This is probably the booklet I learned the most from in this biblical counseling series called “Resources for Changing Lives” printed by Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing. In the past there were many works in this series which I have read, reviewed and recommended but this one thus far surpasses them all in terms of it being biblical, practical and insightful. I am glad that is the case since the booklet covers a difficult topic that many pastors and churches might not have thought through about judging from the various controversies the last few years concerning pastors, churches and spiritual leaders concerning how they addressed or neglected the issue of abuse.
This booklet is longer than some of the other booklets in the series but the length is much needed given the complexity of the issue. The book is well organized beginning first with a definition of abuse and how to uncover it. Since abuse often is hidden by the abuser and also by the abused because of shame it is important that a pastor, biblical counselor or a church leader figure out how to uncover abuse. Here the booklet is incredibly helpful. The booklet then discuss about how addressing domestic abuse as merely a marriage problem can be destructive if one doesn’t understand the nature of abuse. This part of the book was very important and the author states some things that I have not seen in other works before. Finally the book looks at seven common traits of abusers and guidelines for the counselor on how to deal with both the victim and the oppressor.
Again there is a lot of good contents in this book. One shouldn’t judge a book by its cover but here you also shouldn’t judge it from its size. I took many pages of notes reading through this book of thing I learned or discovered. Probably one of the most memorable quote for me in this booklet is the truth that “Know that oppression is not about pain or feelings, but about maintain control.” Therefore the author exhorted biblical counselors not to let the abuser not to follow rabbit trails of the abuser’s discussion of his or her perceived hurt or emotions.
There is so much in the booklet. The cost of the booklet is rather inexpensive considering how helpful this booklet is.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by P&R Publishing and Net Galley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied

This book was very informative, as it explained how a partner may attempt to control the other as a form of abuse and offered other insights on how abuse begins. As a psychology major, I found this book to be really interesting and have recommended it to others.

Domestic Abuse
Recognize, Respond, Rescue
by Darby A. Strickland

P & R Publishing


Christian
Pub Date 30 Apr 2018

I am reviewing a copy of Domestic Abuse through P&R Publishing and Netgalley:


Domestic abuse takes many forms, often starting with one spouses need to dominate and control the others. This is a prevalent problem and Christian marriages are no exception. This books helps to answer the questions how can concerned family members , and even counselors know how to recognize it.


Oppressed spouses become isolated and dominated over time. They begin to feel trapped with no way out.


This brief book is great for anyone who fears they may know someone who is in a situation of Domestic Abuse.


Four out of five stars!


Happy Reading!