Description
Why Suffering Exists: God's Purpose for Pain in the Life of Job and throughout Scripture
Why does God allow suffering? The pain of suffering can be overwhelmingly mysterious, but the Bible does provide answers. Throughout Scripture, God allows trials in order to accomplish specific purposes in the lives of his people. When faced with suffering they experience spiritual growth; repentance from sin; or, as in the Old Testament story of Job, the chance to demonstrate devotion to God in the face of inexplicable agony.
In Suffering Wisely and Well, Eric Ortlund explores different types of trials throughout Scripture, revealing the spiritual purpose for each and reassuring readers with God's promise of restoration. The majority of the book focuses on Job, one of the most well-known yet misunderstood stories of suffering. Ortlund thoughtfully analyzes the text chapter by chapter, including the doubt of Job's friends, God's response to Job's questions, and the meaning behind important imagery including references to Leviathan and Behemoth. Suffering Wisely and Well shows readers how to deepen their relationship with God during painful experiences in their own lives and how to comfort others who are hurting.
Distinctives
- Chapters end with a "What Have We Learned?" summary
- Helps readers understand how to interpret suffering from a biblical perspective
- Teaches Christians how to avoid blame or legalism when addressing the suffering of others
Author: Eric Ortlund
Publisher: Crossway
Published: 02/22/2022
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.50lbs
Size: 8.40h x 5.50w x 0.60d
ISBN13: 9781433576485
ISBN10: 1433576481
BISAC Categories:
- Religion | Biblical Commentary | Old Testament | Poetry & Wisdom Litera
- Religion | Christian Ministry | Counseling & Recovery
- Religion | Christian Living | Spiritual Growth
About the Author
Eric Ortlund (PhD, University of Edinburgh) teaches at Oak Hill College in London, England. He previously taught Old Testament at Briercrest College and Seminary in Saskatchewan, Canada, for ten years. He and his wife, Erin, have two children.