter 1, Growing Up Emotionally Undeveloped), iBooks.

[17] Ibid., Chapter 2, 4. Denying the Past’s Impact on the Present, iBooks.

[18] Ulmer, Kenneth C. Passionate God. (Ventura: Regal Books, 2013), 22.

[19] Wardle, Terry. Healing Care Healing Prayer: Helping the Broken Find Wholeness in Christ (Abilene, TX: Leafwood Publishers, 2001), 13.

[20] Wardle, Terry. Healing Care Healing Prayer: Helping the Broken Find Wholeness in Christ (Abilene, TX: Leafwood Publishers, 2001), 52.

[21] Sanjay Gupta, Keep Sharp: Build a Better Brain at Any Age (New York: Simon & Schuster Paperbacks, 2021), 2.

[22] Ibid., 2.

[23] Ibid., 156.

[24] Ibid., 4.

[25] Caroline Leaf, Switch On your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health. (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2013), iBooks, Introduction.

[26] Ibid., iBooks Introduction.
[27] David C. Alves, A Sabbatical Primer for Pastors: How to Initiate and Navigate a Spiritual Renewal Leave (Concord, NH: Paupakpress, 2014), xi.

[28] Alves, 36.

[29] John Eldredge, Resilient: Restoring Your Weary Soul In These Turbulent Times (Nashville, TN: Nelson Books, 2022. New York: Penguin Random House, 2022), x.

[30] Bessel van der Kolk, The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. (New York, Penguin Books, 2014), pg. 21.