Suffering Is Never for Nothing

And I’ve come to see that it’s through the deepest suffering that God has taught me the deepest lessons. And if we’ll trust Him for it, we can come through to the unshakable assurance that He’s in charge. He has a loving purpose. And He can transform something terrible into something wonderful. Suffering is never for nothing.

— Elizabeth Elliot

Title: Suffering Is Never for Nothing

Author: Elizabeth Elliot

Brief Summary: This book is an adaptation from teachings Elizabeth Elliot gave at a conference some years back. It was a 6 CD piece that was seemingly buried and forgotten, until a publisher heard them, was greatly impacted, and was compelled to publish these words of wisdom. 

In this short book (that was once several teachings), Elizabeth Elliot tells a little of her own story, but mostly, she challenges the listener (or reader) to trust in God no matter what’s to come. More than that, she encourages the reader to see suffering as a beautiful means to knowing and trusting God more fully. While Elizabeth Elliot provides a few practical suggestions on living well amidst difficulty, the real thrust of the book centers on the trustworthiness of God in the face of hardship. 

What I liked about it: It’s hard not to like anything from Elizabeth Elliot. She speaks with obvious experience and she has a way about her that is both gracious and direct. I find she  awakens  my heart and my will to purposefully trust God. 

This was a short listen (only about 3 hours on audible), and I am sure I’ll revisit it more than once. It’s a little like inviting someone over who’s “been there and done that” for coffee — she casually shares her wisdom and reminds you that no matter what’s to come, you will be okay, because you have God. And that is something we all need every once in a while. And for that reason, I highly recommend you get this book in your library (and read it more than once)!