This book was so timely in my life. There is so much written on this topic or maybe, I am just noticing it more at the moment. But this book brings not only Scripture in, but hymns which can speak in a way that is on a different level.

Oh my goodness! I am struggling and I need help...ever been there? And sometimes, you can't seem to connect with anyone at that specific moment, well, the good news is why don't you purchase this book, go to a restaurant and sit down with a friend who is going to speak truth and encouragement into your life? This book is solid. Whether you are emotionally exhausted, physically ran down, or mentally tired, this book is a breath of fresh air. I am going to highly encourage this book to anyone in need of great insight, love, and truth. Thank you David for pressing in and speaking on a tough issue.

A shadow reaches toward you. It covers you. Its inner logic whispers or shouts of death. And God says, "I am here with you." Can you honestly say, "I fear no evil"? Can you say that in terms of the specific evils and hardships of your life? it all depends on whether you hear the God who gives you reasons to say it. If the God of life is in fact with you, carrying you as a newborn lamb, you can become fearless in any suffering. In the ups and downs, the painful struggles of a lifetime, this is the destination toward you which you struggle.

Jesus is enough. The pain brings you to that statement and it is only when our suffering we experience God's grace like no other. No on enjoys suffering and this is not about the denial of suffering. It is about being in the midst of our pain how we respond to others and to God.

Powlison has experienced pain and suffering as well and he shares his experience with the reader along how we cling to God in the middle of our circumstances. Scripture is filled with the pains of this world and the grace and mercy we receive. Circumstances do not change but it is our faith that gives us the means to extend mercy and grace to others. Powlison teaches that our pain either keeps us self-centered or God-centered. Does the pain keep the focus on us? Woe is me? Or does the pain point us to faith in God's sovereignty.

Pain is a teacher of love and of wisdom. We can experience pain in different ways and it important to distinguish the pain of sin or true sufferings. The pain of sin is meant for us to repent and turn while the pain of suffering is meant to teach us something more. Personally, I think it can be different for each person but the ultimate is being in God's presence. To say that Jesus is enough.

The study of pain and suffering Powlison takes the hymn "How Firm a Foundation" and unpacks scripture and the hope that we have in our circumstances. Along with his own experiences, he encourages you to engage in your own sufferings. Listing your own pain and fears. He asks you hard questions to become intentional with bringing to the Lord what keeps us away from the Lord.

I highly recommend.

A Special Thank You to Crossway Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

The author uses Scripture and the hymn "How Firm a Foundation" to encourage us in our suffering. It is very readable and I would recommend it for those who are suffering.