Larry Crabb offers perspective on how to dig into difficult moments by tracing the story of Naomi in the book of Ruth.

I don't agree with everything Crabb says, but I do like the way he offers no excuses or easy answers for when bad things happen. While I had learned some of this material in the "knocks of life", I imagine this would be a valuable resource for those going through any difficult transition for the first time. I really love his emphasis on "feeling" that God is gone doesn't mean that he IS gone. I love how he pointed out that our main goal is usually "to feel better/good" and how this can become idolatry. This has given me a good bit to think about. We want the triumphant story, but that's not always how life goes.

I did get a little annoyed at his "Trust me, wait and see" writing style about what is supposed to motivate us/fill us with joy (spoiler - serving God). I wish he had talked about this more at length because while I definitely agree that God can bring us to this place, I'm wondering what this looks like re: our human desires. Still, this book is making me ask some good questions - I'm learning to ask, "Do I want to let God do what he's going to do or do I want to 'get better'?" I also think this book addresses the significant flaws in the "health and wealth" gospel, ( especially Christian MLMs) and I'm sure a blog post will bubble up about this topic eventually.

I haven't looked very closely at the workbook in the back, but I do want to work through the material. I'll report back once I've worked through it (if I remember - ha).

Pairings: The Problem of Pain,