In Our Lives First: Meditations for Counselors

Excellent. I am not a counselor, but a registered nurse. What conviction and refreshment this devotional has done for me. Oh, to be more Christ like and to follow Him backwards, to stoop.down, to become small that He may be glorified in the work He wants done. Thank you Diane for this reminder. I definately will read this again and again.

I had to order this for a counseling reading group. The author's intentions are good and like the concept but feel that the author's voice is motivated by fear then pushes their religion or viewpoints on the reader. I think there are probably better books that lift others up by giving loving positive guidance who also respect others' spirituality without putting their ideas or fears on the reader.

I’ve been counseling for approximately 30 years, off and on, in public organizations as well as privately within the church. After running several abuse groups and much counseling with victims of abuse, this was a treasure of restoration for my heart, mind and spirit. She writes as a very experienced helper and encourager that understands, instructs and warns about things encourage feted when you’re ministering in these areas.

This is a wonderful book that it formatted like a devotional written by Diane Langberg who has extensive experience with trauma survivors. She has written a few books, which I've started reading after this devotion which was given to me by someone at my church. God has certain used this servant well to speak to the heart of those she has been traumatized, hurt or victimized; who aren't able to articulately expressed themselves. She also speaks to those in the helping profession about the importance of not ignoring self-care especially when dealing with vicarious trauma. Highly recommend this book!

I work in the anti-trafficking field and this book was so refreshing. She considers issues of trauma and related realities with such a great blend of raw vulnerability, academic expertise, practical relevance, and insight on Scriptural application to such realities. It was like sitting with a wonderful mentor who understood the depth of the pain and difficulty encountered in this field and my heart's cry about it while leading me to a more healthy place in thinking about it and processing it through the lens of faith that rests in Christ alone and for His glory.

This book has quickly become like an old friend. Every day it offers the kind of truth that sits with me all day long, and it mercifully points out things inside me that would much rather live in the light. Being a counselor of survivors of sexual abuse myself, this book offers a type of spiritual nourishment that is hard to find. We all forget at different points that the things that go unnoticed – things we take in, things we start to believe, things we start to value – have a lot of power over how we view ourselves, the world, and God. Sometimes we are so busy being “grown ups” that we forget how good and freeing it is to sit in our Father’s lap. This book helps counselors (and those who love them) sit in our Father’s lap while still being the unique people we are as counselors. This book has reminded me that Jesus has given me access to a never-ending flow of Living Water that I forget about too often. Because He is the original Counselor, the original soul-care provider, He has rejuvenation for my spirit that I can’t find anywhere else. This book is a must-have for those who are in any kind of helping profession. Each line matters in this book. It’s packed with encouragement, deep insights that stir the soul, and questions at the end of sections to remind us these aren’t generalizations but they profoundly apply to the everyday. But I also recommend this to people who have family and/or friends who are in helping professions. Many don’t understand the kind of nuanced struggles we go through, and this is a means through which you can learn how to be a better “cheering section” for your loved one(s). What Dr Langberg has offered in publishing this long-awaited gem should not be missed.

I love this book! As a counselor we carry a lot of people's pain , and we can forget and the daily rhythm of things how important it is to take care of ourselves first. This is a well-written book by a seasoned counselor who is quick to remind the reader where our hope comes from.

If you're a counselor -- or anyone else -- whose desire is to shine the Light of Life into the lives of people who come to you for help, "In Our Lives First" is an indispensable companion and survival guide. Diane Langberg, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, chair of the American Association of Christian Counselors, and counselor to myriad pastors, counselors, couples, and individuals. She offers 40 daily meditations - reflections on her own experience and lessons learned in the therapist's chair. Rich in the tradition of old masters of spiritual instruction - think Valley of Vision - it draws from deep wells of wisdom to bring up-to-date encouragement for counselors in the messy trenches of 21st century life. Quotations and thoughts for reflection round out each daily entry. "Take my yoke upon you and learn of me," says the Shepherd of souls. Dr. Langberg offers fresh encouragement for helpers who she says must do that before they can offer true Hope to people who desperately need it. You won't find any gimmicks here - no easy answers or quick fixes. Rather the steadiness of a long obedience and habits of the heart. Bonus: If you're someone who likes to read "upstream," you may find yourself hanging out with spiritual sages like Charles Spurgeon, John Owen, George Matheson and Oswald Chambers. Excellent company. In the end, Christian counseling is about loving well. About having "staying power in the alarm moments of other lives," as Oswald Chambers wrote. You don't have to be a professional counselor to find in Dr. Langberg's book a wonderful GPS for your own adventures in love and obedience to Christ in our broken, broken world.

I was surprised at how much the author focused on social justice issues within the counseling profession. This is a great read for every Christian counselor because the emphasis on ethics and continuing a close relationship with Jesus as the critical foundation to professional fruitfulness is challenging and inspiring.

There has not been a single day that I have not been able to identify with the message presented in this devotional for counselors. The daily devotions encourage us to be accountable both to God and to our profession, resting in the truth that we rely on His guidance and presence in session and out in order to help people walk through the concerns of their lives. It is a comforting reminder that it is God who invites us into His work of caring for others, and not us who beg God to be involved.

Excellent. I am not a counselor, but a registered nurse. What conviction and refreshment this devotional has done for me. Oh, to be more Christ like and to follow Him backwards, to stoop.down, to become small that He may be glorified in the work He wants done. Thank you Diane for this reminder. I definately will read this again and again.

I had to order this for a counseling reading group. The author's intentions are good and like the concept but feel that the author's voice is motivated by fear then pushes their religion or viewpoints on the reader. I think there are probably better books that lift others up by giving loving positive guidance who also respect others' spirituality without putting their ideas or fears on the reader.

I’ve been counseling for approximately 30 years, off and on, in public organizations as well as privately within the church. After running several abuse groups and much counseling with victims of abuse, this was a treasure of restoration for my heart, mind and spirit. She writes as a very experienced helper and encourager that understands, instructs and warns about things encourage feted when you’re ministering in these areas.

This is a wonderful book that it formatted like a devotional written by Diane Langberg who has extensive experience with trauma survivors. She has written a few books, which I've started reading after this devotion which was given to me by someone at my church. God has certain used this servant well to speak to the heart of those she has been traumatized, hurt or victimized; who aren't able to articulately expressed themselves. She also speaks to those in the helping profession about the importance of not ignoring self-care especially when dealing with vicarious trauma. Highly recommend this book!

I work in the anti-trafficking field and this book was so refreshing. She considers issues of trauma and related realities with such a great blend of raw vulnerability, academic expertise, practical relevance, and insight on Scriptural application to such realities. It was like sitting with a wonderful mentor who understood the depth of the pain and difficulty encountered in this field and my heart's cry about it while leading me to a more healthy place in thinking about it and processing it through the lens of faith that rests in Christ alone and for His glory.

This book has quickly become like an old friend. Every day it offers the kind of truth that sits with me all day long, and it mercifully points out things inside me that would much rather live in the light. Being a counselor of survivors of sexual abuse myself, this book offers a type of spiritual nourishment that is hard to find. We all forget at different points that the things that go unnoticed – things we take in, things we start to believe, things we start to value – have a lot of power over how we view ourselves, the world, and God. Sometimes we are so busy being “grown ups” that we forget how good and freeing it is to sit in our Father’s lap. This book helps counselors (and those who love them) sit in our Father’s lap while still being the unique people we are as counselors. This book has reminded me that Jesus has given me access to a never-ending flow of Living Water that I forget about too often. Because He is the original Counselor, the original soul-care provider, He has rejuvenation for my spirit that I can’t find anywhere else. This book is a must-have for those who are in any kind of helping profession. Each line matters in this book. It’s packed with encouragement, deep insights that stir the soul, and questions at the end of sections to remind us these aren’t generalizations but they profoundly apply to the everyday. But I also recommend this to people who have family and/or friends who are in helping professions. Many don’t understand the kind of nuanced struggles we go through, and this is a means through which you can learn how to be a better “cheering section” for your loved one(s). What Dr Langberg has offered in publishing this long-awaited gem should not be missed.

I love this book! As a counselor we carry a lot of people's pain , and we can forget and the daily rhythm of things how important it is to take care of ourselves first. This is a well-written book by a seasoned counselor who is quick to remind the reader where our hope comes from.

If you're a counselor -- or anyone else -- whose desire is to shine the Light of Life into the lives of people who come to you for help, "In Our Lives First" is an indispensable companion and survival guide. Diane Langberg, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, chair of the American Association of Christian Counselors, and counselor to myriad pastors, counselors, couples, and individuals. She offers 40 daily meditations - reflections on her own experience and lessons learned in the therapist's chair. Rich in the tradition of old masters of spiritual instruction - think Valley of Vision - it draws from deep wells of wisdom to bring up-to-date encouragement for counselors in the messy trenches of 21st century life. Quotations and thoughts for reflection round out each daily entry. "Take my yoke upon you and learn of me," says the Shepherd of souls. Dr. Langberg offers fresh encouragement for helpers who she says must do that before they can offer true Hope to people who desperately need it. You won't find any gimmicks here - no easy answers or quick fixes. Rather the steadiness of a long obedience and habits of the heart. Bonus: If you're someone who likes to read "upstream," you may find yourself hanging out with spiritual sages like Charles Spurgeon, John Owen, George Matheson and Oswald Chambers. Excellent company. In the end, Christian counseling is about loving well. About having "staying power in the alarm moments of other lives," as Oswald Chambers wrote. You don't have to be a professional counselor to find in Dr. Langberg's book a wonderful GPS for your own adventures in love and obedience to Christ in our broken, broken world.

I was surprised at how much the author focused on social justice issues within the counseling profession. This is a great read for every Christian counselor because the emphasis on ethics and continuing a close relationship with Jesus as the critical foundation to professional fruitfulness is challenging and inspiring.

There has not been a single day that I have not been able to identify with the message presented in this devotional for counselors. The daily devotions encourage us to be accountable both to God and to our profession, resting in the truth that we rely on His guidance and presence in session and out in order to help people walk through the concerns of their lives. It is a comforting reminder that it is God who invites us into His work of caring for others, and not us who beg God to be involved.

This book has initiated a mindset reboot that was sorely needed!!! I’ve been at a place of burn out and experiencing compassion fatigue... and also simply struggling with the lack of progress and determination with coworkers as well. This book spoke volumes to me. I feel as if I have encountered mental and emotional relief, and have been refueled with biblical truths I had lost sight of. I have already bought four extra copies of this book to give to my mental health counselor friends! Highly highly recommend!

Diane Langberg is a voice of wisdom that all those who are Christians and also want to practice solid therapy need to listen to. I’m grateful for her many years of experience to draw from. These short chapters, paired with true self reflection and humility can help keep you grounded in our shared humanity. Note: even though geared towards counselors, these meditations can also apply to any person in a people care field.

This devotional is specific to those engaged in counseling with others. It deals with the care of the counselor, how to understand and experience the client's pain, and how to conceptualize it for yourself. If you are a Christian counselor or psychologist, this is a great read.

This devotion is a must have for Christian therapist. Diane writes with depth and wisdom that comes from her years of working with clients and walking with God. Every mini chapter I read was profoundly encouraging.

Diane Langberg has counseled survivors of abuse for decades. She knows what danger lies within such work. In order to give our best to those we wish to help and to honor our Savior, we must make sure that the truth we speak to our clients is in our lives first.

If you are a pastor or counselor or someone who can give advise and encouragement to hurting individuals, guard your heart first. What do you need first as a counselor before you can counsel others? "In Our Lives First" makes some great points about that. I highly recommend it. Ron Rushton

I found myself immersed in her words and thoughts. At times I felt as though the world I live in was understood that someone else gets me and my challenges. I plan to give this book out to many of my coworkers

This book is not what I expected simply an encouragement in our counseling . No this was a challenge to follow Jesus , ask how does Jesus see our broken world. Very thought provoking and often convicting.

Love this and use as a devotion when I teach counseling classes at the University. Speaks from the heart.

This is a wonderful book and gives counselors important things upon which to reflect. This would make a wonderful gift for anyone in the helping profession.

I have not enough words to express my gratitude for this work! I am a new counselor and needed a book like this to help me stay grounded! I am so appreciative of this work!!!

Langberg provides a concise devotional for tired & thirsty counselors. She pulls from her vast experience, and boldly exposes personal vulnerabilities as a counselor that will resonate with those in the field. Langberg gently reminds counselors of their own weakness and need for Jesus, and that only out of fullness will they have the grace to persevere in helping others.

I have needed something to help keep my relationship with The Lord intertwined with my what I do for a living. It is a wonderful devotional. I read it every morning.

A thoughtful, concise collection of wisdom and questions to ask of myself. Thank you!

Good tool for meditation. Profound and on point. Great tool for counselors.

It provides a good reflection on what it means to be a counselor. A good read for all who themselves in the helping profession.

Excellent book!

More good advice

I was challenged to go deeper with God, personally, so that I am more prepared to reach out to others in need of soul care.

Very pleased.

This was an excellent read!!

Enjoyed the challenge and the call she gives to those who enter into the holy place in peoples suffering and sin.

I like her spiritual insights and encouragement as a clinician. So true and authentic, really strengthen my journey as a Christ-like spiritual counselor.

This resource should be essential for any Christian serving in the counseling arena. I would even encourage people who are not Christians to give this a read as it provides deep insights into the heart of both the counselor and counselee.

Awesome

I am a Christian counselor – I have given this to interns I've supervised, as well as to my staff. I love the depth and intensity with which Diane Langberg writes.

Great way to engage the heart of the helper in order to avoid the tendency to pride and arrogance in every counselor. Dr. Langberg provides an opportunity to pursue self-examination.

Worth it for any pastor, counselor, or anyone involved in any kind of "ministry." It points to the need for Christ to be at the heart and center of all that we do.

If you are a counselor, read it!

Lang berg thoughtfully and graciously provokes both heart and mind as she warns and instructs those of us who choose the vocation of counseling.

Wonderful!

This is a wonderful devotion!

Exellent!

Diane Langberg does an excellent job of having Biblical Counselors focus upon what rules their hearts while they provide Soul Care. "The General" provides quotes from many Puritan pastors and men of God. This is a must read for Biblical Counselors!