Though published prior to the recent unfolding of events in Israel, this book is particularly relevant post October 7th. In generally stressful times also, when mental health issues are at the forefront of much public debate, this book aims to turn trauma into triumph.
From trauma to triumph
Alison P H Barnett, a former British resident now living in Israel – where the many victims of terrorism are just some of those who could benefit from her insights – has written From Despair to Hope, published in Jerusalem.
Interspersed with exquisite watercolour illustrations by Helene Rudolph, the book explores the trauma experienced by eleven biblical characters from Job to King David, and what we can learn from God’s healing process.
The author skilfully weaves her own personal trauma into the narrative – of a disastrous first marriage that included rape, rejection and three attempts to kill her – while demonstrating how her chosen characters have aided her own recovery.
In the case of Leah, for example, the author looks at the trauma of being an unloved and rejected wife, and how God comes through for her in a big way as she became the mother of seven children, six of whom would head up the tribes of Israel.
Wonderful Counsellor
Most of all, Alison has discovered how Jesus is indeed the “wonderful counsellor” of whom Isaiah prophesies – in her case as well as in the wider world.
But her favourite story in all the Bible is of the Samaritan woman Jesus met at the well (John’s gospel, chapter 4).
The book explores the trauma experienced by eleven biblical characters from Job to King David, and what we can learn from God’s healing process.
She explains: “Partly this has to do with how Jesus treats this woman and because of the way Jesus breaks so many taboos of the time: religious, gender, racial and social.
“But also, it is because this story beautifully depicts that God has a plan for everyone and that the evidence of our eyes is not necessarily the truth.
“This woman, who is obviously ostracised by her community, is restored so beautifully by Jesus, and becomes the first evangelist in the gospels.
“How utterly scandalous and how utterly wonderful; that she would be remembered thousands of years after that encounter with Jesus at the well. And that her story would become a byword for the difference a relationship with Jesus can mean.”
Learning from God’s healing process
Other biblical characters featured include Naomi, Daniel, Peter, the leper and the woman with the issue of blood. All have contributed to her own healing, along with her husband Barry and others.
“But above all I have experienced the truth of Isaiah 9:6 in a very deep way. I have known the God of the universe as my wonderful counsellor.”
Alison has also recently held a successful conference on trauma in Jerusalem, and is Field Director of One Heart Israel, a charity committed to seeing both Jews and Arabs reconciled by faith in the Messiah.
She is passionate about the impact prayer can make in the healing of hurts, and her heart is to disciple, mentor and counsel people, particularly those who have suffered trauma, abuse and PTSD.
From Despair to Hope, A Biblical Approach to Trauma is published by Progressive Vision Publishing and is sold by Scrolleaters at the retail price of £10.
