Books that have Impacted My Christian Walk (Part 2 - When You Pass Through the Fire)

The Christian walk is neither random nor rosy; unless you consider that roses have thorns.  Like roses, the Christian walk is sometimes sweet and sometimes marked with sorrows.  In his farewell discourse recorded in the Gospel of John, Jesus reminded his disciples that their lot in this world would be no different than his own when he said, "In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).  Along with this warning and word of comfort, Jesus commanded his disciples "Be on your guard!" (Mark 13:9, 23, 33).  I am thankful for a handful of books that speak clearly and aptly to my need for comfort and encouragement during the low and trying times of life.

What Watson summarizes in seventeen pages concerning the compassion of Christ for the weak and the distressed disciples (see previous post regarding The Godly Man's Picture, Richard Sibbes drew out in brilliant detail in his The Bruised Reed some 36 years earlier. This is the second book that I would like to recommend to you. This book represents a particular aspect of discipleship, mainly the low points, the slough of despond, or even the passing through the fires. Watson and Sibbes are surely among the easiest to read of the Puritans. Others would understandably include Matthew Henry and John Bunyan. 

Sibbes differed from many of his Puritan friends in that he never departed from the Church of England. Rather, he fought for the same reforms from within. For an excellent biography of Richard Sibbes, I recommend Mark Dever's Richard Sibbes (Mercer University Press, 2000). A great source to learn more about the lives and major writings of the Puritans is Joel Beeke and Randall Peterson's Meet the Puritans (Reformation Heritage Books, 2007).  It is a treasure-trove of information.

Of Sibbes, C. H. Spurgeon wrote: "Sibbes never wastes the student’s time, he scatters pearls and diamonds with both hands." One seventeenth century author praised Sibbes with the words: "Heaven was in him, before he was in heaven."

The reading of this book supplied Richard Baxter with “a livelier apprehension of the mystery of redemption.” Baxter goes on to indicate that the reading of the book was instrumental in his conversion to faith in Jesus Christ.

D. Martyn-Lloyd Jones wrote,

I shall never cease to be grateful to one of them [the Puritans] called Richard Sibbes who was balm to my soul at a period in my life when I was overworked and badly overtired, and therefore subject in an unusual manner to the onslaughts of the devil…. I found at that time that Richard Sibbes, who was known in London in the early seventeenth century as “The Heavenly Doctor Sibbes” was an unfailing remedy. His books The Bruised Reed and The Soul’s Conflict quietened, soothed, comforted, encouraged and healed me.

The Bruised Reed is a treatise based upon Isa. 42:1-3 and Matt. 12:18-20 which states that these words are fulfilled in Christ. Permit me to offer a few highlights:

What It Is To Be Bruised 

The bruised reed is a man that for the most part is in some misery, as those were that came to Christ for help, and by misery he is brought to see sin as the cause of it…. 

He is sensible of sin and misery, even unto bruising; and, seeing no help in himself, is carried with restless desire to have supply from another, with some hope, which a little raises him out of himself to Christ, though he dare not claim any present interest in mercy. This spark of hope being opposed by doubtings and fears rising from corruption makes him as smoking flax; so that both these together, a bruised reed and smoking flax, make up the state of a poor distressed man. 

He has no means of supply from himself or the creature, and therefore mourns, and, upon some hope of mercy from the promise and examples of those that have obtained mercy, is stirred up to hunger and thirst after it. 

A portion that spoke to me in particular (and still challenges me) is chapter 5, The Spirit of Mercy Should Move Us, which addresses preachers and fellow Christians within the Church. Sibbes writes:

Preachers need to take heed therefore how they deal with young believers. Let them be careful not to pitch matters too high, making things necessary evidences of grace which agree not to the experience of many a good Christian, and laying salvation and damnation upon things that are not fit to bear so great a weight. In this way men are needlessly cast down and may not soon be raised up again by themselves or others. The ambassadors of so gentle a Saviour should not be overbearing, setting up themselves in the hearts of people where Christ alone should sit as in his own Temple. (26) 

This is applicable to all…but directed to spiritual leaders. 

And likewise those are failing that, by overmuch austerity, drive back troubled souls from having comfort by them, for, as a result of this, many smother their temptations, and burn inwardly, because they have none into whose bosom they may vent their grief and ease their souls. 

We must neither bind where God looses, nor loose where God binds, neither open where God shuts, nor shut where God opens. (28) 

Particularly to private Christians, Sibbes calls us to note that “we are debtors to the weak in many things.” 

1. Let us be watchful in the use of our liberty, and labour to be inoffensive in our behaviour, that our example compel them not. 
2. Let men take heed of taking up Satan’s office, in misrepresenting the good actions of others, as he did Job’s case…, or slandering their persons, judging of them according to the wickedness that is in their own hearts. 
3. Some will unchurch and unbrother in a passion. But ill humours do not alter true relations; though the child in a fit should disclaim the mother, yet the mother will not disclaim the child. … Where most holiness is, there is most moderation, where it may be without prejudice to God and the good of others. … The Holy Ghost is content to dwell in smoky, offensive souls. Oh, that that Spirit would breathe into our spirits the same merciful disposition!

The church of Christ is a common hospital, wherein all are in some measure sick of some spiritual disease of other, so all have occasion to exercise the spirit of wisdom and meekness. (34) 

Let us take to ourselves the condition of him with whom we deal. We are, or have been, or may be in that condition ourselves. Let us make the case our own, and also consider in what near relation a Christian stands to us, even as a brother, a fellow-member, heir of the same salvation. And therefore let us take upon ourselves a tender care of them in every way; and especially in cherishing the peace of their consciences. (34) 

Supplemental Reading 
Finally, permit me to suggest a few other titles that are similarly helpful along the lines of comfort and help for the week and lowly.  First, a recently published book that should be read by every pastor is Rid of My Disgrace: Hope and Healing for Victims of Sexual Assault by Justin and Lindsey Holcomb.  Please see my review posted here.  Second, another book along similar lines as the first but from a victims perspective is No Place to Cry by Dorris VanStone.  I found a reference to this book one Saturday morning, found it available to be purchased and read via my Kindle, purchased it and read it before the day was finished.  I rarely read books in one sitting but this one captivated my attention, broke my heart, and then displayed God's compassionate grace in a breathtaking way. Praise God, we have such a gentle Savior! Finally, a book that was introduced to me years ago that, no doubt, was influenced by writings of Richard Sibbes (see Lloyd-Jones's comment above) is Spiritual Depression: Its Causes and Cures by D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones.  This, too, is gospel-filled help for Christians who find themselves "in the doldrums" or, at the least, lacking Christian joy.

Related:
Read the introductory post to this series: Thoughts on Christian Reading
Part 1 - Discipleship
Part 3 - Learning to Pray

Books that have Impacted My Christian Walk (Part 2 - When You Pass Through the Fire)

The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

November 2011 marks the 40th anniversary of the first publication of The Hiding Place, the true story of God’s grace triumphing over the horror of Nazi tyranny. The story concerns the ten Boom family of Haarlem, Netherlands: Corrie, sisters Betsie and Nollie, brother Willem, and their father and family patriarch Casper ten Boom. God’s grace is evident in this family, all of them believers in Christ, including the spouses and children of Willem and Nollie. Their faith is tested as they have to deal with German occupation and, eventually, arrest and imprisonment for their part in the underground resistance helping Jews escape to freedom. Some family members died in prison or were deported to Germany and never seen again. Like everyone else, the survivors came out of the ordeal with physical and emotional/spiritual scars. How do survivors of such horror pick up the pieces and get on with their lives? What about the enemies who survived? This is the theme of the book, that God can touch and change any heart wounded by sin and suffering, that love is stronger than hate, specifically, God’s love to us through Christ.

The first four chapters of the book give important background to the main story. Chapter one, “The One Hundredth Birthday Party,” relates the big celebration in Haarlem for the 100th anniversary of the watch repair shop owned by Casper ten Boom. This chapter introduces all the main characters in the story. Corrie reflects on this happy celebration, slightly marred by news of events taking place in Germany, and says,

The shadow fell across us that winter afternoon in 1937, but it rested lightly. Nobody dreamed that this tiny cloud would grow until it blocked out the sky. And nobody dreamed that in this darkness each of us would be called to play a role: Father and Betsie and Mr. Kan and Willem—even the funny old Beje [their house] with its unmatching floor levels and ancient angles. (p. 31. Page numbers are from the 2006 35th Anniversary Edition published by Chosen Books.)

In chapters 2 – 4 Corrie takes us back to her childhood as she learns about life and God from her parents. She learns about sickness and loss through the death of her mother and aunts, who lived with them. She learns also about watch making, doing business when others aren’t completely honest, about love and the loss of love, and trusting God with these hurts. All these lessons come into play during the war when she has nothing left to trust except God. These opening chapters move more slowly than the rest of the book, but they are essential and spiritually profitable. According to the author, “The experiences of our lives, when we let God use them, become the mysterious and perfect preparation for the work He will give us to do.” (p. 31)

Beginning with chapter 5, “Invasion,” the action picks up. Hitler’s forces move into Haarlem, bringing ever-tightening martial law. As Nazi persecution of the Jews increases, the ten Booms become involved in the resistance, hiding Jews in their house and helping them to leave the country. They construct a wall in Corrie’s bedroom to create a small space for people to hide in case of a Gestapo raid. The opening to the secret room was well concealed. A buzzer system warned Jews and resistance workers in the house to flee upstairs to the hiding place. During this time Corrie and her family continued to read the Bible and minister to everyone that came to their house.

In spite of good planning and execution, the ten Booms were eventually caught. On February 28, 1944 a man pretending to need help came to their house. He was a Nazi spy who turned in the ten Booms to the Gestapo. During the raid the Jews made it to the secret room, but the family was arrested. Despite a thorough search the Nazis never found the room, which they believed existed and was hiding Jews.

The ten Booms were taken to a local prison where Casper ten Boom, now in his 80s, died. Corrie and Betsie were separated for months but reunited when everyone was moved to a prison camp farther into Holland. As the allied forces advanced the Nazis found it necessary to move all prisoners to another camp deep in Germany—Ravensbruck, an extermination camp for women. The sisters traveled together with only their faith and a few possessions, including a small Bible that had been smuggled in to Corrie.

At Ravensbruck conditions were far worse than anything they had yet seen. The women were forced to do back-breaking labor, subsisting on meager rations and living in filthy barracks. Hate was the order of the day, and most of the women lost hope. Even Corrie struggled with hatred for the guards. But Betsie pitied them and prayed for them, encouraging Corrie to do the same.

The sisters conducted nightly services for all the women who could crowd around them in the barracks, using the Bible they had smuggled into camp. Soon the atmosphere of the barracks changed as the Lord worked in the hearts of the women. Many of them found hope in Christ. Corrie, too, found help for her besieged spirit. In this section we realize that the book’s title has a double meaning. The “hiding place” is not just a little room, but “Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word” (Psalm 119:114).

The circumstances of the story are dark, but the darkness is the backdrop against which the grace of God shines ever brighter. Betsie’s health broke in Ravensbruck, and shortly before she died, she said to Corrie, “. . . must tell people what we have learned here. We must tell them that there is no pit so deep that He is not deeper still. They will listen to us, Corrie, because we have been here.” (p. 227)

A few days after Betsie’s death, Corrie was released. Many years later Corrie learned that her release had been because of a “clerical error” and that a week after her release all the women her age were sent to the gas chamber. For decades Corrie ten Boom traveled around the world telling her story and pointing people to Christ. Many lives wounded by war and hate have been healed through her ministry.

If you’ve never read this book, I highly recommend it to you. It is very edifying. Co-written by Elizabeth and John Sherrill.
______________________________________

Available from Amazon in several formats—
Deluxe paperback edition (35th Anniversary Edition) Better paper and print quality and opens more easily than the mass market edition.

Hendrickson hardcover edition

Paperback Mass Market edition

The Hiding Place DVD Movie (Excellent)

A comic book version of The Hiding Place is available for free download from Spire Christian Comics. Gives the gist of the story and is good for children to read.

The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

Carson's Pastoral Reflections on Suffering & Evil

The following notes are highlights from Carson's chapter 13, "Some Pastoral Reflections," in How Long, O Lord? Reflections on Suffering and Evil (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1990).

When unbelievers grieve, there are opportunities for Christians to help and serve and share the gospel; but in this book I am not specifically addressing that challenge (though of course many of the same things apply).  Here I have the Christian in view.

1. We must recognize that grief normally passes through predictable stages.

 The value of recognizing that stages of grief are common, however, is that the person who is trying to offer comfort will see the telltale signs and respond appropriately.... It would do many would-be comforters good to sit down and read the moving and candidly personal book of Nicholas Wolterstorff, Lament for a Son, written after his twenty-five-year old son was killed in a mountain-climbing accident. 

[Dr. Carson also references C. S. Lewis's A Grief Observed in other parts of this book. Another book along similar lines recommended to me by Michael Howell, our Minister of Pastoral Care at our home church (Trinity), is Benjamin Morgan Palmer's Death in the Home: A Christian Father Responds to Loss. I would also add my recommendation of John Goldingay's Walk On; Layton Talbert's Not By Chance: Learning to Trust a Sovereign God and Beyond Suffering: Discovering the Message of Job; as well as these representative missionary biographies: the two-volume biography of J. Hudson Taylor, and Darlene Deibler Rose's Evidence Not Seen.]

2. Some grief takes a long time to heal.
3. Frequently in the midst of suffering the most comforting "answers" are simple presence, help, silence, tears.
4. Many verbal expressions of encouragement should not be based on the assumption that they must answer an implicit "Why?"
5. When verbalized answers to anguished cries of "Why?" are required, what and how much we provide will depend largely on what might be called our spiritual diagnosis, that tis, our assessment of the needs and capacity of the individual. 

When a Christian I do not know very well asks that sort of question, my response to that question may be, "I cannot give you all the answers to your 'Why?' But you may draw courage from the fact that the one who loves you so much he died for you asked the same question: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?""

6. There is nothing in Scripture to encourage us to think we should always be free from the vicissitudes that plague a dying world.... But where self-seeking, self-gratifying forms of Western Christianity predominate, it is essential to lay out these truths, loudly and often.
7. For one reason or another, suffering is often associated with guilt feelings.
8. Some forms of suffering require active intervention.

In countless instances, Christians provide—they must provide—more than a counseling service or a shoulder to cry on.

9. It is important to offer hope.
10. It is important to help people to live one day at a time.
11. Above all, we must help people know God better.
12. To this end, we must pray for those who suffer.

Carson's Pastoral Reflections on Suffering & Evil

Sweet Will Be the Flower

I received the following note from one of the ministers at my church and want to share it here. These are very sobering words which ring crystal clear to all who have undergone such "frowning providences."

Jason, thank you for this.

It reminds me of a passage in Spurgeon's An All-Round Ministry, where he writes, "If some men, that I know of, could only be favored with a month of rheumatism, it would, by God's grace, mellow them marvellously...I would not wish for any man a long time of sickness and pain; but a twist now and then one might almost ask for him. A sick wife, a newly-made grave, poverty, slander, sinking of spirit, might teach lessons nowhere else to be learned so well. Trials drive us to the realities of religion."

Michael

Here's William Cowper's meditation upon this same theme which is one of my favorite hymns.

Light Shining Out of Darkness

William Cowper (1731–1800)

God moves in a mysterious way

His wonders to perform;

He plants his footsteps in the sea,

And rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines

Of never-failing skill,

He treasures up his bright designs,

And works his sovereign will.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take,

The clouds ye so much dread

Are big with mercy, and shall break

In blessings on your head.

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,

But trust him for his grace;

Behind a frowning providence

He hides a smiling face.

His purposes will ripen fast,

Unfolding every hour;

The bud may have a bitter taste,

But sweet will be the flower.

Blind unbelief is sure to err,

And scan his work in vain;

God is his own interpreter,

And he will make it plain.

Sweet Will Be the Flower

The Triumph of John and Betty Stam

75 years ago today John and Betty Stam, missionaries to the Chinese, were killed by Communist soldiers in a public execution, along with the town doctor, who had pleaded for their lives. The Stams were captured while trying to leave the town of Tsingteh with their 3 month old daughter, Helen. Mrs. Stam managed to hide her baby, who was later found by Christians and returned to America. John and Betty showed the courage of those who know who holds their future. In the words of Mrs. Howard Taylor:

Those who witnessed the tragedy marveled, as they testify, at the calmness with which both John and Betty faced the worst their misguided enemies could do. Theirs was the moral, spiritual triumph in that hour when the very forces of hell seemed to be let loose. Painfully bound with ropes , their hands behind them, stripped of their outer garments and John barefooted (he had given Betty his socks to wear), they passed down the street where he was known to many, while the Reds shouted their ridicule and called the people to come and see the execution.

Like their Master, they were led up a little hill outside the town. There, in a clump of pine trees, the communists harangued the unwilling onlookers, too terror-stricken to utter protest. But one man broke the ranks! The doctor of the place and a Christian expressed the feelings of many when he fell on his knees and pleaded for the life of his friends. Angrily repulsed by the Reds, he still persisted, until he was dragged away as prisoner, to suffer death when it appeared that he too was a follower of Christ.

John had turned to the leader of the band, asking mercy for that man, when he was sharply ordered to kneel - and the look of joy on his face afterward told of the unseen Presence with them as his spirit was released. Betty was seen to quiver, but only for a moment. Bound as she was, she fell on her knees beside him. A quick command, the flash of a sword, which mercifully she did not see - and they were reunited.
--Mrs. Howard Taylor. John and Betty Stam: A Story of Triumph (Chicago: Moody Press, 1982) pp. 119-120

Though they had only a short ministry, John and Betty Stam's faith in Christ encouraged many nationals to continue giving the Gospel and inspired many others to become missionaries. God made the wrath of man to praise Him. He didn't forget or forsake His suffering servants; He honored them.

Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated— of whom the world was not worthy.
--Hebrews 11:36-38

See also-
Vance Christie. John and Betty Stam: Missionary Martyrs (Christian Focus Publications, 2008)

The Triumph of John and Betty Stam

Suffering and the Sovereignty of God edited by John Piper and Justin Taylor

This week Crossway is highlighting Suffering and the Sovereignty of God edited by John Piper and Justin Taylor. The quotes below remind me of the maxim of Gregory of Nazianzus, "The unassumed is the unhealed."

Why does suffering exist? How does it advance the mission of the church? How does God’s grace enter suffering? What is the role of hope when things look utterly hopeless?

Suffering and the Sovereignty of God is written to the white-robed army of martyrs “…until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete.” Editors John Piper and Justin Taylor along with a number of contributors deal with the issue of human suffering as it relates to God’s sovereignty.

• Contents
• Excerpt: Introduction and Chapter 1 - 422K PDF
• Back Cover

Excerpts:

Here’s a taste of what you’ll find:

“But when God chooses to overcome our rebellion and Satan’s resistance, nothing can stop him. And when God overcomes him and us, we repent and Satan’s power is broken. Here it is in 2 Timothy 2:24-26.” (Piper, 28).

“The mystery of why God has ordained the evils he has is as deep as the mystery of the evils in our hearts. And just as only God can plumb the depths of our hearts, so only God knows how the hurts we do to each other and to ourselves figure into his loving cure of us who shelter ourselves under the blood and righteousness of his Son.” (Talbot, 77).

“In the life and death of Jesus Christ, suffering finds its ultimate purpose and ultimate explanation: suffering exists so God might display the greatness of the glory of the grace of God by suffering in himself to overcome our suffering. Everything—everything—that Christ accomplished for us sinners he accomplished by suffering. Everything we will ever enjoy will come to us because of suffering.” (Piper, 87).

“If we are going to emulate our Savior, we have to identify with the people to whom we take his good news. I don’t advocate that we look for suffering; life brings enough on its own. But what I do advocate is that suffering is an important prerequisite to ministering to hurting people. Christ took on our likeness and subjected himself to the suffering that plagues us.” (Saint, 121).

“So often the initial reaction to painful suffering is Why me? If all that God promises only comes true, then why not me?” (Powlison, 172-173).

“Our fears, anger, doubts, and everything else we feel in our pain don’t make God nervous or uncomfortable with us. God still loves us, and he is still for us.” (Shramek, 189).

Suffering and the Sovereignty of God edited by John Piper and Justin Taylor

Martyn Lloyd-Jones Faced Death with Joy

On this day in 1981 Welsh preacher Martyn Lloyd-Jones finished his earthly pilgrimage and entered the presence of his Savior. He had suffered from throat cancer for many months until he was no longer able to speak. When he realized his condition would not improve, he decided to suspend further treatments and requested his family not to pray for healing: "Do not hold me back from the glory." He was ready to meet the Lord.

Lloyd-Jones' refusal to take antibiotics caused his doctor to say, "It grieves me to see you sitting here 'weary and worn and sad.'" ML-J's reply was one of the last things he was heard to say: "Not sad!". . ."Not sad!" While reading Scripture with his daughter Elizabeth (2 Cor. 4:16-18), she asked her father if his experience was like the Apostle Paul's—the inner man being renewed and his light affliction working glory for him. Though unable to speak, "he nodded his head with great vigour."

Martyn Lloyd-Jones faced death the way he had faced life, trusting completely in Christ and His imputed righteousness. He was a successful and well-respected preacher, but he didn't rely on his success for his joy. Several months before his death he impressed upon his biographer, Iain Murray, the importance of Christ's command to His disciples after a successful mission: "Notwithstanding in this rejoice not that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven" (Luke 10:20).

'Bear that in mind,' he said solemnly. 'Our greatest danger is to live upon our activity. The ultimate test of a preacher is what he feels like when he cannot preach.' Our relationship to God is to be the supreme cause of joy. To lean upon our sermons or words of testimony from others is 'a real snare for all preachers'. 'We cannot lean on them'. (Iain H. Murray, D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: The Fight of Faith 1939-1981; Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust; 1990. p. 738, emphasis mine)

On the night of February 28, 1981 Lloyd-Jones read Scripture, and his daughter Ann prayed with him before he fell asleep. Sometime during the early morning hours of March 1 he awoke in the presence of the Lord. On this day we remember David Martyn Lloyd-Jones, who faithfully expounded the Word, gave us a sense of the presence of God, and modeled what he preached in his living and dying.

As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness (Psalm 17:15).

Martyn Lloyd-Jones Faced Death with Joy

Perplexed by God's Dealings?

Al Mohler posted a good article on November 12 titled, "Is It Legitimate to Question God?" Many Christians have struggled with perplexity sometimes over God's providential dealings with them. What they've experienced in life doesn't seem at first to line up with what they've read in Scripture. If you've ever been there, you're in good company. Even God's people in the Bible went through these deep waters.

Habakkuk was a prophet who couldn't understand why God didn't do something about His sinning people. He knew God is holy and will not condone sin, but at the time God seemed to be silent. When he prayed about this, God's answer drove the prophet into deeper perplexity: God was going to chastise His unfaithful people by means of a nation far more wicked!

God's continued dealings with His distraught servant taught Habakkuk that there was an ultimate purpose in this way of discipline that would issue in God's greater glory and His people's greater good. The LORD showed him the big picture. In God's time the proud invaders would be destroyed; the repentant backsliders would be restored. Habakkuk's prayer of submission and praise in chapter three shows that he had gained scriptural perspective.

The events in our lives sometimes make us wonder: is God listening; does He care; has He turned against us; how should we think about this situation and deal with it? I'd like to recommend a couple of books that deal with these questions. Banner of Truth recently released a new book by Walter Chantry, Habakkuk: A Wrestler with God. From the publisher's description:

As Walter Chantry shows in this absorbing book, Habakkuk lived out his name by wrestling with God in prayer in the midst of a national and international situation resembling our own in many respects. As we read his prophecy, we hear Habakkuk pray, then listen as the Almighty responds. The divine response at first seems overwhelming. Yet at its centre is a glorious revelation of the very heart of the gospel (Hab. 2:4). In this brief exposition, previously published in the Banner of Truth magazine, Chantry draws out themes that are timely, challenging, but ultimately full of comfort.

Another book worth studying is Martyn Lloyd-Jones' Faith on Trial, which is now back in print. It consists of a series of sermons Lloyd-Jones preached on Psalm 73, which deals with a saint's perplexity over why the wicked prosper. Very edifying! I have a copy of Faith: Tried and Triumphant, which is a combination of Faith on Trial and Lloyd-Jones' earlier little book on Habakkuk, From Fear to Faith. In this book are six sermons on Habakkuk that are highly instructive. I like the titles of his sermons:

• The Strangeness of God's Ways

• The Prophet's Perplexity

• Waiting for God's Answer

• 'The Just Shall Live By Faith'

• How to Pray

• How to Rejoice in Tribulations

From Fear to Faith should be reprinted. Used copies are sometimes expensive, but if you get Faith Tried and Triumphant you get both Lloyd-Jones titles for a good price.

It's encouraging to see other people struggle with these issues and come to a believing resolution. They're perplexed and grieved, too; but the same Lord who dealt with Habakkuk has given them the same perspective and faith. I know the Lloyd-Jones books are helpful, and I'm looking forward to reading Walter Chantry's new book because of his reputation as a godly expositor and because of his challenging subject material.

Many good books are available on the subject of perplexity. What are some of yours? Please let us know in the comments.

Though the fig tree should not blossom,
nor fruit be on the vines,
the produce of the olive fail
and the fields yield no food,
the flock be cut off from the fold
and there be no herd in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord;
I will take joy in the God of my salvation.
God, the Lord, is my strength;
he makes my feet like the deer's;
he makes me tread on my high places.

(Hab. 3:17-19)

Perplexed by God's Dealings?

Book Review: Polishing God's Monuments

This morning we posted a review of the following book written by Douglas Brown at SharperIron.

Andrews, James. Polishing God’s Monuments: Pillars of Hope for Punishing Times. Wapwallopen, PA: Shepherd Press, 2007. Paperback, 286 pages. $14.95

Purchase: Shepherd Press | WTS | Amazon | CBD

ISBNS: 097675827X / 9780976758273

Read the full review here.

I hope that you will read take a few minutes to read this review as well as the comments in the discussion forum (here). This a pretty sensitive subject, but well worth a bit of careful discussion. If you have any other comments to add, please do so, or leave a comment here.

Book Review: Polishing God's Monuments

Latimer and Ridley Light a Candle

On October 16, 1555 English ministers Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley were burned at the stake in Oxford by Queen Mary I. Along with Thomas Cranmer, who was burned 5 months later, they became known as the "Oxford martyrs." While these were not "ignorant and unlearned" men (they were educated and influential) they had the same spirit as the apostles, who rejoiced to suffer shame for the name of Jesus Christ.

Both men held positions of honor in the Church of England. Latimer was imprisoned for a time by Henry VIII but was restored after Henry's young son Edward VI came to the throne and the Church instituted more reforms. When Edward's sister Mary succeeded him, Latimer stood trial for his beliefs and went back to prison to await execution.

Ridley seems to have suffered worse in the flames than did his friend. "Latimer encouraged his fellow-sufferer with the famous words: 'Be of good comfort, Master Ridley, and play the man. We shall this day light such a candle by God's grace in England as I trust shall never be put out'" (S.M. Houghton, Sketches from Church History, p. 114). Despite Mary's insatiable thirst for Protestant blood, the Gospel fire continued to burn and give light to England. To this day a memorial marks the spot outside Oxford where these choice servants suffered.

The changing fortunes and fiery end of God's witnesses illustrate the text that says, "Here we have no continuing city, but we seek one to come" (Hebrews 13:14). Those words in Hebrews occur in a context of encouraging believers that are suffering persecution for their faith in Christ. Latimer's words to Ridley about lighting a fire in England proved true and remind us of those that were scattered abroad preaching the Word as a result of the persecution that arose from the stoning of Stephen (Acts 11:19-21). Though His servants are treated so shamefully, Christ's Gospel triumphs gloriously. The patient endurance of God's people is nothing short of fuel poured on the Gospel fire.

Latimer and Ridley Light a Candle

Trust God Who Raises the Dead (Douglas Kelly)

When the heat comes on and when the pressure is such that we cannot handle it, we do not generally feel religious or see that the Lord Jesus is working. It might even seem as if God is doing so much for our enemies. But it is just at those times when we do not feel it or see it, that God is doing tremendous things. A power is stealing through that is far greater than all the forces of death and destruction, and that is able to revive the situation in this culture as it has in other past cultures: namely the resurrection power of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Douglas F. Kelly, New Life in the Wasteland: 2 Corinthians on the Cost and Glory of Christian Ministry (Ross-shire: Christian Focus Publications, 2003), p. 30 (emphasis mine).
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2 Corinthians 1:8-9

8 For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. 9 Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.

Trust God Who Raises the Dead (Douglas Kelly)

The Value of Pain and Suffering (Douglas Kelly)

Let us be clear that we do not pay for our sins. The blood of Jesus Christ on the cross is the propitiation for our sins - not for ours only but for the whole world. The sins of all God's people of all ages are paid for in the blood of Christ. Yet in another sense a costly stand which hurts you and your family (such as maintaining the truth in a relativistic culture fiercely intolerant of truth-claims) can have a redemptive value because the cross you are experiencing becomes a doorway to let through the Lord's resurrection power into other lives. Paul seems to be speaking of this when he says in Colossians 1:24, 'I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.' Sometimes when you are feeling the nails, that may be the only way that others can see the glory.

Douglas F. Kelly, New Life in the Wasteland: 2 Corinthians on the Cost and Glory of Christian Ministry (Ross-shire: Christian Focus Publications, 2003), p. 26 (emphasis mine.
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The Value of Pain and Suffering (Douglas Kelly)

Pray for the Land of Judson

Last Saturday the Southeast Asian country of Myanmar, also known as Burma, was devastated by a powerful cyclone that left thousands dead or missing with many more homeless. MSNBC reports, “The death toll from the cyclone that ravaged Myanmar is expected to top 10,000, a senior official said Monday, with at least 4,000 people already listed as killed and nearly 3,000 others unaccounted for.” The former capitol city Yangon and the entire Irrawaddy Delta took a direct hit from the storm. The affected region is home to some 24 million people.

The military-led Burmese government is slow to help their people and allow foreign aid into the country. With electricity out and drinking water scarce, a humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Myanmar.

Pray that the Lord would move this government to fulfill its responsibilities to its people and allow other countries to help. Pray that people affected by the storm will receive shelter, medical treatment, and help in rebuilding. Pray that profiteers will not be allowed to continue their price-gouging for things like gas and food. The military junta ruling Myanmar plans to go ahead with its referendum on a draft constitution this coming Saturday, May 10. Pray that, if the Lord wills, the vote will turn the tide for the oppressed people and allow them greater freedom. Pray that the Lord will raise up servants to go to the hurting people with the gospel of Jesus Christ and show them the God of grace and comfort. Pray for greater openness to the gospel in Judson’s former field of service.

American missionary Adoniram Judson (1788 – 1850) served over three decades in Burma preaching the gospel, translating the Bible into Burmese, and writing books to facilitate further language studies. His translation of Scripture is still in use. Judson’s desire was that he and his beloved Burmese listeners would “reach the Golden Shore.” Pray that the Lord will somehow use this calamity to continue the fulfillment of that worthy desire and to bring glory to Himself.

Pray for the Land of Judson

Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna (Feb. 23, AD 155)

Polycarp, an elderly minister and disciple of the Apostle John, was burned at the stake on this day in AD 155. The execution took place during a persecution of Christians in Smyrna in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). The church at Smyrna recorded this event and circulated the account, making Polycarp’s death the first post-New Testament Christian martyr story.

He was known as the leader of the hated Christians, so the authorities arrested him and brought him into the arena. The pagans gathered for the spectacle were screaming for blood. When offered his freedom if he would curse Christ and worship Caesar and the pagan gods Polycarp answered, “Eighty-six years I have served him, and he never did me any wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?” Thus he willingly refused release so that he might obtain a better resurrection (Hebrews 11:35).

According to tradition the fire formed a wall around him but did not burn him. The persecutors then ran him through with a spear, and the blood that came out put out the fire. This extraordinary event impressed everyone with the difference between the unbelievers and the elect.

Maybe it happened just as the witnesses recorded. But regardless of uncertain traditions surrounding such events, it is evident that this servant of Jesus Christ gave a bold testimony to his Lord, which glorified God and encouraged others at a time when courage was most needed. Christianity Today has a full article that I recommend for reading more on Polycarp and his martyrdom.

As humble followers of Christ the Apostle Paul teaches that we are all brought “into the arena” and made a spectacle unto the world (1 Corinthians 4:8-16). In living and in suffering we are a stage for displaying God’s glory. Someone might ask, “How can that be?” It does seem ironic that God can be glorified in our being physically overcome by unbelievers. Wouldn’t that be a victory for them? But Paul explains, “We have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves” (2 Corinthians 4:7). The world sees this and takes notice. As faithful followers we are “always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body” (2 Cor. 4:10). Our steadfastness is to be attributed only to the power of Christ dwelling in us.

So how can we be steadfast in our testimony for the Lord when even our very life is threatened? By remembering that “He who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus” (2 Cor. 4:14). There is a better day coming when believers receive the better resurrection. This is what Polycarp was looking forward to, and we will have hope and won’t “lose heart” if we keep in mind that “momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Cor. 4:16-18 NASB). A little suffering now—full glory forever!

Recommended reading:

The Spreading Flame by FF Bruce (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1954; Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2004 reprint)

In this three-books-in-one-binding Dr. Bruce vividly recounts the rise and progress of Christianity during the first seven centuries AD, including an account of Polycarp’s martyrdom and its aftermath.

In the Arena by Isobel Kuhn (Singapore: OMF Books, 1995 reprint)

Isobel Kuhn and her husband John were missionaries to China in the 1940s until the Communist takeover in 1949. In the Arena is the second part of her autobiography, which commences with the book By Searching. In this second book she relates her view of trials as “the biblical idea that the Christian is on display, like someone condemned to die in the arena. Isobel was convinced that the trials and difficulties of her life as a missionary were ‘arena experiences,’ which God used not to punish her but to reveal Himself.” (quoted from the back cover) I recommend all her books.

Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna (Feb. 23, AD 155)

The Mission of Sorrow

The Christmas season is usually about great joy, yet many don’t feel joyful at Christmas. Even Christians are reminded of their losses and sometimes feel lonely and depressed. According to 19^th Century author Gardiner Spring, sorrow has a mission to fulfill in the lives of God’s believing people.

Gardiner Spring was a Presbyterian pastor in New York City from 1810 until his death in 1873. Though he may not be familiar to many of us today, he was influential in his time. I’m not aware of any biography of him, so I’m collecting all the bits of information I can find on him in the hopes of writing a biographical vignette for his birthday in February. It took me a while just to find out his birthday. Spring was a leader in the nationwide revival known as the Second Great Awakening, but for some reason he is little known today. His memory deserves to be recovered from the mists of history.

Spring’s book The Mission of Sorrow: God’s Gracious Purposes in Our Afflictions was recently reprinted by Solid Ground Christian Books. I’ve been reading an online version, but I hope to obtain a hard copy soon. I’ve been greatly blessed in reading the text of this book. It covers a subject that is unknown or doubted by many professing Christians and denied or completely ignored by popular prosperity preachers: that God actually has a design in sending His people sorrow. The Mission of Sorrow is written from a biblical/theological standpoint: God and His glory are central to properly understanding and responding to the sorrows He sends. Man and his needs are not the primary focus, though Spring’s book shows from Scripture how man’s deepest needs are met through a proper response to sorrow’s ministry.

The Mission of Sorrow contains 9 brief chapters in only 96 pages. Though short, the book is substantial; no fluff here. His theological viewpoint gives the book a grand sweep in its interpretation of sorrow. To quote David Ash of Shiloh Online Library: "The Mission of Sorrow by Spring, is one of the most complete books ever written on the subject of SORROW. Each chapter builds upon the other, until the sorrowing believer is brought at last to heaven." Viewing the chapter titles will prove this point and illustrate the author’s method:

Chapter 1 - Sorrow God's Witness

Chapter 2 - Sorrow Deserved

Chapter 3 - Submission Under Sorrow

Chapter 4 - Sorrow Disturbs Idolatrous Attachments

Chapter 5 - Sorrow The Friend of Christian Graces

Chapter 6 - Sorrow Taking Lessons from the Bible

Chapter 7 - Sorrow At the Throne of Grace

Chapter 8 - Meetness for Heaven Through Sorrow

Chapter 9 - No Sorrow There

The author pulls no punches in showing from Scripture the reason for sorrow and how it is designed to help us. But he leads us to the throne of grace and beyond, all the way to Heaven. Those under affliction and truly seeking God will find a balm for their souls. I’m thankful for this reprint and happy to recommend it.

Also available from:

Amazon — $9.35 new | from $6.03 used and new

Reformation Heritage Books — $8.00

The Mission of Sorrow

Audio | Beyond Suffering by Layton Talbert

This past weekend our little church had the pleasure of hosting Layton Talbert and two of his children for a Bible Conference. We all had a wonderful time together in the Word. Layton's lectures and sermons evidenced hours of careful exegesis and meditation on this oft' misunderstood Old Testament book. My own heart was stirred, challenged, and comforted.

I'm adding links to the audio recordings of the sessions. I know that they will be a help and a blessing to you, too. Also, if you do not have a copy of his book, Beyond Suffering, I highly recommended it to you. You may also consider giving it to a friend or family member for Christmas. Tim Ashcraft has written a fine review of this book here.

Layton Talbert (Ph.D., Bob Jones University) is a professor of theology at the Bob Jones University Seminary. He has also authored Not by Chance, a study of God’s loving providence in every area of the believer’s life. Dr. Talbert lives in Greenville, South Carolina with his wife, Esther, and their five children.

BIBLE CONFERENCE 2007: Beyond Suffering | Dr. Layton Talbert

Date:	Title:	Scripture:
11/16/07 PM	Three Questions About Suffering	Job 1-2
11/17/07 PM	How Does a Spiritual Person Respond to Suffering?	Job 3
11/18/07 AM	What Do People Talk About During Suffering?	Job 4-37
11/18/07 AM	God's Response to Job	Job 38-41
11/18/07 PM	The "End" of Suffering	Job 42

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Related Posts:

• Beauty in Adversity
• Beauty in Adversity - Part 2
  

Audio | Beyond Suffering by Layton Talbert

Beauty in Adversity—Part Two

I hadn’t planned on revisiting this topic, but I had another idea on the way home from work today. When I left the workplace this afternoon, looking forward to another drive home past the trees in their fall glory, the first thing I noticed was there wasn’t as much color as there had been 24 hours earlier. Then I noticed how hard the wind was blowing. Also, we had rain last night. Many leaves, which were at their peak yesterday, are lying on the ground today.

My previous article on “Beauty in Adversity” mentioned the fact that patient, submissive suffering displays God’s glory to others. This especially seems to be the case when a faithful believer discovers that he or she has a terminal disease and accepts the Lord’s will with grace and joy. But what about when a vibrant Christian’s testimony is suddenly cut short through death or through circumstances that diminish his public usefulness? What if you don’t get your chance to “shine”? Or, you were shining and your avenues of service disappeared? Is there glory when no one can see Christ through you because they can’t see you? And that’s because something beyond your control happened. The leaf in full color is lying on the ground.

I’ve struggled with this when experiencing “setbacks” I didn’t understand. “Where’s the glory in this?!! It doesn’t make sense!” I couldn’t see how God was getting any glory out of my circumstances.

Though we know from Scripture that we shouldn’t seek to be “seen of men,” we still tend to think that if they don’t see us, God gets no glory. When we think this way, we are short-sighted. We can have our spiritual myopia treated by pulling back the curtain of space and time and gazing into the heavenlies. In Ephesians 3 the Apostle Paul reveals why God’s grace was given to him:

to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ, and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God who created all things; so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places (Eph. 3:8-10 NASB).

There are other spectators to the outworking of our faith than just the earth-bound. When serving God in the dark, when suffering for His sake in a barren land with no human in sight to appreciate it, have we ever considered the scriptural truth that others are watching? And that God is being glorified in the heavenlies because of our faith? It is “through the church” that God’s manifold wisdom is now being made known to the angels.

The church is the mirror, that reflects the whole effulgence of the Divine character. It is the grand scene, in which the perfections of Jehovah are displayed to the universe. The revelations made to the Church—the successive grand events in her history—and, above all—the manifestation of “the glory of God in the Person of Jesus Christ”—furnish even to the heavenly intelligences fresh subjects of adoring contemplation. (Charles Bridges, The Christian Ministry, p. 1)

If our desire is to obey and glorify God, does it matter whether we are in a prominent place or a desolate place? If we are yielded to our loving heavenly Father, does it matter to us if our testimony is unexpectedly stifled through perplexing circumstances? What do we do when we want to serve in a particular way, but we feel like a bird with its wings clipped? Perhaps we look at the colorful leaf on the ground and think, "What a waste!" But that leaf is exactly where God put it. And that’s when the quality of our submission is really revealed. It’s easy to submit when we agree with the conditions. But when God crosses our purposes, are we willing to remain under what He has ordained for us?

The servant is not above his Lord. He does not “talk back” to his Lord. He has no will of his own; he is fully absorbed with his Lord’s will. If his Lord says to stand in a room all by himself, the servant obeys. He loves his master and will not depart from Him. The servant learns to lean not on his own understanding, trusts that his Lord is good and wise, and cares more for his Lord’s honor than for his own desire for “fulfillment.” God’s perfections are displayed and He is glorified in the heavenlies when His people gladly follow His orders, whether waving brilliantly in the trees or lying silently on the ground.

Beauty in Adversity—Part Two

Beauty in Adversity

It’s the middle of November, and the leaves are in full color in upstate South Carolina. The colors aren’t quite as brilliant as last year’s, but I still have a beautiful drive home from work to enjoy for a week or two. I once read a Bible tract called “Beauty in Adversity,” which compared the Christian’s sufferings of adversity to what happens to the trees every year. The color means that the leaves are dying. And in their death they dazzle the eye with breathtaking beauty. When Christians suffer in a way that reflects Christ, they exhibit His attractiveness to other Christians and to an unbelieving world.

I’ve been thinking about this theme lately for several reasons. On Saturday November 3, many of the men in our church attended a prayer-breakfast that concluded our latest Bible study. For the past three months we’ve been studying the book of Job, using Layton Talbert’s new book, Beyond Suffering: Discovering the Message of Job, as a guide. After the regular meeting about 20 men stayed for nearly two more hours discussing Job and Dr. Talbert’s book, with the author in attendance. We were able to ask Brother Talbert questions concerning specific matters in Job and specific statements in his book. Meditating on this section of Scripture has frequently been a blessing to me, and Layton really brought out the meaning of Job in his book and in his comments at our meeting. One paragraph in his book describes the kind of suffering that Job faced and what his suffering means to us:

Affliction is suffering that is not only underserved but not even understood…. This kind of suffering comes only through the decision or permission of God (hence it is “permitted” by God). He may or may not originate this kind of suffering; but because He is sovereign, He alone claims ultimate responsibility for it (hence it is “sent” by God). It may come in the form of “natural” circumstances or through the actions (even the sinful actions) of people. It may affect us directly, or indirectly in the form of “collateral damage.” How does one interpret and respond to that kind of suffering? That is the issue at the eye of the storm swirling around Job (Beyond Suffering, p. 15).

Responding submissively to God, especially in the midst of suffering that we can’t explain, causes us to give off the fragrance of the One who said, “Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me) to do thy will, O God (Hebrews 10:7). Patiently enduring adversity demonstrates that, like our Lord, we too have committed our spirit into the hands of our Father (Luke 23:46). This type of submission comes only from God and proves to believers and to many unbelievers the reality, the nearness, and the grace of God. Many former opposers and persecutors have been drawn to the Savior through the dying testimonies of the saints, whether suffering cruel martyrdom or succumbing to “natural causes.”

This leads me to another reason I’ve been meditating on this theme lately. Last week marked the first anniversary of the death of a young local woman. You may not be familiar with the name Hannah Sobeski, but she became something of a “celebrity” in our area. Hannah was a 17 year-old rising senior at Dorman High School in nearby Spartanburg when she discovered that she had sarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer. She spent the summer in Texas taking treatments and returned home in time to start her senior year. This was reported widely in the local news because she accepted God’s will for her life with a meek and quiet spirit, expressing her faith in Jesus Christ. In some ways she was no different from any other teen, looking forward to graduation, college, marriage and family someday. In other ways she was head and shoulders above the crowd, and the adversity God entrusted her with provided a platform to display His grace. And people noticed.

On a chilly Friday night in October 2006 Hannah was crowned Homecoming Queen. It was an emotional night for Dorman. You wouldn’t know it to look at the pictures in the paper but she barely had the strength to make it across the field with her dad. Also in attendance was her doctor, who had some difficult news to tell her the next day. Her tumor had doubled in size and there was nothing that could be done. She had only a few weeks to live.

Hannah died about four weeks later on November 9. Her family had maintained a daily journal on the Web, chronicling her progress in the treatments, her deteriorating condition, and her ever-renewing faith. On Hannah’s last day they noted in their morning entry her quickly weakening condition. As news of her imminent departure spread across the school and community, friends started arriving to see her one last time. As long as she was able she greeted them and encouraged them to keep believing in Christ. About fifty friends and family were in the house with her, and many more were filling the yard, praying and singing praise songs. At the news of her death there were tears of grief but also tears of hope and joy. They knew that all was now well with their girl.

Hannah’s mother Debbie and aunt Hope Houchins founded Hannah’s Hope Ministries to reach people in life crises with the Gospel. They maintain a blog on their site which they update practically every day, frequently with devotional thoughts from their Bible reading. Last week on November 8 Debbie Sobeski posted a remembrance of Thursday – One Year Later. It is in the form of a prayer, as are many of her posts. In this remembrance she said, “The details of this day I don’t ever want to forget. I experienced You Lord, You showed us Your glory. Your presence was so very real it penetrated every part of our home. Each day I continue to ask You to do the same – penetrate my home with the presence of the Living God.” She confesses her pain, but also her faith: “You know, Lord, I would never want to go through this again but Lord, You know I wouldn’t trade anything for the reality of Your presence in my life as I have experienced it over the last year and a half.”

I can make the same confession of feeling overwhelmed by God’s presence as I observed the Lord taking a friend of mine to Himself through the medium of cancer three years ago. As long as he was physically able, he gave glory to God and urged us to keep trusting Him. Though it was heart-rending it was beautiful because of God’s enabling weak flesh to be strong in faith. That gives me hope that my faith is real and that it will not fail, but prevail, because its author is God.

When we suffer patiently, entrusting ourselves to the Lord, we are entering into the “fellowship of His sufferings” (Philippians 3:10) and displaying the beauty of His grace to others. The natural tendency in adversity is to question God and perhaps even to become bitter. How should we interpret our sufferings and respond to them? By reminding ourselves of what Layton Talbert reminded us at our book discussion: “Whatever adversity God puts on us, He did it to Himself first when He judged our sins in His own Son on the Cross.”

Some resources to encourage us to trust God and rejoice in our trials:

Talbert, Layton. Beyond Suffering: Discovering the Message of Job. (Greenville, SC: Bob Jones University Press, 2007), 378 pp. A thorough and practical exposition of Job. [You can also purchase an autographed copy from the Mount Calvary Bookstore.]

Houchins, Hope. Hannah’s Hope: A Journey of Faith. (Spartanburg, SC: Hannah’s Hope Ministries, 2007), 269 pp. A day-by-day journal of Hannah’s six-month battle with sarcoma.

Cook, Faith. Singing in the Fire (Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1995), 193 pp.

A wonderful book containing biographical vignettes of some not so well known Christians who glorified God in their dying testimonies.

Beauty in Adversity