Strength Through Adversity

by Brent L. Top

Why do such bad things happen to me? This seems so unfair! Did I do something to deserve this? Am I being punished for something? Adversity is a universal experience; no one escapes mortality without coming face-to-face with experiences that can push even the strongest of us to the very edge of what we think we can endure. Sometimes these experiences result from natural law. Other times they are a result of the exercise of agency—our own or another’s. And occasionally adversity is an authentic act of a loving Heavenly Father whose goal is not to punish but to build and strengthen us beyond what we ourselves can ever imagine. When we are harrowed by harsh adversity, we want to know how we can find peace and comfort for our breaking hearts and souls in the midst of such intense suffering. In this inspirational work based on scripture and the experiences of modern-day prophets, many of whom have dealt with extreme adversity themselves, BYU Dean of Religious Education Brent L. Top shares insights, principles, and approaches that deliver help, strength, and comfort—leading you at last to the Lord, in whom all peace is ultimately found.

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction, Lds

272 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2015

Reviews

[Tiffany Dominguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brent Top was one of my instructors when I studied abroad in Israel. I remember his classes on this particular subject. When I saw this book I instantly downloaded it. Here are some of my notes:

-We are punished as much by our sins as for them
-Blaming things on others stifles our spiritual growth
-The idea of one facing adversity instead of letting the physical body take the lead, let the spirit take the lead
-Don’t ask why, ask where am I going to find the strength to go on? The test is to triumph.

This is a perspective changing book for those of us who have been told to ask the question why am I having this trial? This book offers alternative questions. Also with the idea that before this life, we mingled with those who had passed their first estate and wanted to become like them. We have often been told we jumped for joy at the plan, so where is the disconnect now as we experience trials? This book offers some answers to our struggles with compassion and truth. Highly recommended. It will be a once a year listen for me.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Strength Through Adversity" by Brent L. Top is a book I will refer to often with the many scripture references as well as quotes by prophets, ancient and modern, and leaders. "In fact, one of the greatest blessings that may come to us through adversity is an increased awareness of the Savior's love; during such times of affliction that pure love may be more profoundly felt in our lives than ever before. 'My God hath been my support.' 2 Nephi 4:20:21"

[MykeWeber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Years ago I read a book that greatly influenced my life. It was called When Bad Things happen to Good People by Rabbi Harold S. Kushner. It had a profound influence on me then. Perhaps, if I’d have read this one then and that one now, the impact would have been reversed. Top refers frequently to Kushner’s work in this volume and so it’s impact on this author is also quite apparent.

Brent L. Top takes it even further with much of Latter-day doctrine to support what Kushner derived primarily from the Book of Job. This of course includes the Atonement of Jesus Christ which, is without doubt, the central, and ultimate reason meaning and growth can be derived from adversity. For that reason alone, this volume becomes critically important to the topic.

[Michael Merrill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mostly strong doctrine and principles. It helps to know that the book was published in 1995 and has not been updated.

This is most apparent in the section regarding mental health. I give Bro. Top the benefit of the doubt and assume that he was using the best research available when ge wrote on that topic. However, nearly 30 years of physiological research has shown that NOT “all psychosis [mental disorders]” are caused by avoiding our problems. For this, the book REALLY needs to be updated.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fairly short book on how to deal with adversity in your life. It is absolutely packed with tons of quotes and scriptures which I loved. He talks about reasons for adversity and explores gospel principles on how one can find peace and hope.

[James Biser · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good collection of stories and insights into scripture that helps the reader to understand how adversity is part of God's plan of happiness. It is very well put together and is a good help to increase faith. This is a good book.

[Crystal Hereth · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing book! It teaches you how adversity is a part of the plan of happiness and how through the scriptures, you are not alone. Christ will not leave you comfortless and his love is always there for you

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it. It covered a lot of ground and different ways of trials. It was good, but less enjoyable and more informative. I don't mean that as bad, but it wasn't one with lots of stories and parables, but lots of truths and proof and examples. I would want to study this more.

[Vanina Jepperson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, uplifting read on adversity. A pretty thorough view on what it is, what it is for, and how it can be for our good if we will allow it. Focus being on trusting God and relying on our Savior. Absolutely beautiful.

[Colleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book about how to survive adversity in life. The author uses many examples of stressful and challenging life experiences and uses scriptural references to help explain how to better handle these trials. He also shares experiences from Christ's life and teachings which are inspirational.

[Lauren Perotto · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meh. Half star increase for quoting Steel Magnolias though.

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

(audio)

[Javier Fuentes Mora · Rating 5 out of 5]

it gives a lot of answers to many questions

[Kim Dennis · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was nice. There was nothing really "wrong" with the book. I don't know why, but it just didn't speak to me.

[Colleen Villasenor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short book talks about dealing with the trials and tribulations of life and finding peace through faith. It uses scriptures and life experiences to explain some of the whys of bad things happening to good people. It does not claim to have all the answers, just words of wisdom to deal with the injustices that one can't change in this life.

[Tia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great examples and stories. Inspirational and uplifting. There were a few familiar stories and plenty of one's i've never heard before.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to the discs. Most of what he had to say was great, but the format wasn't very easy to listen to. It put me to sleep.