All Christians

As we reflect on the past year, 2024 has been a world of change with attending conferences, launching a research project that is currently in progress (go take it if you haven’t yet!), and some new vision and direction (more on that to come). From navigating mental health challenges through a biblical lens to addressing the unique needs of families and church communities, the top articles of the year have offered encouragement, practical guidance, and faith-based wisdom. In this special roundup, we revisit the ten most impactful articles that inspired deeper trust in God, fostered emotional healing, and strengthened spiritual resilience. Join us as we explore these rich resources, each designed to equip counselors, church leaders, and believers on their journey toward holistic well-being.

As a pastor, church leader, and/or Christian counselor you carry a unique set of responsibilities that impact the lives of many, but we recognize that your own experiences, particularly those from childhood, can also play a significant role in your ministry. We are conducting an important survey titled “Pastors and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)”, and we would be honored to have your participation.

When it comes to the intersection of faith and mental health, knowledge is power. Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, counselor, or passionate about creating a mentally healthy church environment, equipping yourself with the right resources is vital. Check out our list here. Over the years, we’ve discovered many impactful books that address these vital topics, and we’ve curated an updated list to help you navigate this journey.

This list includes books that range from practical ministry guides to deeper dives into psychology and theology. No matter where you are in your understanding of mental health, there’s something here for you.

As a Christian counselor, I’ve walked alongside many pastors and ministry leaders who face the unique challenge of balancing their calling with the need to nurture their families and personal well-being. Pastoral ministry is a beautiful yet demanding vocation, often marked by emotional exhaustion, secondary trauma, and blurred boundaries between work and home.

For pastors, congregational needs can feel omnipresent, leading to burnout and strain in personal relationships. To thrive both as a spiritual leader and as a family member, it’s essential to establish boundaries and practices that protect your home life from the demands of ministry.

[This article is part of a series of books we have reviewed over the years. Click the link to check out all the other books we’ve reviewed here.]

I’ve heard it said that if a faith is only for those who are whole and not wounded, broken, or in need of redemptive grace, then it isn’t the Christian faith. In Disability and the Gospel, Michael S. Beates in collaboration with Joni Eareckson Tada, offers a theological exploration of disability in the Christian context, challenging long-held misconceptions and inviting the Church to embrace individuals with disabilities as an integral part of the Body of Christ. For Christian counselors and pastors, this book is an invaluable resource for understanding the intersection of theology, suffering, and inclusion in ministry.

The book The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt has stirred many discussions, especially among those concerned with the wellbeing of youth. The following discussion is not a formal review of the book, as our overall thought of the content and facts are great, but we have a strong issue with how it was delivered and feel it does not represent a Christian family. The following content wants to know a problem with the heightened fear presented in this book that leads to an incorrect conclusion and people misunderstanding the content, actually acting beyond what the author of this book is pushing.

Conflict is inevitable in ministry. Whether you’re working with church members, counseling individuals, or navigating team dynamics, understanding how to resolve disputes in a Christ-centered way is vital. Here are essential conflict resolution skills, grounded in biblical wisdom, that can guide pastors and Christian counselors toward fostering peace and unity.

In the Christian counseling community and among church leaders, growing and expanding mental health ministry is vital. Networking with professional peers, learning about new resources, and training your congregation are essential steps in building a robust mental health ministry that can effectively serve your church and its community. After my experience at the Mental Health and the Church conference and completing a local Faith and Mental Health Continuing Education Units training for licensed counselors and social workers spurred some excitement back into my professional networking, I wanted to share some ways to foster growth and build lasting connections in this critical area of ministry.

[This article is part of a series of books we have reviewed over the years. Click the link to check out all the other books we’ve reviewed here.]

Fear is something we all deal with, but for some, it can feel like an ever-present shadow, constantly lurking in the background. In Afraid of All the Things, Scarlet Hiltibidal explores the intricate relationship between anxiety, fear, and faith in a refreshingly authentic and humorous way. This memoir, interwoven with biblical truths, personal stories, and a healthy dose of laughter, is a heartfelt invitation to let go of fear and trust in God.

The Good

The author is vulnerable, honest, and witty throughout the whole book. She shares her struggles with fear and anxiety, making her story incredibly relatable to those who wrestle with similar emotions. From irrational fears to real, deep-seated anxieties, the book explores how fear can grip every aspect of life — whether it’s about flying, sickness, or simply being human in a chaotic world.

What sets her apart is her ability to talk about these difficult topics with a sense of humor. The light-hearted tone makes the book approachable, even when it delves into heavier themes like mental health and spiritual battles.

The Intersection of Faith and Fear

At the core of this book is Hiltibidal’s journey toward trusting God in the midst of her fear. She weaves biblical truths into her narrative, offering a gospel-centered perspective on overcoming anxiety. Rather than providing a simple “fix,” the book encourages readers to lean into their faith and embrace the freedom that comes with trusting in God’s sovereignty.

Hiltibidal challenges the cultural norm of self-reliance, pointing readers back to the truth that God, not our own efforts, is our refuge and strength. This message is both comforting and convicting, as she unpacks how surrendering fear to God doesn’t necessarily mean it will disappear, but that we can experience peace and joy in the midst of it.

Further, Scarlett’s self-deprecating humor is woven into the book, making it easy to read and actually adding to the understanding of God’s value to us and how that fear can be a barrier to our relationship with Him. Life’s challenges, even the darkest moments, are peppered with levity. Her witty observations and self-deprecating humor make the book an enjoyable read, lightening the weight of the subject matter without trivializing it.

Practical Takeaways

While the book is primarily a memoir, it offers practical wisdom for anyone struggling with anxiety or fear. Scarlet doesn’t offer a step-by-step guide to overcoming anxiety, but she does share practices and perspectives that have helped her in her journey. From prayer and scripture meditation to the importance of community and honesty, the book is packed with encouragement to help readers navigate their own fears.

The book also speaks to the broader Christian community, encouraging empathy and understanding for those who battle anxiety. Hiltibidal reminds readers that faith and mental health can coexist, and that Christians who struggle with fear are not failures in their faith.

Conclusion

We give Afraid of All the Things a 5 out of 5. It is a refreshing and comforting read for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by fear or anxiety. It’s perfect for counselors to relate with their faith in the practice and give insight into the life of a Christian struggling with anxiety. Whether you’re someone who experiences constant worry or just an occasional bout of fear, this book provides a gospel-centered reminder that peace comes not from controlling your circumstances, but from trusting the One who holds them.

We are excited to announce our newest ebook, Church Liaison, a resource for churches and communities. For those following our website, we have been sharing recent data about concerns about a national behavioral health workforce shortage that only appears to be worsening. Further, some churches are starting to see shortages in their pastoral staff. This has led to our concerns about the scarcity of mental health services and pastoral care from churches and counseling agencies.

Our solutions? The church liaison position.