Shepherding Women in Pain by Bev Hislop

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Real Women, Real Issues, and What You Need to Know to Truly Help

I got this book in the mail, looked at and thought, "Wow, that's a big book. I'm gonna have to slog my way through that." But I am happy to report I was wrong. While big, the book was an easy read as far as the words, but it has a heavy content as you look at the many ways women are hurting in this world.

This was such a helpful book. Bev was the editor and the chapters are written by many different women focusing on their area of specialty. There are chapters on depression, eating disorders, infertility, terminal illness, abortion, sexual abuse, homelessness, pornography, sexuality, and more. Each chapter starts with a story and then moves into how to help women in these situations. I think my biggest takeaway from this book that is far too broad, but yet encompasses so much of life is this: listen. Listen to the pain of the woman in front of you. You can't fix their pain, but you can listen and you can walk through it with them, helping them find the resources they need, and doing so in a nonjudgmental manner. 

"A caregiver who will be directive when intervention is needed, empathetic when listening is required, and understanding in the journey toward recovery will be hope in the midst of pain."

There is also a section dedicated to developing a community that cares for its people and that can help bring healing and a section on what the hurting people want us to know. 

We are called to represent "both the truth and character of Jesus. Don't fall for the trap of compromising truth for the sake of compassion or vice versa."

I just really enjoyed this book and I hope I can use what I learned to help women find healing. Another thing that was helpful is, in the various chapters about specific needs, there was also a list of resources that points you to books and websites that can help you learn more about that topic. 

I received this book from Moody Publishers and was not required to write a positive review.  All opinions expressed are my own. 

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