In Episode 4, Dr. Knabb tackles the topic of uncertainty, including the struggle humans have with the ambiguities of life, how our unwillingness to accept uncertainty can be linked to worry and anxiety, and what the secular clinical psychology literature has to say about the topic. A biblical view of uncertainty, worry, and anxiety is also covered, including the role that surrendering to God's providence in the midst of a yet-to-be-determined future can play in psychological and spiritual health in the Christian life. To conclude, a meditative exercise is offered, drawing upon a classic Christian spiritual writing, to help Christians begin to accept the unknowns of life because God cares for us and is guiding all of life, from the mundane to the significant.
References
Barclay, W. (1974). New testament words. Westminster John Knox Press.
Beasley-Topliffe, K. (Ed.). (2003). Providence. Upper Room Books.
Colombiere, C. (1980). Trustful surrender to divine providence: The secret of peace and happiness. Tan Books.
Dugas, M., & Robichaud, M. (2007). Cognitive-behavioral treatment for generalized anxiety disorder: From science to practice. Routledge.
Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.
Knabb, J., & Frederick, T. (2017). Contemplative prayer for Christians with chronic worry: An eight-week program. Routledge.
Knabb, J., Frederick, T., & Cumming, G. (2017). Surrendering to God’s providence: A three-part study on providence-focused therapy for recurrent worry (PFT-RW). Psychology of Religion and Spirituality, 9, 180-196.
Sexton, K. A., & Dugas, M. J. (2009). Defining distinct negative beliefs about uncertainty: Validating the factor structure of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale. Psychological Assessment, 21, 176–186.