Thorns in the Heart, Second Edition by Dr. Steven Stiles

Guidelines for Christians Dealing with Pain and Addiction

Steven Stiles is a graduate of American Baptist Seminary of the West (D.Min.). He is certified through the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuses Counselors. He is a pastor, a faculty member at Bethany University in Scotts Valley, California, and Western Seminary, in San Jose, California. He serves as clinical director at New Life Community Services in Santa Cruz, California where he provides counseling in drug and alcohol treatment.

This is the second edition of “Thorns in the Heart.” The book is divided into four parts: The Problem of Pain, Blocked Escape Routes, Imprisoned by Pain, and Suggestions for Continuing the Journey.

Actual case studies have been drawn on to illustrate how physical and emotional pain increases the susceptibility to sin when we, as Christians, avoid dealing with pain. Dr. Stiles offers the reader guideline for a path of recovery.

These studies provide positive steps which will enable the reader to recognize how to deal with the pain of:

Addiction Compulsion and Pain, Emotional and Physical Pain, Depression and Co-Dependency.

I especially appreciated Dr. Stiles’ discussion on seeing pain from God’s perspective and how to cope with the areas of pain mentioned above. He helps the reader understand how to respond to pain while finding hope and purpose and transformation through pain.

At a time when my external and internal circumstances put me in the throes of unexpected emotional pain I have found the book meaningful and helpful. The case studies illustrating diversions and temporary relief from pain are especially interesting. I also gained insights from Stiles’ discussion of stress, depression, anxiety, and anger. Stiles’ suggested alternative ways to deal with the accompanying emotions were also helpful.

“Thorns in the Heart,” although offering some deep and profound insights is not intended to be a substitute for professional counseling in cases where the reader is unable or unwilling to apply and assimilate the guidelines provided in the book. Nor is it intended to be a textbook on pain and addiction. However Dr. Stile’s writing and guidelines are worthy of being on resource and reading lists for counseling courses, for pastor and lay counseling training, for personal use, or as a discussion guide for small group study.

Create Space, 978-1456585495

A complimentary review copy of the book was provided by the author’s representative in exchange for a fair and honest review. As Reviewed for Midwest Book Review.

Thorns in the Heart, Second Edition by Dr. Steven Stiles