Help and Hope for an Unexpected JourneyDo real Christians commit suicide? Yes, they do. And for those left behind, the journey following such a tragedy is unbearably painful. Finding Your Way after the Suicide of Someone You Love is a compassionate and practical guide that addresses the intensely personal issues of survivors of suicide (SOS). This gentle and faith-affirming resource helps survivors know what to expect, especially during the first year following a suicide. It includes personal stories of survivors and suggestions on how to move beyond survival to live life again. Designed for use by individuals, couples, and SOS groups, this book offers help for parents, siblings, friends, and extended families, as well as practical guidelines for pastors, Christian counselors, and other church leaders. Topics include: * What to do in the immediate aftermath of a suicide* Handling guilt and understanding the role of depression in suicides * Dealing with questions of faith and meaning * Creating a support system* Choosing a Christian therapist* Trusted resources and websites

A classic in-depth, extremely honest first person account of grief from the loss of a child. First published in 1981, this book will help those dealing with a similar loss or those who wish to better understand and help family or friends who may be struggling with such a loss. In his foreword, Charles Swindoll wrote, "Stunned yet courageous, this pastor recorded his feelings, his questions, his guilt, his struggles, and even his bitterness. As you read his words, you will nod with understanding and weep with compassion. Your heart will beat heavily as you identify with his profound sends of loss ... Not since Joe Bayly's A view from the Hearse have I found myself more in agreement. To this author, grief is real; it dare not be denied or ignored. Yes, its wounds must be handled with care and given time to heal. Preserving us from pious platitudes and empty cliches, David Biebel says it straight and he says it well. Best of all, he doesn't attempt to answer all the whys. Old Joseph Parker who said that there is a broken heart in every pew] would have appreciated David's style and content. I certainly do. So will you." This is an intensely personal story of how one man, as a father and minister, came to terms with his bereavement and experienced a more mature realization of his faith. Both touching and inspiring, Jonathan: You Left Too Soon offers strength and reassurance to those who hurt, encouraging them on their journey through brokenness toward a greater sense of wholeness.

This book demonstrates, through multiple true life stories, how sharing one's story, especially in a group setting, can bring hope to listeners and healing to the one who shares. As Christians believe that "history" is "His story," we also believe that the smaller personal stories of our lives contribute to the larger story of God's grace and healing power throughout history and beyond. Designed for group use, individuals facing difficulties will find this book greatly encouraging. Any reader will find it inspirational. Praise For The Transforming Power Of Story: "Dr. Elaine Eng is a remarkable woman with an incredible story and personal ministry. She has been an inspiration tome for as long as I have known her. Her book will inspire you, bring tears of joy to your eyes, and longing to your heart, and reinforce your love for our wonderful Savior. Dr. Eng is a living, walking testimony to God's grace and power through human frailty. Her life and her stories show poignantly how He can use any circumstance for His glory." -Diane Passno, Sr. Vice President, Focus on the Family "It was a 'not to put down' book and every minute I could find free, I read it. People of all walks of life and persuasions of faith will find their own stories come alive in those of the contributors." -Mary Jane Jewell, RN "The Transforming Power of Story not only talks about why our stories are so important to share, but it also demonstrates this fact through each story recounted in this book. Through the exercises at the end of each chapter, this ground-breaking book gives opportunity for each reader to reflect on his or her life story in ways that give the just-read story practical application in the reader's life. A great job. A great read. A potentially life changing book." -Ruth E. Van Reken, author