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 - read it before you need it!
Invest your SufferingPaul MallardIn 'Invest Your Suffering', Paul Mallard, himself personally familiar with suffering, shows how one can face health challenges with a positivity - even in times of despair - which helps one to press on and inspires others to do likewise. Essential reading for anyone going through the trials which come with health issues.
Dark Clouds, Deep MercyMark VroegopIn the award-winning 'Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy', Mark Vroegop reminds us of the grace that can be found in the difficult seasons of life and how God hears and speaks to us in our lament. He digs deep into the wells of Scripture, particularly the Psalms of Lament and Lamentations, to show the vast resources of grace at our disposal in Christ during life's valleys. Highly recommended for anyone going through tough times or seeking to help someone who is.
Be Still My SoulGuthrieIn 'Be Still My Soul', Nancy Guthrie draws on some of the best-known authors and preachers (past and present) to provide us with 25 meditations on the subject of pain. From John Calvin to Tim Keller, Jonathan Edwards to Sinclair Ferguson, each contribution helps us understand how God uses pain and suffering in the lives of his people, and how he provides grace in such seasons. This is a brilliant book and will help anyone grappling with the problem of pain or perhaps experiencing this first-hand.
When Pain Is Real and God Seems SilentLigon DuncanIn 'When Pain Is Real and God Seems Silent', Ligon Duncan looks at the issue of pain and suffering through the lens of Psalm 88 & 89, pointing us to the reality that God is real, hears our cries, and answers our prayers as we cling to him and ask for his mercy. The book offers assurance that his mercy will sustain us as we navigate life's more difficult seasons.
Suffering Wisely and WellEric OrtlundIn 'Suffering Wisely and Well', Eric Ortlund explores the perennial question of why God allows pain and suffering by looking at the Bible and showing how God used pain and suffering in the lives of some of the godliest characters in Scripture to fulfil his purposes. This is a book full of hope which teaches us that in times of pain, God is refining us and using our response as a means to strengthen others and witness to a watching world.
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.
He Will Hold Me Fast.Connie DeverIn 'He Will hold Me Fast', Connie Dever writes about dealing with cancer - from experience. She shows how she dealt with her diagnosis and treatment, and in an honest account, opens up on her fears and struggles, and how she clung to God when finding things difficult. However, the book shows much of God's sustaining grace in the midst of suffering, and any sufferer will be encouraged by reading it.
Rejoicing in LamentJ Todd BillingsTodd Billings wrote 'Rejoicing in Lament' following a diagnosis of incurable cancer. As he wrestles with his faith in light of his diagnosis, Billings shows tremendous honesty and emotion, and within the cauldron of struggles and fears, he provides an awesome example of how we can find peace and courage in Scripture, particularly the Psalms. If you're suffering with cancer, or walking with someone who is, this is a must-read.