It was suggested to me recently that Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands was the most valuable book for those interested in biblical counseling. Having read numerous books on the subject I was somewhat skeptical of that assessment; having now read the book I would have to agree.
If there is a complete volume on biblical counseling this is it. Tripp writes well, is faithful to Scripture (with a couple of exceptions), provides much biblical insight, offers case studies, gives practical tools and develops an overall framework for counseling those in need. Tripp’s premise is that our problems flow from our hearts. If we are to help people live to the glory of God and handle their troubles properly we must address the heart. We must expose what is in the heart, analyze what is found in light of Scripture, and call for a biblical response.
This emphasis on the heart is welcomed for, if we are not careful, biblical counseling can be reduced to behavior modification—expose a problem, find appropriate Scripture, call for obedience and behavior change. But if the heart is not addressed lasting and deep change will not take place and the one in need may be transformed into a legalist rather than the person God wants them to be.
The book is not useful to Christian counselors only, but to anyone desiring to grow in Christ and help others do the same. I highly recommend this title.