Reformers Recommends: Books on Grief & Suffering

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There are many good resources that can assist with understanding and working through grief and suffering, and this list is by no means exhaustive. But below are some helpful books we have chosen that contain good, sound, biblical advice from those who faithfully teach God’s Word, but also those who have experienced hardship themselves. These are not quick-fix books or the solutions to fix how you feel. They are, however, books that fix your gaze on the One who will never leave or forsake His people - the one who is always good, even when our situation is not.

Suffering: Gospel Hope When Life Doesn't Make Sense

by Paul David Tripp

Following a traumatic series of events resulting from his own physical ill-health, Paul Tripp uses his personal story with a gospel focus to approach the topic of suffering. Addressing the traps we find ourselves in as well as the comfort found in God’s grace, presence, sovereignty, purpose, and his people, Suffering is a book that is easily readable and appropriate for both the carer and the sufferer.

Grieving: Your Path Back to Peace

by James R. White

This is a small book abounding in gentleness, realism and reminder that Christians grieve with an eternal hope. James White discusses the patterns of the grieving process and gives insight to better understand the feelings that are most often experienced. With compassion and biblical insight, this book is good for those grieving and those ministering to others, and has a very helpful section in the final chapter outlining and reviewing the grieving process that is covered throughout the book.

A Christian's Pocket Guide to Suffering: How God Shapes Us through Pain and Tragedy

by Brian H. Cosby

This is a book that is very direct in its presentation of the biblical view of suffering, seeking not to give “empty cliches” but rather solid foundations from scripture. It is certainly a book rich in truth that is good for both the carer and sufferer alike, though my recommendation would be to read it before giving it to somebody who is currently suffering.

Kiss the Wave: Embracing God in Your Trials

by Dave Furman

The title of this book comes from the words of Charles Spurgeon: “I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the rock of ages”. Grief, suffering, pain and depression are words that are familiar to Dave Furman, pastor of Redeemer Church of Dubai. This book focuses on biblical truths of the God who loves and is not unaware and distant, but rather is both near and faithful. Be encouraged to fix your gaze, hope and dependance on the one whose Son suffered and now reigns at His right hand in heaven.

At A Time Like This: Some Answers for Loss and Grief

by Simon Manchester

At only 18 pages long, this booklet by Simon Manchester is a helpful resource for directing people to Christ in their suffering, while providing answers to some big questions. This is a good booklet for handing out and having readily available at your church, with a preparedness to walk beside the sufferer and keep their eyes fixed upon the Lord Jesus.

Inheritance of Tears: Trusting the Lord of Life When Death Visits the Womb

by Jessalyn Hutto

I cannot fully understand the grief associated with a woman losing her unborn child. But Jessalyn Hutto, the writer of this book, certainly can. Sharing her story of grief experienced from miscarriage, Jessalyn drives readers to the gospel with faithfulness and gentleness. In considering the words from 1 Peter 1:3-4, Jessalyn writes: “the key is not to escape the grief that miscarriage brings, but to drive our souls into the shelter of Jesus’ gospel during that sorrow”. Walk with your saviour and king, Jesus, through your suffering and grief, and if you need a guide, consider this book as a help.

If you are grieving or suffering, we would recommend you talk to your pastor or a faithful and trusted friend. These books are helpful aids, but we believe that it is not good to be alone (Gen 2:18), and two people are better than one (Ecc 4:9-10).