Suffering

There are never quick fixes or easy answers when it comes to suffering. But even when we can't immediately see God's hand--when the struggle is hard and painful--he is working. Weaving together Scripture, personal stories, and the words of the classic hymn "How Firm a Foundation," David Powlison brings an experienced counselor's touch to exploring how God enters into our sufferings, helping us see God working in our own particular struggles--and discover how God's grace goes deeper than we could ever imagine.

Richard Sibbes (1577-1635), one of the most influential figures in the Puritan movement during the earlier years of the seventeenth century, was renowned for the rich quality of his ministry. The Bruised Reed shows why he was known among his contemporaries as 'the sweet dropper'.
Of all Richard Sibbes' works, The Bruised Reed has probably had the most enduring impact. It is an exposition of Matthew's application to Jesus of the description of the Servant of the Lord in Isaiah 42:3 (Matt. 12:20). Sibbes' wonderfully sensitive treatment has ministered to generations of Christians since its first publication in 1630. 

In Suffering and the Sovereignty of God, contributors John Piper, Joni Eareckson Tada, Steve Saint, Carl Ellis, David Powlison, Dustin Shramek, and Mark Talbot explore the many categories of God's sovereignty as evidenced in his Word. They urge readers to look to Christ, even in suffering, to find the greatest confidence, deepest comfort, and sweetest fellowship they have ever known.

Sorrow and suffering are unavoidable facts of life. But in our modern society they are so deeply feared that few of us ever think or talk seriously about them. Occasionally we may see someone show great faith in the face of severe trials, and yet never ask how that faith comes about. Behind a Frowning Providence talks openly about these things. It shows why faith is able to triumph in the face of all obstacles: it is focused on God's character and his promises to his people.