When All Hell Breaks Loose: You May Be Doing Something Right : Surprising Insights from the Life of Job

by Steven J. Lawson

Just as the tallest tree in the forest is most likely to be struck by lightning, so a righteous person, standing tall in his or her faith, may be the most likely candidate to draw the fire. Such was the case with Job. In this age of self-absorbed Christianity and glorification of the victim mentality, Job's message of perservance through suffering is sorely needed.

255 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1993

About the author

Dr. Steven J. Lawson is the Senior Pastor of Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama, having served as a pastor in Arkansas and Alabama for the past twenty-nine years. He is a graduate of Texas Tech University (B.B.A.), Dallas Theological Seminary (Th.M.), and Reformed Theological Seminary (D. Min.)

Reviews

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

"When All Hell Breaks Loose You May Be Doing Something Right" is the best Christian non-fiction book I have ever read. It is also one of the best books I have ever read in my lifetime. I treasure the experience because it flowed and taught me so much in a manner that was not over-bearing or heavy-handed.

The subject matter of a time of suffering also being a time of growth and increased faith is fascinating and vital to all Christians. We are presented the story of Job in a practical matter that affords the reader an opportunity to know the story behind the biblical book. We are given fresh eyes about the character of Job before, during and after the historical suffering he went through. One sees and feels Job's struggles and social interaction with those around him. I, for one had never appreciated the depth of the failings, misconceptions and loss of clarity that afflicted Job. Through his experience, the misguided advice of his so-called friends, the words of young Elihu and God's response, I was afforded a unique journey of self-discovery through the story of Job. I was able to experience Job's experience by being able to relate my own times of suffering.

Steven J. Lawson, the author is also a gifted teacher, humorist and narrator of life. He begins his book by laying out the truth about the true nature of this world - a constant battle between God and Satan. This struggle is practically experience by man through suffering. He drives home the point that our response to suffering is what can bring us closer to God. The author drives home the truth that the struggles of man as he contends with periods of trouble and suffering is a time of spiritual growth. One experiences the lessons of evaluation of one's soul, the acknowledgement of God's unfailing nature of blessing one, repentance and humility. Mr Lawson takes us on a personalized journey of a deepening relationship with God. The author's strategic use of appropriate humor, narratives and pointed questions make this book feel like a personal journey of discovery and revelation. Mr. Steven J. Lawson was inspired by the Holy Spirit and given us a gem of an experience.

This book has left its mark on me, causing me to rethink my own responses to times of suffering, my attitude toward God during those times, and guidance about spiritual growth. I know that I will refer to it often. I also have since reread The Book of Job with a deeper understanding. This is a practical and vital book for all humans. May you be blessed as you read this wonderful book.

[Carol Arnold · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a very good commentary on the book of Job. I now have a much better understanding of how it all fits together. Mr. Lawson's book is very readable and understandable. He pretty much goes through Job verse by verse and explains what is going on in an easy-to-read style. There were a very few instances where I couldn't quite understand how he came up with his interpretation, but mostly he seemed spot-on and cleared up some things that have always confused me. One instance is the sudden appearance of Elihu. Where did he come from? Why do we always refer to Job's three friends. What about this 4th one? And when God speaks to Job in the final chapters, He condemns the three friends but there is no mention of the 4th one. Why not? Well, you will know if you read this book!

[Brenda Seefeldt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've re-read this book numerous times. It is a good commentary on the book of Job.