Faith Under Fire: How the Bible Speaks to Us in Times of Suffering

Rating:
Summary: The most helpful book on suffering I've ever read
Review: I first read "Faith Under Fire" in my seminary Old Testament class in 1983. I have used it many times since in my practice of Christian ministry. Simundson's analysis of the biblical "laments" (complaints and pleas for help, usually found in the Psalms), and other texts pertaining to suffering (Job and Ecclesiastes, among others) is the most helpful treatment of these passages I've found anywhere. He puts forth the view that these passages are extremely helpful in giving the faithful person permission to express negative emotions, which is a necessary first step in the process of healing. So often, in our churches and our culture, expressions of pain are suppressed and discouraged by well-meaning friends and clergy. Instead, suffering people should be encouraged to fully grieve their losses and vent their anger, and these scriptures can help them to do that. Rather than edit these negative passages out of our worship liturgies, the church should include them as a witness to the fact that God accepts the complaints of his people, and is with us in our suffering. I enthusiastically recommend this book to all who are struggling with life's sorrows, and those who minister to them.