In Finding Purpose Beyond Our Pain, Drs. Paul Meier and David Henderson attempt to add to the conversation regarding God’s hand in the refining work of pain in our lives. Pain, they insist, is not always a bad thing, and in fact, maybe be the warning sign that motivates us to make much needed emotional and spiritual changes in our lives. While the work has the advantage of being an easy read and having concise chapters, the book never seems to get beyond a surface level discussion of the difficulties that pain causes in our individual experiences. While using both experiences from their medical practices and the Bible, Drs. Meier and Henderson play it safe and secure with ideas that do not delve into uncharted waters but rather plot a course familiar to Christian counselors, ministers and spiritual leaders.
Readers who are looking for stretching their thinking, making theological shifts or new ways to confront the problem of suffering will need to look elsewhere while those looking for a practical book to help a loved one, family member or church member dealing with emotional pain may have found a great match.
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