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Making Sense of a Suffering World: The Bible and a Life Story Reveal Answers to Why God Allows Suffering
The goal of this book is to help you understand and make the most out of your times of hurt and pain. God uses suffering as a powerful tool to develop character, compassion, humility, faith, perseverance, and even prepare you for how you may serve God in heaven. It is my prayer that you will be encouraged, enlightened, and educated, so you can make sense out of "why God allows suffering" Get ready to discover the vast scriptural details in the lives of the biblical characters, the truths God revealed to them in the Bible that deal with suffering and what they were inspired to say about their trials and tribulations. Along with that you'll see the way suffering has influenced my perspective and how my faith in God and His Word has prepared me to live a blessed and productive life. Ken Dignan is an ordained minister involved in vocational ministry since 1976. He and his wife, Joni, have 4 Andrew (wife Jodi), Patrick (wife Jennifer), the late Ryan, and Britt Stephen, and two granddaughters. He is a polio survivor, author, and founder of 'Til Healing Comes Ministries.
- GenresReligion
320 pages, Paperback
First published June 28, 2013
3 people are currently reading
342 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
November 18, 2013
I was a goodreads first reads winner of the book "Making Sense of a Suffering World" by Ken Dignan.
Mr. Dignan is an ordained minister who has written many books relating to his religious beliefs.
this book talks about the suffering humans endure during their time on earth. He spends part of the book talking of his own suffering from the Polio he had when he was a toddler and the after effects from the polio through out his life.
the author uses bible passages that focus on the obstacles and suffering humans will have. explaining God's plans and why we suffer. I liked some of the passages he used from the Bible. Many I turn to when I am going through difficult times. I especially liked how some of this book talks about heaven and what it could be like. when life on Earth can be awful hard and hurtful at times this is something that is of comfort to read. I am not a deeply religious person, but still found this a good read.my point is you do not have to be deeply religious to get something from this book.
Mr. Dignan is an ordained minister who has written many books relating to his religious beliefs.
this book talks about the suffering humans endure during their time on earth. He spends part of the book talking of his own suffering from the Polio he had when he was a toddler and the after effects from the polio through out his life.
the author uses bible passages that focus on the obstacles and suffering humans will have. explaining God's plans and why we suffer. I liked some of the passages he used from the Bible. Many I turn to when I am going through difficult times. I especially liked how some of this book talks about heaven and what it could be like. when life on Earth can be awful hard and hurtful at times this is something that is of comfort to read. I am not a deeply religious person, but still found this a good read.my point is you do not have to be deeply religious to get something from this book.
December 4, 2013
*** I won this book on a Goodreads Giveaway ***
Awe! What a book! I have not won a giveaway in such a long time I thought it meant I'd win this one. It came to me at a time where I have been and still am going through a lot of struggles.
Ken Dignan tells his story of suffering while sharing his thoughts on why God allows it and interjects bible passages and their explanations. Everything from original sin, Gods omnipotence/questioning predestination, free-will, character-building and to heaven is discussed.
Though his story is blended with Bible passages along with explanations, what makes it great is the way he gives the reader the language origins for some passages explaining what they really mean in plain English, the philosophy/truth behind the bible quotes and just grounded sense.
I think when a person is suffering and they become angry with God that this is perhaps one of the best books to read because Dignan lays it all out the way God tells it using the Bible as backing. And, God never promised life would be fantasy land, and that was his plan even before Adam & Eve but Dignan explains how all our suffering isn't without reward, one way or another even if we don't understand it.
This book is solid. It's not overbearing in its religiosity, it's very matter-of-fact where the subject needed it to be, very well researched and the authors own personal story is inspirational enough without the added benefit of his edifying the reader of God's total, unconditional love for us.
Awe! What a book! I have not won a giveaway in such a long time I thought it meant I'd win this one. It came to me at a time where I have been and still am going through a lot of struggles.
Ken Dignan tells his story of suffering while sharing his thoughts on why God allows it and interjects bible passages and their explanations. Everything from original sin, Gods omnipotence/questioning predestination, free-will, character-building and to heaven is discussed.
Though his story is blended with Bible passages along with explanations, what makes it great is the way he gives the reader the language origins for some passages explaining what they really mean in plain English, the philosophy/truth behind the bible quotes and just grounded sense.
I think when a person is suffering and they become angry with God that this is perhaps one of the best books to read because Dignan lays it all out the way God tells it using the Bible as backing. And, God never promised life would be fantasy land, and that was his plan even before Adam & Eve but Dignan explains how all our suffering isn't without reward, one way or another even if we don't understand it.
This book is solid. It's not overbearing in its religiosity, it's very matter-of-fact where the subject needed it to be, very well researched and the authors own personal story is inspirational enough without the added benefit of his edifying the reader of God's total, unconditional love for us.
November 10, 2013
I would have given this a 5 star, but it lost 1/2 star because I found the fracturing of the Ken's story to be distracting with all of the verses. I am not explaining this well, but I was engrossed in his story and wanted more of that displayed in the pages of verses.
That being said, this is an easy to understand depiction of one man's suffering and his search for meaning from our Lord. He chronicles his search for answers. While this is written for a layman's understanding, it is not a piece of fluff.
It will take several readings to fully exact all of the information given and it's possible impact upon my life.
Excellent read for anyone suffering emotional, spiritual, or physical pain and suffering. Even better read for the suffering person's support network as it gives hope and enlightenment upon this awful but common subject.
That being said, this is an easy to understand depiction of one man's suffering and his search for meaning from our Lord. He chronicles his search for answers. While this is written for a layman's understanding, it is not a piece of fluff.
It will take several readings to fully exact all of the information given and it's possible impact upon my life.
Excellent read for anyone suffering emotional, spiritual, or physical pain and suffering. Even better read for the suffering person's support network as it gives hope and enlightenment upon this awful but common subject.
Want to read
June 16, 2014With everything that happens these days, who dosen't need a copy of this book?
Very uplifting, inspirational, and extremely well written.
Ken Dignan has outdone himself.
Very uplifting, inspirational, and extremely well written.
Ken Dignan has outdone himself.
October 6, 2015
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway last year. I tried to read it then, but I was not able to connect with the message. I picked it up again recently and read the entire book. It's easy to read and understand, and the story of the author's life is very interesting. His positive attitude in the face of all that he has endured is inspirational.
As a Christian, I could appreciate what the author has to say about suffering teaching us lessons. I have learned many things and seen much growth from my own suffering. However, I could not agree with what he claims about God sending us this suffering. Why would God want to take our child - why would He want to devastate a person like that? Why would God want us to be injured to the brink of death, and be in such physical pain? Why would God cause someone to be Schizophrenic? Why would God make someone suffer such emotional pain that they resort to suicide? This does not make sense to me, and this book does not justify why someone would believe that a good and loving God would CAUSE significant suffering to His children.
Things happen, and God helps us through it. THAT part I sincerely believe. We can certainly rely on Him when we don't think we can take one more minute of suffering. He is always there for us, we just have to call out to Him. And many times I have found wonderful gifts in my suffering - things that never would have happened had life gone perfectly smoothly. And I know that God has provided me with those amazing gifts, and I truly appreciate them.
The author uses a LOT of scripture to try to support his point of view, but I do not feel like he was successful with that. Yes, the Bible says that we will suffer in this world, that does not translate directly to say that God is the one causing all of this suffering. I wish the author had spent more time talking about his own story and how his suffering has connected him to God. The parts of the book where he does that are the very best parts.
I am glad that the author has been able to use the Bible to bring himself peace, direction, understanding, and purpose... to help him through his own suffering, and his family's. And I'm sure this book will help some people. However, my philosophy is different. I am not claiming that one of us is right and one is wrong - we just have differing perspectives. I believe that Satan causes suffering and God helps us through it.
The author's philosophy has led him down a certain path in his life, and he is using the opportunity to spread the word of God... that is a very good thing, and I wish him well!
As a Christian, I could appreciate what the author has to say about suffering teaching us lessons. I have learned many things and seen much growth from my own suffering. However, I could not agree with what he claims about God sending us this suffering. Why would God want to take our child - why would He want to devastate a person like that? Why would God want us to be injured to the brink of death, and be in such physical pain? Why would God cause someone to be Schizophrenic? Why would God make someone suffer such emotional pain that they resort to suicide? This does not make sense to me, and this book does not justify why someone would believe that a good and loving God would CAUSE significant suffering to His children.
Things happen, and God helps us through it. THAT part I sincerely believe. We can certainly rely on Him when we don't think we can take one more minute of suffering. He is always there for us, we just have to call out to Him. And many times I have found wonderful gifts in my suffering - things that never would have happened had life gone perfectly smoothly. And I know that God has provided me with those amazing gifts, and I truly appreciate them.
The author uses a LOT of scripture to try to support his point of view, but I do not feel like he was successful with that. Yes, the Bible says that we will suffer in this world, that does not translate directly to say that God is the one causing all of this suffering. I wish the author had spent more time talking about his own story and how his suffering has connected him to God. The parts of the book where he does that are the very best parts.
I am glad that the author has been able to use the Bible to bring himself peace, direction, understanding, and purpose... to help him through his own suffering, and his family's. And I'm sure this book will help some people. However, my philosophy is different. I am not claiming that one of us is right and one is wrong - we just have differing perspectives. I believe that Satan causes suffering and God helps us through it.
The author's philosophy has led him down a certain path in his life, and he is using the opportunity to spread the word of God... that is a very good thing, and I wish him well!
September 2, 2014
Do you have an appreciation for those that suffer? Many of us if not all of us, suffer at one time or another. By our own hand or others or even by the hand of God, we will experience suffering. We forget it is God that sent Christ to suffer on the cross for us. It is by suffering we know God and the glory of God.
Ken Dignan’s account of his own suffering is not an account that he has suffered more than you or me, however, he does have a great testimony. One that is difficult because it is one of faith and one that glory is on the other side of heaven. We can learn from his story of faith, his weakness and his strength in the Lord. With a disability such as his, he is dependant on others and on the Lord to remember that God has not forgotten him, but has a purpose in the suffering. That his life is not wasted life.
One of the many insights I appreciated was that in trials and difficulties our sense of security is threatened. With the firm spiritual principles found in the bible, we can base our life built on truth and be able to face problems head-on. We can have security on the character of God instead of our own strength. You begin to look at happiness not at your circumstances and shout out “Look at me, everything is good, I love my life” but you seek the joy in the truth of who God is and his promises and this comes with a personal relationship with Christ. Happiness is circumstantial; joy is foundational. Happiness has to do with what I feel; joy is who I am. Happiness is cheap; joy is priceless. The joy is longing for God. (page 115). Many times we seek the mountain top experiences with God, but it is in the valley that we gain the character qualities God desires for our life. It is in the valley where the fruit is planted and harvested. It cannot grow on the mountain, it only grows in the valley. Happiness must not be based on receiving a miracle healing or having a easier life. Anyone can be happy when they receive blessings and good things. What really makes a difference is depending on the joy of the Lord regardless of how tough your circumstances may be. (page 123).
The above is only a small part of what you will taste. Taste and see that the Lord is good. Even in our suffering, it is only then we can know the true goodness of the Lord. This grace with truth account will give you a thirst and hunger for the Lord.
Thank you Goodreads for my free copy and the opportunity to post an honest review
Ken Dignan’s account of his own suffering is not an account that he has suffered more than you or me, however, he does have a great testimony. One that is difficult because it is one of faith and one that glory is on the other side of heaven. We can learn from his story of faith, his weakness and his strength in the Lord. With a disability such as his, he is dependant on others and on the Lord to remember that God has not forgotten him, but has a purpose in the suffering. That his life is not wasted life.
One of the many insights I appreciated was that in trials and difficulties our sense of security is threatened. With the firm spiritual principles found in the bible, we can base our life built on truth and be able to face problems head-on. We can have security on the character of God instead of our own strength. You begin to look at happiness not at your circumstances and shout out “Look at me, everything is good, I love my life” but you seek the joy in the truth of who God is and his promises and this comes with a personal relationship with Christ. Happiness is circumstantial; joy is foundational. Happiness has to do with what I feel; joy is who I am. Happiness is cheap; joy is priceless. The joy is longing for God. (page 115). Many times we seek the mountain top experiences with God, but it is in the valley that we gain the character qualities God desires for our life. It is in the valley where the fruit is planted and harvested. It cannot grow on the mountain, it only grows in the valley. Happiness must not be based on receiving a miracle healing or having a easier life. Anyone can be happy when they receive blessings and good things. What really makes a difference is depending on the joy of the Lord regardless of how tough your circumstances may be. (page 123).
The above is only a small part of what you will taste. Taste and see that the Lord is good. Even in our suffering, it is only then we can know the true goodness of the Lord. This grace with truth account will give you a thirst and hunger for the Lord.
Thank you Goodreads for my free copy and the opportunity to post an honest review
June 4, 2015
“His love for Christ, respect for God's Word, and passion to share biblical encouragement is truly admirable!"– Joni Eareckson Tada, Joni and Friends -International Disability Center.
“With his new book, I believe that once again God is going to use Ken's story and his powerful perspective to reach many hurting people who are struggling to make sense of it all." – Matthew West, National Recording Artist, Singer/Songwriter.
"Ken's story is an amazing journey of triumph through tragedy… It's much better to learn through our suffering. Ken will help you do just that." —Tim Harlow, senior pastor, Parkview Christian Church, Orland Park, Illinois; Top 100 largest and fastest growing churches in America.
“With his new book, I believe that once again God is going to use Ken's story and his powerful perspective to reach many hurting people who are struggling to make sense of it all." – Matthew West, National Recording Artist, Singer/Songwriter.
"Ken's story is an amazing journey of triumph through tragedy… It's much better to learn through our suffering. Ken will help you do just that." —Tim Harlow, senior pastor, Parkview Christian Church, Orland Park, Illinois; Top 100 largest and fastest growing churches in America.
July 7, 2015
Goodreads win. Will read and review once received.
This was a very good read. The book was very inspirational read. Also, the book was was well written. I found myself to get easily engrossed in this book. I will admit some parts were annoying, but it never took anything away from the book. I can see many people who would relate and enjoy this book.
This was a very good read. The book was very inspirational read. Also, the book was was well written. I found myself to get easily engrossed in this book. I will admit some parts were annoying, but it never took anything away from the book. I can see many people who would relate and enjoy this book.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews