Biblical Crisis Counseling: Not If But When

by John Babler

The word crisis comes from the Greek krisis, which literally means decision. When trials, temptations, disasters, personal sin, or anything else bring us to a point of crisis, how we respond – the decisions we make and actions we take – will either reflect a faithful, obedient, God honoring heart or a doubtful, self-centered one. Because crises bring about the need to make many decisions, Christians are afforded opportunities to glorify God by making choices and acting in ways that honor Him. The Biblical Crisis Intervention model presented in this book provides a template upon which the counselor can base his or her crisis ministry. As the world provides temporary solutions to those in crisis, the Biblical Crisis Intervention Model offers an opportunity for those in crisis to find the healing that God offers.

106 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 19, 2014

Reviews

[Katie Daughtry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helpful resource

[Cassie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This resource felt a bit disorganized, but it did provide a helpful orientation to biblical crisis intervention. I especially appreciate how the author reinforced every point he made with Scripture.

[Abbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good, short manual explaining a biblical framework for responding to emergency/crisis situations.

[Levi Porter · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.4/5

There were three pieces of this book I found helpful. First, the experiences of the author build trust that he has been in these situations and is teaching from his own experience. Second, the emphasis on showing how the Scriptures speak to our crisis situations. The goal isn't to pat on the head with the Bible, but show that there really is hope. Third, the practical aspect. People in crisis need someone to listen and then provide for them in what they lack often times before we can get onto the business of counseling. I am reminded of James where he says that we have failed if we exhort someone to go in peace but haven't provided for them practically when that is what they need.

Otherwise, as far as counseling framework goes, I didn't find the framework to be all that impressive. Now, there's nothing wrong with it. I agree with it. But any counseling student of the Bible should know it implicitly, which I think could be a testament to its faithfulness. But I also wonder "Isn't there more? Aren't there more details to this?" I think I would have found it more helpful to provide practical questions to ask at each stage of the framework. For example, when someone is experiencing crisis, what are good questions to ask to draw out his/her heart so that they can be understood?

I would use this book if I was building a crisis response team at my church. Some of the practical pieces are gold!

[Rebekah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good resource for learning how to respond to other people in crisis. He provided several practical steps for a handful of specific examples of crises and made a point to emphasize the power and love of God throughout the book.
If you find it difficult to be around people who are experiencing a crisis because you "don't know what to say" or you "think you might say the wrong thing and make the situation worse", this is an excellent book.
The last chapter provides an explanation for a LOT of relief organizations and how you can get involved with them.

[Elizabeth Aucoin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book, perfect length. Babler has real life experience that he brings into this writing. The practicality of his wisdom, and the depth of his compassion were very helpful in not only forming insights, but deepening your heart for the hurting. Would recommend, a bit on the more basic side. A good intro book

[Robert Cale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book. Helpful Scriptures for Biblical Counselors counseling counselee’s in crisis. Dr. Babler’s practical approach to crisis counseling is a breath of fresh air in a climate that can be very academic at times. This book equips counselors for crisis counseling.

[Kaitlyn Pindak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent- extremely practical and compassionate, full of scripture.

[Sam Sinclair · Rating 3 out of 5]

Brief. Simple. Practical. Nothing earth-shattering.