Does anyone own this series by June Hunt, or any other book by her? Can you comment on its usefulness and is it worth the money spent? I also see several of June's books on Amazon (Kindle Store). Are those helpful / useful?
http://www.logos.com/product/5265/hope-for-the-heart-biblical-counseling-library
Peter, I own it and am glad to have it primarily for its breadth. The books themselves are pretty brief, but do have some helpful information and give some answers to Christians who may be facing the issues dealt with. These are intended for laypersons suffering from the condition written about or close to someone who is, or with questions about the issue. They aren't diagnostic and certainly aren't aimed at professionals. That said, they at least touch on some issues that there are few if any Logos resources dealing with.
Thanks Mark for your response. I'm just wondering if I should spend $100 on this library of short books, or is there another book out there (probably not Logos but maybe Amazon Kindle) that has similar content but in a single book format and costs only $10-20. I'll check the Amazon bookstore tonight.
Thanks again.
Peter
I have not acquired any of the June Hunt materials, nor have I perused them very closely. Therefore, my response is more general than specific (and I don't know that it applies to June Hunt's materials). I don't like Christian counseling resources that say, essentially, "oh, you are depressed? Here is a Bible verse for that. Anxiety is your issue? Here are some more Bible verses."
Personally, I have appreciated the materials put out by CCEF and New Growth Press. They help "rivet scripture to life" as Dave Powlison so eloquently puts it. To get these, you will need to go "old school" though, purchasing paper books.
Does anyone own this series by June Hunt, or any other book by her? Can you comment on its usefulness and is it worth the money spent? I also see several of June's books on Amazon (Kindle Store). Are those helpful / useful? http://www.logos.com/product/5265/hope-for-the-heart-biblical-counseling-library
Blessings,
Joe
Peter - I have used this resource in Logos several times now. These are more than "here is a Bible verse for that" type resources. One of the ones that came in handy lately was concerning Rebellion and Teenagers. A mother was having an issue with her teenage daughter and the information in June's book went over the causes of rebellion, etc.
Another resource that I use is listed below:
http://www.logos.com/product/3191/christian-counseling-a-comprehensive-guide
Peter, today's blog by Logos dealt with this collection. I have copied it below. What makes it even better is that you can purchase the individual titles! So, what I would suggest is that you purchase a few, read them, and see if they are of any benefit. If so, then purchase the collection. And the good news is that the amount you paid for the previous purchased titles will be deducted from the final cost of the collection. You can't beat that!
Looking for information and guidance on some of today’s toughest issues?
One hundred different topics, and some of today’s most prevalent issues, are discussed in the Hope for the Heart Biblical Counseling Library. This in-depth counseling library provides practical strategies to address topics like the blended family, suicide prevention, cults, stress management, and many others.
Whether you are a regular counselor, a pastor, or just have a friend dealing with an issue, this collection will help answer your questions and give you biblically-based guidance on these subjects.
Each book discusses one topic, presented in a simple, outline format. Beginning with several definitions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the issue. Next, you’ll find characteristics of those dealing with the issue and then possible causes of the problem. Finally, steps to a solution that will lead to freedom in Christ are outlined. Biblical illustrations and real-life examples are given throughout each book.
And don’t forget—you can test drive the Hope for the Heart Biblical Counseling Library by purchasing the individual titles of the collection. If you want counseling tools on a specific issue, then start off by checking out that individual title. Then you may decide that the entire collection would be a great addition to your library, so we’ll deduct your recent purchase from the cost of the collection.
Hi Peter, I bought this resource quite some time ago. I am not a counselor or church elder, but from a lay persons perspective it is a pretty decent resource. It covers all of the basics and I have used it for personal reasons as well as using it to help friends, I would not say that I counseled any of them but when they were going through certain situations I referred to it just to get some thoughts and to help them cope.Each section is broken down into the following sections.
Each section breaks even further down into subsections to numerous to list.
For your help, I blindly picked a subject at random and am copy/pasting the Introduction and definitions of "Dating". If you would like to see something else email me at rick68 AT (@) vqme >>>> com
I hope that providing a sample does not go against the intent of copyright laws.
Introduction Some singles approach dating as a demoralizing waiting game... others, a desperate mating game... and still others, a deceitful baiting game. At the core, their mindset is, I have to have someone to meet my needs. But God's view of dating is different. Because He is the one who promises to meet our deepest needs, we need not view dating as a desperate effort to get our needs met. Meeting our needs is His job. For us, dating is an opportunity to develop social skills, self-control, and healthy relationships that selflessly seek the highest good of another person. Rather than searching our social landscape seeking a "perfect match," we are to view dating as an ideal time to focus on becoming the person God intends us to be. For many, this journey will someday end in marriage. For some, it will not. But, when done His way, dating will help us grow in Christlike character as we form friendships that flourish. This promise takes the "desperation" out of dating. "My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19) I. Definitions Many people are afraid to date for fear they will pick the wrong kind of person. How do they overcome this fear? The answer lies in focusing not on finding a person to date but on becoming the person God would have you to be as a date. If God plans for you to marry, don't worry. He will bring the right person across your path. "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." (Proverbs 19:21) A. What Is Dating? Nowhere in the Bible does God say that we—His carefully planned creations—are to live our lives isolated from one another. In fact, after creating Adam, the Lord God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18). Then God created Eve for Adam to marry. But how do you know whether you have found the right person to date? And what's more, how do you become the right person to date? Through purposeful dating, you can discover many benefits. Dating is a relationship between a male and a female who participate in prearranged social activities. Dating another person means setting aside time for social interaction with a member of the opposite sex. Dating provides the opportunity to... —learn how to communicate with the opposite sex —help define what traits you desire in a future mate —come into contact with potential marriage partners —grow socially, emotionally, and spiritually Question: "Although I'm in my late twenties, I have never dated. I don't feel a sexual need for anyone. I'm not sexually drawn to women (and I'm not a homosexual). How important is dating?" Answer: God has His perfect will for your life whether you remain single or whether you marry. Wonderful marriages are built between people who have never dated until the time designated by God arrives. God intended the sexual relationship to be only for marriage. As you focus on deepening your relationship with the Lord and deepening your love and care for others, He will orchestrate your life and bring about that which will fulfill the deepest desires of your heart. "Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4) B. What Is Courting? Since emotions come and go, passionate love may be here today and gone tomorrow. The divorce courts are full of statistics to verify the impermanence of romantic love. However, unity in marriage is built on more than passion. Common ground, such as having the same spiritual and cultural foundations, is a basis for more permanence in marriage. For this reason, courting is on the increase with teenagers and young adults throughout many places in the world. Courting is a term used when a man seeks to gain the attention and favor of a woman with the ultimate intent of engagement and marriage. Courting puts a strong emphasis on taking the time to see whether there are multiple areas of common ground. For example: —the same moral values —the same system of ethics —the same spiritual foundation "Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?" (Amos 3:3) Question: "If we truly love each other, why would it make a difference if I date and marry someone not of my same faith?" Answer: A new house has the best opportunity to endure if it is built on one solid foundation. When you are "equally yoked" with someone who shares your faith, you will have a greater sense of unity, cohesiveness, and oneness on which to build your lives together. "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14) C. What Is the Difference between Infatuation and Love? Everyone has felt infatuation to one degree or another. Everyone has experienced "puppy love" at one time or another. Did you ever take the long way around in order to pass by a certain desirable person's house or business? Did you take special care to look especially attractive on days when you thought your paths might cross? Did your heart skip a beat when you looked up and unexpectedly caught a glance from this certain someone? How can you know whether these feelings represent infatuation or true, forever love? Infatuation is an expression of excessive admiration or foolish, love void of sound judgment. Time and maturity will give you the ability to discern fantasy from reality. Until then, waiting for sound reasoning will guard your heart from being hurt. "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." (Proverbs 4:23) Infatuation Love • Sudden • Gradual • Highly emotional • Faithfully consistent • Idealistic • Realistic • Based on a feeling • Based on a commitment • Weakened by separation • Strengthened by separation • Seeking to find happiness • Seeking to give happiness • Focusing on external looks • Focusing on internal character • Seeking to get • Seeking to give • Possessive • Freeing • In love with "emotion" • In love with "devotion" "It is more blessed to give than to receive." (Acts 20:35) Question: "My live-in boyfriend says he loves me, but just isn't ready to marry. How can I encourage him to marry me?" Answer: If your boyfriend can sexually "have his cake and eat it too," where is his motivation for marriage? Don't engage in the sexual acts of love outside of marriage or you will minimize the essence of love. According to the Word of God, in doing so, neither of you is truly showing love to each other. Begin now by having him move out. If he really loves you, he will want you (not just sex) and will be willing to wait until after the wedding. "Love is patient." (1 Corinthians 13:4) Biblical Counseling Library - Biblical Counseling Keys – Dating: The Delight and Dangers of Dating.
Some singles approach dating as a demoralizing waiting game... others, a desperate mating game... and still others, a deceitful baiting game. At the core, their mindset is, I have to have someone to meet my needs. But God's view of dating is different. Because He is the one who promises to meet our deepest needs, we need not view dating as a desperate effort to get our needs met. Meeting our needs is His job. For us, dating is an opportunity to develop social skills, self-control, and healthy relationships that selflessly seek the highest good of another person. Rather than searching our social landscape seeking a "perfect match," we are to view dating as an ideal time to focus on becoming the person God intends us to be. For many, this journey will someday end in marriage. For some, it will not. But, when done His way, dating will help us grow in Christlike character as we form friendships that flourish. This promise takes the "desperation" out of dating.
"My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
Many people are afraid to date for fear they will pick the wrong kind of person. How do they overcome this fear?
The answer lies in focusing not on finding a person to date but on becoming the person God would have you to be as a date. If God plans for you to marry, don't worry. He will bring the right person across your path.
"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." (Proverbs 19:21)
Nowhere in the Bible does God say that we—His carefully planned creations—are to live our lives isolated from one another. In fact, after creating Adam, the Lord God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18). Then God created Eve for Adam to marry. But how do you know whether you have found the right person to date? And what's more, how do you become the right person to date? Through purposeful dating, you can discover many benefits.
Question: "Although I'm in my late twenties, I have never dated. I don't feel a sexual need for anyone. I'm not sexually drawn to women (and I'm not a homosexual). How important is dating?"
Answer: God has His perfect will for your life whether you remain single or whether you marry. Wonderful marriages are built between people who have never dated until the time designated by God arrives. God intended the sexual relationship to be only for marriage. As you focus on deepening your relationship with the Lord and deepening your love and care for others, He will orchestrate your life and bring about that which will fulfill the deepest desires of your heart.
"Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4)
Since emotions come and go, passionate love may be here today and gone tomorrow. The divorce courts are full of statistics to verify the impermanence of romantic love. However, unity in marriage is built on more than passion. Common ground, such as having the same spiritual and cultural foundations, is a basis for more permanence in marriage. For this reason, courting is on the increase with teenagers and young adults throughout many places in the world.
"Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?" (Amos 3:3)
Question: "If we truly love each other, why would it make a difference if I date and marry someone not of my same faith?"
Answer: A new house has the best opportunity to endure if it is built on one solid foundation. When you are "equally yoked" with someone who shares your faith, you will have a greater sense of unity, cohesiveness, and oneness on which to build your lives together.
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14)
Everyone has felt infatuation to one degree or another. Everyone has experienced "puppy love" at one time or another. Did you ever take the long way around in order to pass by a certain desirable person's house or business? Did you take special care to look especially attractive on days when you thought your paths might cross? Did your heart skip a beat when you looked up and unexpectedly caught a glance from this certain someone? How can you know whether these feelings represent infatuation or true, forever love? Infatuation is an expression of excessive admiration or foolish, love void of sound judgment. Time and maturity will give you the ability to discern fantasy from reality. Until then, waiting for sound reasoning will guard your heart from being hurt.
"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." (Proverbs 4:23)
"It is more blessed to give than to receive." (Acts 20:35)
Question: "My live-in boyfriend says he loves me, but just isn't ready to marry. How can I encourage him to marry me?"
Answer: If your boyfriend can sexually "have his cake and eat it too," where is his motivation for marriage? Don't engage in the sexual acts of love outside of marriage or you will minimize the essence of love. According to the Word of God, in doing so, neither of you is truly showing love to each other. Begin now by having him move out. If he really loves you, he will want you (not just sex) and will be willing to wait until after the wedding.
"Love is patient." (1 Corinthians 13:4)
Biblical Counseling Library - Biblical Counseling Keys – Dating: The Delight and Dangers of Dating.
Thanks for your help, everyone! For now I think I will go with this Kindle ebook, which seems to have similar content as the 100-book counseling library but costs only $10. http://www.amazon.com/Counseling-Through-Your-Bible-Handbook/dp/0736921818/ref=wl_it_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=IE60U1CQJLM6D&colid=1PU6RKDKVU0BOPeter
Thanks for your help, everyone! For now I think I will go with this Kindle ebook, which seems to have similar content as the 100-book counseling library but costs only $10.
Sounds like a good value for the price. I do see differences between the two contents.
The presentation of the Logos material seems more pastoral while the book is written as a lay-worker's introduction. Neither is intended to be an exhaustive, comprehensive guide. In severe cases it is always advisable to seek out qualified and experienced counsel. But I agree with June Hunt and Jay Adams that "regular" Christians can help share God's wisdom with others. Jay Adams' Competent To Counsel (unavailable individually in Logos) and the first chapter of this book you have found explain what qualifications a Christian needs to be able to help others.
The book has 50 fewer subjects covered than the Logos resource.Here is what you will miss out on:
Abortion Prevention (Logos content) vs Recovery (in the book) Adoption Aging Atheism & Agnosticism Caregiving Child Evangelism Chronic Illness (Logos content) vs Illness, Chronic & Terminal (in the book) Communication Conflict & Resolution Confrontation Death Employment Envy & Jealousy Ethics & Integrity Euthanasia Friendship God: Who is He? Infertility Intimacy Islam Jehovah's Witnesses Jesus: Is He God? Jewish Fulfillment Loneliness Marriage Mentoring Mormonism New Age Spirituality Perfectionism Pride & Humility Procrastination Prosperity Gospel Purpose in Life Rebellion Satan, Demons & Satanism Single Parenting (in addition to "Singleness") Spiritual Abuse Spiritual Warfare Stealing Submission Success Through Failure Teenagers Temptation Terminal Illness The Assurance of Salvation The Bible: Is it Reliable? The Blended Family The Dysfunctional Family The Holy Spirit The Midlife Crisis The Occult Time Management Trials Unbelieving Mates Widowhood Wife Abuse Workaholism You will notice the Logos content is heavier in two areas; Apologetics, and Inter-Personal Relationships. If you do not have any iOS devices and do not intend on getting them or Android, then by all means, buy the Kindle book. But after you see how good the material is, come back for the Logos resource for additional and deeper content. And whenever Jay Adams' books are available individually in Logos, you can round out a good toolbox for helping others.
I had/have the paper version of Counselling Through Your Bible Handbook, it was pastorally very helpful which caused me to buy the June Hunt Library as the scope is so much larger.
The old version is not coming back, but the new revised volumes are starting to show up in prepub: https://www.logos.com/search?filters=author-169017_Author&sortBy=Relevance&limit=60&page=1&ownership=all&geographicAvailability=availableToMe&viewMode=list
The publisher appears now as the author. Maybe June Hunt sold the rights to the company.
DAL
I nearly wore out my old ones, but I suppose they still have some life left in them. I wonder what the revisions will look like. A little.
I owned the original "Hope for the Heart" collection, and when I looked up the new revised titles on prepub and they showed as owned by me. So, it looks like they well be a free upgrade for those who owned the original set when they ship.
