Brief overview of theodicy and how faith keeps Christians going in dark times. Used in Bible study. ( )

video and 10 books

Where is God when tragedy and suffering strike? Bestselling author Hamilton brings fresh insight to the age-old question of how to understand the will of God.

NCLA Review -The question of theodicy, or “If God is good and all-powerful, then why does evil exist?” is one of the thorniest that Christianity faces. The author is a senior pastor at a large church and he has had to face this question many times. He offers some thoughts in this book. The four chapters are “Why do the innocent suffer?”, “Why do my prayers go unanswered?”, “Why can’t I see God’s will for my life?” and “Why God’s love prevails.” He basically says that God does not cause evil and suffering, but when they happen, He is with us and sustains us. One of the author’s favorite quotes is from Frederick Buechner: “Resurrection means that the worst thing is never the last thing.” This book won’t end the debate or answer all the questions, but it is very helpful. Rating: 4 —JC