Why Do I Suffer?: Suffering & the Sovereignty of God

While it might appear odd at first glance that a scholar of the Old Testament and Semitics would be asked to write a book on suffering, a more thoughtful considerations shows the wisdom of such a choice.Currid combines a quality selection of creeds, confessions, hymns, anecdotes to accentuate his conscise, reformed treatment of the problem of suffering and the Biblical texts that speak to it.The chapter divisions are systematically arranged and do justice to conservative and consistent Reformed dogmatics. God is Sovereign, His character is just, and His Eternal Covenant organizes our understanding of His relationship to humanity.Currid also does a good job with the varieties of suffering and its meaning for the believer and unbeliever (an important distinction missing from most traditional and philosophical treatments of the problem of suffering and evil).The only regret I have is that Currid's brief expositions of Ecclesiastes left me wanting more from him on that book.While this book does not provide anything profound that cannot be found elsewhere, it combines excellent doctrines into one, concise, and easy-to-read treatment that is of benefit to pastors, elders, and lay readers alike.

This little book packs a punch. It briefly but thoroughly explains how our loving and sovereign God works suffering into His plans for the good of His people and the world. Along the way it debunks some popular teachings like: God has no control over catastrophe, He didn't know that evil will happen, and God wants you to be health and wealthy. The whole study is grounded deeply in the Bible, but also has practical application and plenty of historical precedence. Well worth your time and effort to read this excellent and though provoking little book.

Chris does a good job answering the question of the title from many different angles. He essentially addresses the question different ways (e.g. We suffer to be conformed to the image of Jesus) and defends it from the Bible.

Very easy to read and brings great biblical comfort to the suffering of this life.

This is a GREAT book with loads of insight! Very thought provoking. Everyone needs to read this book by John Currid.

Easy read and insightful.

This work on the theme of suffering is one of the best on the subject. It tackles the issue of the Sovereignty of God and suffering in a very thoughtful and biblical manner. HIGHLY recommend it!!

A great book about suffering. Addresses some tough topics from a biblical perspective.