New Growth Press – förlag

Drawing from a wide range of and experts in Christian soul care, this book is a well-researched, easy-to-read, and practical guide for students and counselors both inside and outside of biblical counseling to better understand its aspects, methods, and goals. Biblical Counseling Basics equips readers with practical skills for one-another ministry and engages them with their divine call to counsel.Since God first spoke words of life to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, counseling has been foundational to God's people. Many of the most basic questions of psychology—who we are, why do we do what we do, and how do we change—are informed by the Bible, which speaks profoundly to each and every one.In this resource, Dr. Jeremy Lelek offers a comprehensive approach to biblical counseling, beginning by retracing the movement's history, then exploring its basic tenets, and finally providing helpful insight for the future of biblical counseling.Helping to connect the dots between soul care and theology, and including real-life case studies, readers are encouraged to apply theology to current issues and the here and now needs of others.Also offering a way forward, this guide encourages counselors that the use of the Bible is central to their practices and development. Offering the Bible as the preeminent resource to address even the most complex mental and emotional struggles, Biblical Counseling Basics exposes readers to the finished work of Christ as the greatest hope for all believers.

Relationships are messy. In this deeply insightful book by Paul David Tripp and Timothy S. Lane, readers are presented with the power of grace to redeem and restore relationships.Through straightforward language, the authors walk through the relational disappointments we all suffer by offering deep, Christ-centered thought and broad counseling experience.Relationships dwells on fresh hope and practical answers, exposing deeper issues that keep relationships less than they are designed to be. Christ showed us nothing matters more to God than how we love one another, yet so many of us settle for too little in our relationships.This invaluable resource convincingly testifies God's power to restore relationships by working within the following:Resolving conflictsTurning tough conversations to positive conversationsExpressing and sharing real love that comes from forgiveness;Maturing casual relationships into deep friendshipsApplauding strengths instead of dwelling on weaknesses Making way for honesty without being mean or unkind Rather than presenting new or sophisticated techniques to make relationships flourish, the authors instead focus on the basic character qualities that can only be formed in the heart by the gospel.This book is not a simplistic how-to manual on relationships, offering lists to check off from theoretical procedures based on someone else's idea of a model relationship. Rather, it is about the life-changing work of Christ and the power and wisdom God graciously uses to redeem relationships.We are called to be people of great character so when we do come in contact with the world, our character shapes and influences those around us. Even though relationships are messy, God uses them to rescue us from ourselves.

A Quest for More is a compelling call to leave behind small-kingdom living and pursue the larger, soul-freeing purposes of God’s eternal kingdom.Paul David Tripp invites Christians to examine the deep attachments of the heart that can quietly limit their vision, even when disguised as religious activity or outward faithfulness. With biblical clarity and pastoral insight, he shows how believers were created for more than self-focused goals, personal achievement, and temporary success—they were made to live for the glory of God.Through practical, moment-by-moment application, A Quest for More helps readers recognize where they have settled for less and learn to live with renewed passion for Christ and his kingdom. Tripp points Christians toward a life shaped by God’s grand purposes, where lasting hope, transformation, and service flow from the joy of knowing and following him.This updated edition features fresh, heart-focused discussion questions for each chapter, suitable for individual use, counseling, or in a small group setting.

When someone suffers through trauma, can healing happen? And, if yes, how does it happen? Dr. Diane Langberg tackles these complex and difficult questions with the insights she has gained through more than forty years of counseling those whose lives have been destroyed by trauma and abuse. Her answer carefully explained in Suffering and the Heart of God is Yes, what trauma destroys, Jesus can and does restore. But it's not a fast process, instead much patience is required from family, friends, and counselors as they wisely and respectfully help victims unpack their traumatic suffering through talking, tears, and time. And it's not a process that can be separated from the work of God in both a counselor and counselee. Dr. Langberg calls all of those who wish to help sufferers to model Jesus's sacrificial love and care in how they listen, love, and guide. The heart of God is revealed to sufferers as they grow to understand the cross of Jesus Christ and how their God came to this earth and experienced such severe suffering that he too is well-acquainted with grief. The cross of Jesus Christ is the lens that transforms and redeems traumatic suffering and its aftermath, not only for the sufferer, but it also transforms those who walk with the suffering. This Christian book will be a great help to anyone who loves, listens to, and seeks to help someone impacted by trauma and abuse. There is no quick fix, but there is the hope for healing through the love of God in Jesus Christ.

Manny and the Garden of Gratitude helps children learn to grumble less and give thanks more.Manny Mole has everything he needs, but not quite everything he wants, exactly how he wants it. Instead of enjoying what he has, Manny often complains and fails to see the good around him, even though his family points out all there is to be thankful for. He can’t think of a single thing to paint on his stone for the meadow’s Garden of Gratitude. But when a storm destroys his family’s home, Manny starts to appreciate all of God’s blessings and decides exactly what to add to his stone.Edited by counselor Michael Emlet, Manny and the Garden of Gratitude highlights the value of contentment, gratitude, and trusting God. It is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series that brings gospel wisdom and biblical counsel to families. Based on CCEF’s model of hope and help, each story focuses on an animal family’s real-life issues, encouraging young readers toward a growing relationship with Jesus during challenging circumstances.A special section at the end of the book equips parents to have meaningful conversations with their children about cultivating thankful hearts, while Joe Hox’s colorful and engaging illustrations captivate young readers ages four to seven by bringing the animal world to life. Together, these elements help children and parents learn how to apply God’s Word and choose gratitude over complaining.

Master naturalist and Nat Theo host Eryn Lynum guides young readers on a wonder-filled journey to explore God’s creation.Where Wonder Leads follows the story of Willow, a budding naturalist always ready for the next adventure—forest trails, museums, zoos, and her own backyard. She discovers the wonder in God’s world, from glowing fireflies and hidden mushrooms to dart frogs and a smiling axolotl. Guided by both scientists and Scripture, Willow discovers that creation isn’t just fascinating—it’s full of lessons about forgiveness, joy, and God’s beautiful redemption.Eryn Lynum blends storytelling, science, and biblical reflection to nurture curiosity about nature. Willow’s story introduces kids to marvelous creatures, plants, and natural phenomena, complete with detailed scientific explanations. Each chapter includes a key scripture and an opportunity to dig deeper into faith and scientific applications. Throughout the story, scientific terms are introduced to grow one’s understanding of God’s intricate designs.Bringing science and theology together through engaging storytelling, the book invites budding naturalists ages 8–12 to explore the harmony between God’s Word and his world in ways that are memorable and meaningful. It encourages children to continue their discovery beyond the page while inspiring a love for outdoor play and nature study that consistently points them back to Jesus.

God Made Me for Heaven is a comforting, biblically grounded story that helps children understand what heaven is really like and how they can be with Jesus forever.Through a simple and relatable conversation between brothers, Marty Machowski gently reshapes common misconceptions about heaven, showing that it is not a distant, cloud-filled place but part of God’s plan to renew the world and dwell with his people. With clear, child-friendly language, the book explains that heaven is not for “good” people, but for sinners who are welcomed through Jesus.Part of the God Made Me series, this beautifully illustrated book helps families talk about big questions like life after death, the return of Christ, and the hope of a restored creation. With an added parent resource section, it equips caregivers to guide meaningful, gospel-centered conversations that give children both understanding and anticipation for the future God has promised.

God Made Boys and Girls is a clear, reassuring story that helps children understand that their gender is a good gift from the God who made them.Through a relatable classroom conversation, Marty Machowski gently explains that being a boy or a girl is part of God’s loving design—something given before birth and not defined by preferences, personality, or activities. With simple language and engaging storytelling, the book helps children see that they are wonderfully made in God’s image and that his design is both intentional and good.In a culture filled with confusion about identity, this book offers families a biblical foundation for understanding gender with clarity and confidence. With an added parent resource section, it also equips caregivers to have thoughtful, age-appropriate conversations that point children to God’s truth and care.

Angels on Your Side is a comforting, imaginative story that helps young children face their fears by trusting in God’s powerful protection.When a storm frightens Logan during a night at Grandpa’s house, his grandfather gently reassures him with stories from the Bible about angels who serve at God’s command. Through this tender narrative, children are introduced to the truth that God is always watching over them, using his mighty angels as part of his care, and that they are never alone—even in the dark or during scary moments.Blending biblical teaching with engaging storytelling, Marty Machowski brings the unseen spiritual world to life in a way that is both accessible and reassuring for young readers. Enhanced by striking 3D illustrations from Rommel Ruiz and accompanied by 3D glasses, this interactive bedtime book invites children ages four to seven to rest in God’s love and learn that the best response to fear is turning to him.

The Prophecy and the Hope is an imaginative adventure that invites children to experience key Old Testament events through the perspective of animal characters.In this creative retelling by bestselling author Marty Machowski, readers follow animal characters woven into some of the most dramatic moments in biblical history, beginning with the Exodus and continuing through stories of Mount Sinai, Jericho, David and Goliath, Elijah, Isaiah, and more. As oxen, camels, ravens, mice, and other creatures take part in the action, children encounter the suspense, wonder, and growing expectation of God’s unfolding plan of redemption.Second in the Redemption Tales series for ages 8–12, The Prophecy and the Hope combines adventure-driven storytelling with biblical truth to help kids see how the Old Testament points forward to the Savior to come. Bible study questions at the end help readers explore the “truth behind the tales,” making it a strong pick for independent reading, family discussion, or classroom use.

Following the format of his popular storybook studies, Machowski weaves a Bible study of the book of Romans with a fictional story. The Sword shares the story of Katana and Brant who find a wooden sword and ancient journal belonging to Magnus, a one-time gladiator who became a guard who watched over the apostle Paul while he was under house arrest. Their discovery leads the siblings on a quest to reveal the mystery of the swords by studying Magnus’s journal.The Bible study portion of The Sword is presented as the study notes of Magnus. It was through his study of the gospel from Paul’s letter to the Romans that Magnus received the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. Readers will learn alongside Katana and Brant the bad news of our sin and the good news that rescues us through the cross of Christ.

God and Me leads young readers on a Bible study of the first three chapters of Genesis that they can do all on their own.What better way to encourage our children to love God’s Word than to provide them with a tool to study the Bible for themselves? Best-selling author Marty Machowski invites kids to engage God through a Bible study written just for them. Readers will explore their “first story,” from the beginning of Genesis, learning who God is, how they are made to reflect God, how the world got messed up, and how Jesus can restore them.God and Me is written in an activity book format with a conversational tone. Each of the fifteen lessons invites children to explore the foundational stories of Genesis through activities, memorization, and personal applications. Readers are also invited to share what they have learned with their friends.God and Me: The First Story–Genesis 1–3  is the first in the Bible Study for Kids series, engaging children ages 7–11 in an interactive Bible study on their level. Each study will ground children in Scripture and the gospel so that they can build their lives on Jesus and his Word.

In the tradition of his well-loved bestsellers The Ology and WonderFull, Machowski weaves a study of the Bible with a fictional story. The Treasure follows the adventures of Mira and Theos who discover a sea captain's personal journal which offers clues to a hidden treasure. They can only solve the riddle of the treasure by studying two ancient scrolls, the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. Young readers will journey with the siblings as they solve their puzzle and discover the captain's treasure—Christ!While these New Testament books are often thought of as two separate books telling different stories, they are really two halves of one greater story recorded by Luke. Through Luke’s retelling of Jesus’s work on earth and the Spirit’s work in growing the church, we see the Father’s love on full display. The Treasure will help children grow in their knowledge and love of God.Vivid, full-color illustrations by Flavia Sorrentino.Written for elementary age and includes a study guide that can also be used with older children.Encourages families to study the Bible together and develop regular family devotions.

Marty Machowski's Promises Made Promises Kept shows families how the birth and life of Jesus fulfilled God's Old Testament promises of a Savior.Start a new family tradition for the Christmas season by reading this “upside-down” book that includes fourteen Bible stories. Begin the week before Christmas with the first side, Promises Made which has seven stories that explore the Old Testament prophecies of the coming Messiah. On Christmas Day, flip the book over and continue by reading Promises Kept with seven more stories that vividly illustrate how Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection and the beginning of the church fulfill God’s promises.Machowski weaves the promises and fulfillments together into one harmonized story that will deepen the family’s faith in God’s power and control over all of history and their lives too. Each story also includes questions for the family to discuss together.

As a companion small group resource to Parenting First Aid by Marty Machowski, this study guide reminds parents they aren’t alone in their struggles, providing an opportunity to talk about their challenges and pray for and encourage other parents.Each of the ten chapters of Parenting First Aid Study Guide contain book excerpts, Scriptures for encouragement, and questions to help stimulate discussion and application exercises. Machowski reminds men and women to rest in God’s sovereign ability to reach and rescue their children. Unlike many other Christian parenting books, this resource helps moms and dads find comfort and hope in Christ rather than relying on techniques or to-do lists that fail to deliver what they seem to promise.So many moms and dads hide their child-rearing struggles, but by sharing together and praying for one another in a small group setting, parents can find encouragement, support, and community as they learn to trust God together in the midst of hardship.Raising kids isn’t getting any easier, especially with the introduction of insta-porn on electronic devices, the ease of access to drugs, and the ever-increasing blurring of sexuality. This study guide is for weary mothers, fathers, and guardians who are overwhelmed with their children’s choices and the culture that wars against their souls.For moms and dads with small struggles or weighty parenting trials—such as children involved with drugs, sexual sin, and teenage rebellion—this small group guide offers a place to begin conversations with other parents; seek community, Scripture, and prayer; and remember they aren’t alone.

The Moon Is Always Round is a tender, beautifully illustrated book that helps children understand that God’s goodness remains true even in the hardest moments of life.Drawing on the vivid image of the moon and its changing phases, Jonathan Gibson offers young readers a simple but powerful way to think about suffering and trust. Through the real-life conversations he shared with his son after the death of his daughter, he shows how children can begin to grasp that even when God’s goodness feels hidden by sadness or confusion, it has not disappeared.This full-color book gives families a gentle, gospel-centered resource for talking about grief, loss, and the character of God with honesty and hope. A helpful section in the back also equips parents and caregivers with further biblical guidance, making The Moon Is Always Round a strong choice for families walking through sorrow or preparing to talk about suffering with children.

Forgiving someone who has hurt you is one of the most difficult tasks anyone ever faces. In fact, it is so hard that most people avoid it at all costs. But when we don't forgive, we pay the price of bitterness that affects all of our relationships. Is it possible to forgive a great wrong and treat others with compassion despite the way they have treated us? Timothy S. Lane, drawing on his personal, pastoral, and counseling experience, explains that only when you understand God's love and forgiveness for you, will you be able to forgive those who have deeply hurt you. He applies that truth by explaining what forgiveness looks like in different situations and how to wisely practice forgiveness in the midst of difficult circumstances.

No matter what the circumstances, death shakes us to the core. It seems so wrong, and it is! We long for comfort, but we don't know where to look. Can God really help when we are overwhelmed with grief?With compassion and biblical wisdom, Paul David Tripp shows us how to think and what to do when death enters our door. He reminds us that we have a Savior who knows our sorrows, hears our cries, and promises to one day wipe away all tears. Hope and healing come from our relationship with Jesus, the One who promises to walk all the way through the valley of the shadow of death with us.

You probably speak 20,000 words a day, give or take, and each one influences those who listen. No wonder God has so much to say about our words. We are all counselors, whether we realize it or not! Speaking Truth in Love is a blueprint for communication that strengthens community in Christ. The principles outlined in this pivotal work are specific to counseling, yet extend to marriage, family, friendship, business, and the church.Have you ever wondered how to be a more effective counselor?Have you ever looked for a better way to talk to difficult people?Have you ever wanted to express faith and love more naturally in your relationships? Practical in its approach yet comprehensive in its scope, Speaking Truth in Love is sure to become required reading for anyone interested in pursuing a career as a counselor or anyone else who longs for ways to redeem relationships.

Everyone has their own style of dealing with conflict. Some people try to win at all costs and will do or say anything to get their own way. Others hate conflict and will do or say anything to avoid or end it. Sadly, neither fighting nor avoidance leads to genuine peace or restored relationships. Is there a better way? Timothy S. Lane, pastor, counselor, husband, and father, shares the biblical principles that point to God's better way of dealing with conflict. When you understand the real source of your conflicts and the lasting cure that God in his Word offers, you will see that your conflicts don't have to be negative; instead they can be an opportunity to grow and deepen your relationship with God and others.

A partir de los principios presentados en el libro, Paul David Tripp y Timothy S. Lane ofrecen la Guía de Estudio Cómo Cambia la Gente para su uso en formación a nivel de toda la iglesia, grupos pequeños, escuela dominical, grupo de jóvenes o en discipulado individual. Estos materiales ayudan a los participantes a comprender las motivaciones subyacentes de sus acciones y les brindan una ayuda práctica y específica para cambiar patrones de comportamiento arraigados, de modo que crezcan en amor a Dios y al prójimo.Cada una de las doce lecciones incluye enseñanza, revisión de tareas, aplicación relacional, ilustraciones, una guía para la discusión grupal y aplicaciones prácticas bajo la sección "Hazlo Real." La guía autoexplicativa para el facilitador incluye las doce lecciones, instrucciones para guiar a un grupo pequeño con esta guía de estudio, contenido adicional, revisión de tareas, ilustraciones detalladas y las aplicaciones de “Hazlo Real.”

In this faith-bolstering book, best-selling author Edward T. Welch investigates the roots of fear in the human heart and the ramifications of living in the grips of anxiety, worry, and dread.Running Scared explores how fear inescapably takes root in all of our lives—and how our race for the good life finds us all too often “running scared.” Welch encourages readers to discover for themselves how the Bible is full of beautiful words of comfort and peace for fearful people.Everyone is afraid of something, and Welch guides readers to see how Jesus enters in to fear. Within thirty topical meditations, Welch offers sound biblical theology, gospel answers, and moment-by-moment, thoughtful encouragement for those in a heart and mind battlefield of rampant, panic-stricken fear.This comprehensive primer on the topic of fear, worry, and the rest of God will have readers retreating to Scripture for invariable constancy, stalwart care, and robust comfort rather than human independence, control, and self-protectiveness.Running Scared affirms that, through Scripture, God speaks directly to our fears, including:Money and possessionsPeople and their judgmentsDeath, pain, suffering, and punishmentWelch's lively text provides convincing evidences that humanity's struggle against active and dormant fears are countless. He presents the good news that God provides both the remedy and the cure for this malady in the person of Jesus Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, and through powerful, life-altering promises in Scripture.Far more than merely another psychology "self-help" guide, Running Scared serves as a biblical road map to a life of serenity and security.

Is someone you love struggling in the grip of opioid addiction? Is the person you once knew now obscured by a fog of half-truths, unfamiliar behaviors, and outright lies? As the opioid crisis in the United States intensifies, thousands upon thousands of families and friends each year are left wondering what happened to their loved ones, and what, if anything, they can do to help.Eamon Wilson explores the nature of addiction, helping loved ones understand that addiction is at the same time biological, sinful, and painful, but it is also an opportunity for redemption. This understanding informs family members and friends of the various levels of help, healing, and repentance that need to take place in an addict's life, and it also helps them recognize the common pitfalls of avoidance and over-control that they can stumble into as they respond to their loved one's destructive choices.Wilson urges concerned readers to walk in wisdom and faith as they relate to their addicted loved one, and to seek the support of Christian community and the care of their heavenly Father as they navigate this difficult path.

If we're honest, most of us can remember eating more than we need. More often than we might care to admit, we finish a meal knowing we've had too much. Why do we push the limits of our food consumption? Does God have anything to say about this struggle?Physician and counselor Michael R. Emlet walks us through the many reasons we may overeat and reminds us of biblical themes that should guide how we think about food and the way we eat. He reminds us that our use of food is not morally neutral, but reflects many layers of heart motivation.Instead of experiencing guilt or shame over this struggle, however, he invites us to see that our identity is in Jesus, not in our weaknesses. Readers will be encouraged to consider new thought processes and practices that will bring new freedom to mealtime.

Many teenagers are not navigating adolescence successfully. Often, even though they have material things, the latest electronics, and spending money, they can be stressed, unhappy, and feel directionless. For an increasing number of teenagers, their struggle to manage pressures and expectations leads them to consider suicide as their only means of escape.Family and children's counselor Julie Lowe takes a look at some of the reasons teenagers are increasingly vulnerable to suicide and what factors lead to it. She offers helpful advice for all those who work with teenagers to recognize suicide warning signs and shares ways to guard against hopelessness and help them find reasons to live. Loving, trustworthy adults (parents, mentors, youth workers, and friends) need to establish solid relationships with teenagers that will serve as the basis for the direction and instruction that they still acutely need. Teenagers long to be known and accepted.Giving them a solid foundation that they are known and loved by God, displaying care, sacrificial giving, genuine compassion, faith in Christ, and being there for them builds a foundation that will not be easily shaken and will provide a lifeline to teens who are struggling.

Disability has a way of trying even the best of marriages. The cumulative effects of daily routines that never vary, social isolation, financial pressures, unmet expectations, and a life that is vastly different from most couples can wear on the spirits of the strongest husband and wife. Without Christ firmly in the center of the suffering, a spouse can crack under the pressure that disability brings to the marriage.Ken Tada, husband to Joni Eareckson Tada, shares that disability does not have to be the defining word in your marriage. Instead disability is an invitation for you and your spouse to depend on Jesus in your weakness, and grow closer to each other than you ever thought possible. Ken shares how spouses can openly communicate about needs, expectations, disappointments, and then ask God for the help you need. As you ask, the transforming love of Jesus will be poured into your own heart, so you can be poured out for your spouse. Be encouraged that God knows you and your spouse intimately, and promises that when you are weak, he is strong and will be an ever-present help in the trouble you are facing.

You are in a serious, committed dating relationship, and you are thinking about marriage. Or perhaps you are already engaged and are eagerly counting down the weeks until your wedding. But there's a weight in the back of your mind. You haven't shared your sexual past.Maybe you're even hiding a current sexual addiction. But you're also not sure if your boyfriend or girlfriend needs to know details of your sexual past or present. Won't talking about it bring more harm than good? You wonder whether you need to share anything and, if yes, what you should share.Ellen Dykas explains that in order to start marriage on a healthy and solid footing, couples need to build a foundation of trust, vulnerability, and openness so they can make wise decisions about a lifetime of commitment.Weaving in the beauty and freedom of the grace of Jesus, Ellen gives principles that will guide readers in how to walk in honesty and transparency with each other and encourage them to rest in the forgiveness of the Lord for their past.

Do you suspect that you or someone you love is suffering from marital domestic abuse? Is there intentional harm happening to you in your home, whether physical, verbal, sexual, or emotional? What should you do? How do you seek help?Heather Nelson invites you to examine what is happening in your home and what steps to take if you feel unsafe and targeted for mistreatment by your spouse. She explains a typical cycle of abuse and acknowledges how difficult it can be to be honest about what you are experiencing.Heather urges you to understand how God sees you and thinks about you, and how he is with you to provide helpers, wisdom, and grace to see what steps you need to take to protect yourself and those you love.

Your world has just been rocked with news that the baby you're expecting has been diagnosed with a significant disability. All of the hopes and plans you have for this baby are crumbling around you.Fears and questions are rising to take their place. What will life look like with this child? How am I going to care for him or her? How could God let this happen?Shauna Amick walks you through her own story of having a child prenatally diagnosed with Down Syndrome. She recounts the enormous questions and fears she wrestled with and the process of how God showed her that each child has a one-of-a-kind purpose and has been uniquely formed in his image.Shauna invites you to dream new dreams of how God wants to display his glory in your child's life and in yours. Jesus's love is your anchor now; his ever-present help in trouble will hold you and your child steady now and in the years to come.