Seasons of SorrowTim ChalliesTim Challies knows sorrow, having suddenly and unexpectedly lost a son in his prime. In 'Seasons of Sorrow' he reflects on the reality of his deep sense of grief and loss as he processed his thoughts and feelings in response. Challies offers the reader some rich insights into how to come to terms with the death of a loved one, how to see God's sovereignty and goodness even in difficult providences, and how to be faithful and even find renewed strength in the midst of heartache. This is a wonderful book for anyone walking the difficult path of grief and loss.
Walking with God Through Pain and SufferingTimothy KellerIn 'Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering', Tim Keller shows us that, despite what culture says, pain and suffering are inevitable. Given this fact, Keller argues that we need to know where to find the resources to maintain a strong faith and find spiritual growth so we're not blown of course when the inevitable happens. This is a profound book which is very helpful for anyone who is suffering, but it's an even better book to read in preparation for suffering, grief, and loss - read it before you need it!
A Grief ObservedC. S. LewisThis is C S Lewis' classic treatment of the loss of his beloved wife, Joy. She died just a few years into their marriage, and in 'A Grief Observed', Lewis writes from the heart, and with great honesty, about the grief of losing a loved one. As we enter our later years we sometimes experience this kind of grief, and if this is your path now, or you expect it to be, you will find much help and comfort in Lewis' short account.
God's Grace in Your SufferingDavidIn 'God's Grace in Your Suffering', seasoned counselling David Powlison walks the reader through how God uses seasons of suffering to show us more of his love and grace, and how we can find lasting comfort in a deepening faith. To do this he unpacks the great hymn, 'How Firm a Foundation' which is a hymn which explores the word of God as the foundation of our faith, and the person of Christ who provides all the grace we need in times of trouble, distress, and suffering.
When God WeepsJoni Eareckson Tada;Steve EstesIn 'when God Weeps', Joni Eareckson Tada wrestles with the purpose and meaning of our suffering. Joni, who famously suffered a tragic accident when swimming in the sea in her teens, is a helpful guide through this topic and shows how God can use our suffering to fulfil his purposes, and find greater meaning and purpose despite being in circumstances we wouldn't necessarily have chosen for ourselves.
A Grace Disguised Revised and ExpandedJerry L. SittserIn this revised edition of 'A Grace Disguised', Jerry Sittser uses the tragedy of losing his mother, wife, and daughter in a single car accident, to help us make sense of our loss. He understands the depth of pain of losing a loved one, and writes as one with authority on how we might grapple with the thoughts and emotions this produces, and how to emerge from a season of great distress to understand what God's plan may be. This is a sensitive and soul-searching book that will help anyone experiencing grief and loss.
Hearing Jesus Speak Into Your SorrowNancy GuthrieIn 'Hearing Jesus Speak Into Your Sorrow', Nancy Guthrie helps us find grace, perspective, and hope as we go through seasons of grief and sorrow. She encourages the reader to ask questions of God and to expect answers from his word, which we may have missed before. With her usual understanding, sensitivity, and wisdom, she points us to a deeper understanding of God's word as the key resource as we work through our struggles. Essentially reading!
Near to the Broken-HeartedAnna Martin'Near to the Broken-Hearted' is a refreshingly honest and practical book written to help parents work through bad news, past or future loss, or a child (whether young or older) who may face serious health issues. It offers perspective, grace, and hope to those struggling to process these issues, and the practical advice this book provides will be a considerable help for anyone seeking to help those going through some of these issues.
Grieving A SuicideAlbert Y. HsuIn the UK an average of 20 people die from suicide every day. It's a huge problem which makes books like this indispensable. In this essential book, Hsu deals with how to grieve the loss of someone who has died this way, having experienced the loss of his father to suicide. He breaks the book into three parts: biography; lingering questions; and life after suicide. Through real pain he offers real hope to anyone in this position or caring for someone who is.
What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps (and What Really Hurts)GuthrieWritten to help people care sensitively and/or pastorally for those experiencing a tough season of life, 'What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps (and What Really Hurts)' offers invaluable insights and wisdom fashioned from the crucible of Nancy Guthrie's own pain and suffering in the loss of two infant children. She implores people not to ignore these seasons of hurt in the lives of our friends and families, but to listen well, esteem their grief, not be deterred by tears, and not to ask insensitive questions. Nancy offers wise advice in a gentle and gracious style, which makes this an essential book in this category.