What the Bible Says About Suffering: Where is God When we Suffer?

Have you ever asked yourself that question?

Where is God When We Suffer? addresses the topic from up close and personal as well as from the objective view of Scripture. It begins with Lynn's own story of loss and suffering. Dr. Gardner then guides us through a study of both Old and New Testament examples of people who suffer.

Why did they suffer? How did they deal with it? What can we learn from their experiences? This book also includes a philosophical discussion of evil and suffering for those who want an analysis of this difficult topic from a biblical perspective. How can an all-powerful, all-loving God permit such pain and tragedy in the world He created? In the final forth of the book, Dr. Gardner gives very practical advice on what helps people who are suffering and what does not. He also lists scriptural principles that offer help and hope for those going through hard times and for the family and friends trying to help them.

Obviously, there are situations that are not directly addressed in the Bible because of societal, changes, culture, and technology. Yet, if the Bible is the ultimate authority on life and relationships, it is the essential source of information that will impact everyday decisions.

This book provides a valuable overview of the biblical teaching on suffering, but it does much more. It is filled with practical counsel, drawn both from the teaching of Scripture and a lifetime of ministry.

"Always the author points us back to what the Bible itself says about suffering. And in the end, that's the best place anyone can go." (Taken from the Foreward by Sam Stone) 

Where is God When We Suffer has 21 chapters and 381 pages.

What others have said about Where is God When We Suffer?:

Bob Russell, retired minister, Southeast Christian Church, Louisville, KY.

"I found Lynn's book very helpful for two reasons. First, it is a transparent and inspirational perspective from one who has maintained a strong faith through horrible experiences. Secondly, Lynn does not take the typical Calvinistic approach that all suffering comes from God but acknowledges that much suffering occurs because we live in a fallen, painful world. It is helpful to be reminded that instead of being bitter against God we should be angry about the consequences of sin and the destructive work of Satan."

PreachingNOW, Feb. 5, 2008

"The issue of suffering is an ever-present concern in Christian ministry, and most of us touch on that issue from time to time in preaching. A new helpful resource is Lynn Gardner's Where Is God When We Suffer? (College Press Publishing). A long-time Bible college professor, Gardner shares out of his own experience, then goes a good job of surveying biblical insights about suffering. This will be a useful tool as we preach and teach on the subject."

About the Author...

Lynn Gardner has taught in Bible Colleges for 40 years, teaching primarily in the New Testament and Apologetics areas. He served as the Academic Dean of Ozark Christian College for 1981 through 1998. Dr. Gardner earned a B.Th. from Ozark Christian College, a B.A. from California State College, an M.A. from Wheaton Graduate School, and earned his Ed.D. from the University of Arkansas. suffer, Lynn Gardner, Grief, Hurting, Hurt, death, grieving