Practice
Worship and Awe in Christian Psychology How Centering God Transforms Mental and Spiritual Health Joshua J. Knabb
Mental health resources increasingly focus on the self as the anti- dote to psychological suffering, offering strategies for prioritizing self-care and self-esteem. Yet as people focus more on the self, their suffering may actually worsen, as evidenced by the prevalence of mental health disorders today. According to Christian clinical psychologist Joshua Knabb, when people focus less on the self and more on God, their mental and spiritual health may improve. Combining up-to-date psychological research with theological reflection, this book helps readers better understand the role that awe, pursued through the act of worship, plays in optimal psycho- logical and spiritual functioning. Knabb explains that at its core, Christian mental and spiritual health involves worshipful awe of God, which can be intentionally cultivated throughout the day. The book also includes practices for readers to try out and use in clinical contexts. Worship and Awe in Christian Psychology will benefit students in Christian counseling and psychology programs, mental health prac- titioners, and others who want to improve their mental and spiritual health from a Christian perspective. “A timely and excellent book on the topic of awe. It is unique from a Christian and integration perspective and will be helpful to many Christians. Highly recommended!” —Siang-Yang Tan, Fuller Theological Seminary; author of Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Christian Perspective “Knabb offers a deeply needed vision for Christian psychologists—a vision that calls us back to the heart of our work: reverence for God. This is not just another integration text; it’s a soulful, intel - lectually rich invitation to consider how awe and worship shape us as followers of Christ. With theological depth, clinical insight, and spiritual humility, Knabb helps us reflect on the sacred work of therapy. A beautiful, essential contribution.” —Jennifer S. Ripley, Regent University
JANUARY 2026 • 256 pages • $29.99 • paper • 9781540968562
Joshua J. Knabb (PsyD, Azusa Pacific University), a board-certified clinical psychologist, is professor of psychology, director of the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program, and associate dean for the psychology division in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at California Baptist University. He also serves as editor for the Journal of Psychology and Christianity . Knabb is the author of many books, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Christian Clients and Christian Meditation in Clinical Practice.
CONTENTS 1.
An Introduction to Worship and Awe in Christian Mental Health
2. Worship and Awe in Christianity 3. Worship and Awe in Psychology 4. Christian Worship and Awe with Thoughts and Images 5. Christian Worship and Awe with Behaviors 6. Christian Worship and Awe with Relationships Index
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