Reviews

Companions in Suffering: Comfort for Times of Loss and Loneliness by Wendy Alsup, Trillia J. Newbell

megan_mac_'s review against another edition

emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad

3.75

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Cancer

Moderate: Death

Minor: Infertility

persistent_reader's review against another edition

5.0

"Companions in Suffering" is one of the best books on suffering that I have read. It is firmly grounded in the scriptures and the message of the gospel. It is also written from the author's first-hand experience of the hard road of suffering. She does not give easy answers or platitudes. She does not shame the reader for the sorrow and lament they may feel. Rather she clearly points to Jesus as THE companion who never leaves us nor forsakes us.

I highly recommend "Companions in Suffering" for those who are walking this hard road. It is equally valuable for those who want to learn to be a helpful companion to those who are suffering. I am going to recommend this book for the ladies' study that I facilitate.

kara4's review against another edition

5.0

I devoured this book. I have appreciated and enjoyed Wendy’s thoughts and teachings in the past, and when I saw she was coming out with a new book, and this was the topic, I purchased it as soon as I could. Wendy writes in a way that is easy to understand, and she does so again here. Her combination of both Scripture and lived experience keep this book applicable to all who are suffering. The way Wendy writes here mirrors the thoughts I’ve personally had, and the fears have been similar. This book was a big encouragement to me, and it has felt like a companion over the days I have read it. I will be reading it again, and will share it with others who are suffering. Biblical encouragement through suffering is the only thing that can touch the hurt and pain, and continually turning to Christ who has walked this road before me is the only piece that truly helps. Thank you Wendy for sharing these pieces of you and your journey, and for reminding me and encouraging me in my own days of suffering. This book is a blessing.

jenn_whitmer's review against another edition

5.0

This book is one of the best on real life suffering. Alsup walks the reader through her pain in tender and hopeful prose. Navigating how scripture points us to lean into God and encourages lament, Alsup has written a book for anyone walking through pain or anyone who is close to those who are suffering. Beautiful words for real life.

nobookendinsight's review against another edition

4.0

This book is overflowing with scripture, life examples, and questions to ponder on a topic that is rarely discussed in Christian circles today. Suffering comes to all of us, in one form or another, at one time or another. Being a Christian does not exempt us from the struggles of life, and Wendy Alsup has given us a heartfelt resource to reach for when we find ourselves in a tough place or a pit of despair. I appreciate her honesty and empathy, which is evident throughout the entire book.

danielle_w's review

hopeful informative reflective medium-paced

5.0