Walking With God Through Pain and Suffering

Excellent contextual introduction into the doubts and denial of suffering - leading into its Biblical evidence. Read this in a time of suffering myself that helped me realise its opportunity for self refinement and the genuine testing of my faith. I take heart knowing it’s inevitability and God’s place amongst life’s challenges.

I genuinely believe I wouldn’t have made it through my circumstances without this book.

As with all Tim Keller's books, you can expect a comprehensive view of the topic of suffering. Tim Keller discusses philosophical aspects at the beginning, then delve into more theological aspects that will help believers that are going through suffering. At the end of each chapter, there is a life story of other believers that are going through suffering, which is helpful. I am personally blessed with the book and would like to recommend for anyone, especially those that are going through suffering.

I read this book at a time in my life when I was suffering and although it was hard to pick up a book Keller spoke into my suffering so much so that I couldn't put this book down. \\r\\nThis book took me out of my own lens and helped me see my suffering the way God does. \\r\\nKeller explores three main themes with many references to scripture; understanding suffering, facing the challenges suffering raises in relation to God and walking with God through the suffering. \\r\\nAfter reading the book I have now attained a better understanding of the many purposes of suffering . It's always hard to see our suffering as something that produces good but there is fulfilness of joy through suffering. \\r\\nI believe this is a topic we cannot run from. Until we return to our home in heaven we will suffer in many different ways on this earth. Therefore, I also believe we need to understand suffering in order to live our lives to the glory of God. \\r\\nThis book has been a blessing in a time of suffering for me and I believe it is worth investing time to read it. If not for yourself than for others you may know who are suffering. \\r\\nMay we all continue to use our suffering to glorify our Heavenly Father just as Jesus did.

Two interesting ideas from this book are that God and heaven (as in the Bible) are more comforting to many people in society when faced with grief after death than the other alternatives, such as there is nothing after death, and that suffering is a normal or common part of life (as in the Bible), and denying this adds to the suffering when it comes. \\r\\n\\r\\nAs usual, Keller includes many other ideas which will keep you thinking long after you have put down the book.

Keller tackles the difficult subject of human suffering with great insight and sensitivity. It is well researched and further supported by the personal accounts of people who know and have great experienced pain. Keller directs the reader towards a biblical understanding of suffering and the assurance one can have despite life's circumstances. Beneficial for anyone involved in ministering to or supporting those who are going through hardship.