Kiss the Wave: Embracing God in Your Trials

by Dave Furman

"I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages." These words, often attributed to nineteenth-century British preacher Charles Spurgeon, provide a unique perspective on suffering. What if God intends to work through our suffering rather than simply take it away? After living for more than a decade with a debilitating nerve condition in both arms, Dave Furman wants to expand our view of suffering by demonstrating that God, in his grace, always designs and uses trials for our good. In the midst of the stormy waves of trials, we can stop flailing our arms and instead embrace the God who is near to us even as we suffer.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living, Christianity, Counselling, Nonfiction, Theology, Faith

Audiobook

First published January 1, 2018

About the author

Dave Furman (ThM, Dallas Theological Seminary) serves as the senior pastor of Redeemer Church of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, which he planted in 2010. Dave and his wife, Gloria, have four children.

Reviews

[Maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book, for anyone but especially anyone going through a trial/illness. Totally agree with everything he's written about faith, trusting that God, in his grace, always designs trials for our own good. Not minimizing pain, but infusing significance into our suffering.

My husband is currently going through a physical trial with a type of cancer that is not curable but treatable; he is reading this currently and is liking it a lot, so a much better endorsement from one who has suffered but is persevering, trusting God's sovereign will.

[Kara Whitford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most facing the physical difficulties Dave Furman faces would never consider full-time ministry, much less church planting in the Middle East. In this book, Mr. Furman shares how the Gospel enables him to live a Christ-glorifying life through his pain, not despite it. This was an easy read, and the truth shared was not astonishing, yet his applications to a suffering life have made an impact. When I woke up this morning and realized today was one of those days where I would struggle to get through my responsibilities, I was able to turn first to prayer and be thankful that my pain can remind me that Christ suffered ultimate pain to take away my eternity of pain, and that through His grace I can glory through suffering now in the confident expectation of imminent glory in His presence for eternity.

[Linnea DeWaard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowza — this has definitely shaped my theology of suffering — especially with chronic pain —
When I’m experiencing pain, I can cling to the truth that Jesus understands — he experienced the worst type of physical pain — so he knows & understands

[Lynette Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such an encouragement to me and I know it would be the same for you. If you are going. Through a time of trials or know someone who is take the time to read this book. It is a quick and easy read but so rich in theology and encouragement.

[Heidi Mandt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is filled with the truth of the gospel over and over. Such great reminders of the peace that God gives to us in the midst of our trials. He is with us and has gone before us! Highly recommend.

[Emily Wildt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, well written book on suffering where the author encourages people in the midst of suffering to “remember the Lord”

[Dr. David Steele · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages,” said the British preacher, C.H. Spurgeon. Embracing trials in a God-honoring way is the theme of Dave Furman’s new book, Kiss the Wave.

The author does not write in an ivory tower. Nor does he write as a mere spectator. Rather, Furman writes as one who has been tormented by depression and pummeled by physical adversity. Inspired by the godly example of Spurgeon, Pastor Furman speaks candidly about the hurts, trials, persecutions, and ailments that Christians face in a fallen world. His biography is a fitting backdrop to the finer arguments that emerge in the pages of this book.

Furman writes as a seasoned pastor. His counsel, encouragement, and admonition is laced with grace and sensitivity and offers hope to people who are walking through a season of bitter providence.

A few outstanding features of the book will attract a host of readers and invite many people to study these pages and walk away encouraged.

First, this is a personal book. Furman is candid about his battle with a debilitating nerve ailment and the corresponding depression that goes along with it. Frankly, he admits some struggles that most pastors would never dream of sharing. This makes Kiss the Wave deeply enduring and helpful.

Second, this is a practical book. Nothing here is theoretical or cliche. Furman offers real help and encouragement for soldiers trapped in the “foxhole.”

Third, this book is propelled by the gospel. Readers looking for a quick fix or self-help solutions should look elsewhere. Here, we find the exaltation of the gospel which delivers sinners from the penalty of sin and the power of sin. The promises of God shine in Kiss the Wave and beckon readers to cling to Christ.

Finally, this book offers a much-need perspective. Dave Furman admonishes readers who are plodding on a nomadic journey to the Celestial City: “This land is not our home. As Christians, we are all expatriates, passing through this earth, holding a passport and citizenship to another place. Be encouraged to take the long view in your suffering. This life is a blip on the radar of eternity. It’s a small knot in an infinitely long rope.” Such is the perspective of a God-centered author. And such is the perspective of a reader who is captivated by the Savior and strengthened by his gospel.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

First sentence: How quickly we forget the identity of Jesus!

This book on suffering is titled, Kiss The Wave. The title comes from a Spurgeon quote: "I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages." It wasn't easy for Spurgeon, and it's no easier for us, to kiss the wave. But it is necessary and beneficial that we learn how to embrace the grace in any and every situation. Furman writes, "In the midst of the storm, God has your good and his glory in mind."

The book seeks to do two things. First and foremost, it focuses on Jesus. Chapter after chapter, he asks us to remember who Jesus is and what he is like. The good news of Jesus Christ is proclaimed page after page. The gospel should encourage and not discourage us when we're down. The second focus of the book is on stories. Through stories of people who have suffered--past and present--Furman seeks to encourage and reassure us.

I liked this one. I wanted to love, love, love it. But I didn't quite. I thought the theology was good. No complaints there. I liked the focus on the gospel, on Jesus. I liked the practical advice on how to suffer well. But I felt that there were just a few too many stories.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I say that we must to talk ourselves instead of allowing "ourselves" to talk to us!...Have you realized that most of your unhappiness in life is due to the fact that you are listening to yourself instead of talking to yourself? Take those thoughts that come to you the moment you wake up in the morning. You have not originated them, but they start talking to you, they bring back the problems of yesterday, etc. Somebody is talking. Who is talking to you? Your self is talking to you. The main art in the matter of spiritual living is to know how to handle yourself. You have to take yourself in the hand you have to address yourself, preach to yourself, question yourself. You must say to your soul: "Why are you cast down" and say to yourself "Hope in God" - instead of muttering in this depressed, unhappy way. And then you must go on to remind yourself of God, Who God is , and what God is and what God has done, and What God has pledged himself to do. Lloyd Jones

The author Dave Furman knows a thing or two about suffering. Suffering physically and emotionally. In his humble encouraging text, he does not give you a 5 step plan to overcome your suffering but to embrace your suffering and there is only one step to that. Where is your focus? Whom are you looking to?

I was very encouraged by this because it is the very thing that puts you at the feet of Jesus. You learn to kiss the wave that throws you against the Rock of Ages. A quote from Spurgeon whom himself suffered greatly but kept embraced the wave.

The text starts with the author's own suffering. Not a woe is me but an attempt to say me too. This is not a competition of who suffers the most. What it then leads to his the teaching of Jesus as he took his disciples on a boat and revealed to them that He is God. To recognize who he is and to rely on him. Another words how do we respond. As the gospel is aligned for us to respond, our suffering does the same. Is our response inward and God forward.

I think the most insightful of this text and that I never saw before is the trial of Christ. When Pilate brought forth Barabbas and Jesus and asked the crowd who to save. At that moment, there is so much there that reveals our need for the gospel. We are the crowd that says crucify Him and in our choice of Barabbas, we reject the gospel for what we think is better. We choose evil over life. Even Barabbas name is significant. It means son of the father and Jesus is the son of God the ultimate father. The crowd chose the wrong son. Wow. The significance of this is our suffering is choosing. What we choose to fill our thoughts with, what we choose to believe and whom we chose to put our faith in.

A quote that I will end with and that says it all and is the primary force in this text. "Being known by God is first to be chosen by God. There a primary truth that must enter our hearts if we to find joy in our sorrows".

I highly recommend this text to deepen your understanding of our sufferings that we too can embrace the wave that come crashing down. The joy comes not from our circumstances but who we run too.

A Special Thank you to Crossway Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m glad I read this slowly and chewed on each chapter. Many times, I stopped to read something out loud to whomever was in earshot. This book is short but full of depth and truth that only comes from a person who knows what deep suffering is. Hopeful, helpful, and encouraging, I’d recommend to everyone.

[Chris MacLeavy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dave Furman knows a thing or two about disability, depression, and dark nights of the soul. His latest work is a real, raw look at what those times look like, what developing a solid theology of suffering can do for you in those times, and the immeasurable joy that is available to the Christian when they see their circumstances as being from God, with God, and ultimately for God. Kiss the Wave is loaded with gospel and insight into the life of the suffering Christian. This book pulls no punches, and I loved it.

[Wes Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book to read especially if you are going through a trial or know someone who is. Dave Furman is someone who is uniquely able to talk about suffering as both someone dealing with chronic pain and a pastor. He does a great job showing how God's sovereigntly is so helpful in suffering. Knowing that God is aware, near, and working in the midst of our trials!

[Zach Barnhart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great primer on the topic of suffering and trials, and how we should think about our circumstances and the God behind them. A good review. Appreciated the recommended resources included in the back for others to consult.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I received this book for free from the publisher through Netgalley. My review and opinions are my own.**

"I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages." -C. H. Spurgeon

Kiss the Wave is a book about suffering. Every Christian will eventually face some form of suffering - illness, loss, difficult circumstances, etc - which is why there are so many books about suffering on the market. So the question always is, should someone read this book on suffering? I would say yes.

Furman writes this book as someone who has faced intense suffering. He suffers from a nerve problem that leaves him in pain and unable to use his arms much. He writes openly and honestly about both the sins and miseries he has experienced as a result of his pain, which is helpful. 

The book is packed with the gospel. He writes about Jesus and the hope found in him on every page. His argument is two sided - that suffering guides us into deeper relationship with and dependence on God, and that only Jesus can give us the comfort we need in suffering. The book is also full of Scripture, guiding the reader back to the Bible in every chapter.

Kiss the Wave is also very short, only 160 pages. I finished it over two days and about 2 hours of reading. While this means that it doesn't say everything that can be said on the topic, short books can be very helpful for people in pain who may not have much of an attention span.

[Heather Persing · Rating 5 out of 5]

***I received an advanced copy of this book from Crossway through Netgalley. This review and any opinions expressed are my own***

“When we understand who Christ is (the sustenance-provider and storm-controller), we will have peace in the midst of life’s storms. Misunderstanding who Jesus is brings us only fear and distress.”

Dave Furman does what so many have failed to do when writing about suffering from a Christian perspective; he talks honestly about his disability and his struggles with depression, and without minimizing his suffering, he brings so much hope. Every page of this book encouraged me to love Jesus more and to “kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages.”

[Matthew Manchester · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book and it IS good, but it was different than I expected. It speaks to people in pain/injury to remind them of their comforts in Christ. This is a good thing but I'd thought it would be more practical than just "remember the gospel".

I love Dave Furman and I would still recommend this book. But it could've been great and unique. It's more like a Paul Tripp book (which is no bad thing).

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my new favorite book of the year… in a season of deep suffering where I’m feeling the squeeze of affliction, this book has been a soothing balm of gospel truth! And if I ever write a book, you can guess that this one and his “Being There” will be often cited! I can’t even begin to explain the depths of my gratefulness for this book!

This paragraph in the conclusion is the perfect wrap up:
“Charles Spurgeon once said, ‘They who dive in the sea of affliction bring up rare pearls.’ We rarely experience the deepest and most satisfying joys in life while in extended moments of earthly ease. It is in times of trial when we are conformed to the image of Christ. It is in the difficult moments where God shapes us and makes us more like him. It is when walking through trials together that marriages are eventually strengthened, friendships are solidified, and our relationship with God goes deeper. This is why we can count it joy when we face various trials. We can kiss the wave of our trials because God is doing a million things for our good and his glory, and we can barely scratch the surface at all he is accomplishing in us in that moment.”

[Kristen Rosener · Rating 3 out of 5]

Based on Charles H. Spurgeon's famous statement, "I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of ages," Dave Furman addresses pain through the lens of God's sovereignty and love. In "Kiss the Wave," he shares his testimony, the stories of other sufferers, and draws from Scripture in order to show us that the waves of sorrow are what press us closer to God. The structure and style was hard for me to follow at times but that was more my issue than the author's. My favorite chapter was chapter 11, "The Wave Maker Will Carry You to Shore," which I believe perfectly summarized the book's message.

Favorite quotes:

"Our view of God's ways is like looking at the ocean from the beach: there's more of the ocean that you do not see than what you do see. Likewise, there is more to your trial than meets the eye, but it is hard to remember that when we misunderstand or misbelieve who Jesus is."

"Stop flailing your arms in panic and embrace the God who has sovereignly designed your circumstances. Kiss your wave."

[Danielle Williamson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would recommend this to anyone who is suffering, particularly someone at the start of a hard journey. This book would have been incredibly helpful to read when I was first diagnosed. Some of it was a bit under-nuanced for me, but I particularly liked the chapter entitled "The Wave Maker Will Carry You to Shore". My biggest encouragements came from Furman's transparency (I love that he was so open about mental illnesses without taking the time to disclaim them left, right, and center from Biblical counseling readers) and how he set up the chapters to be so simply read. That in itself shows a sensitivity and understanding towards the mental capacity of severe sufferers. This will probably get a re-vamped 5 star review when I read it in a different part of my own suffering path. I sense that Dave wrote much of this when he was past the worst of his grief and lament over physical disability- I hope to one day meet him there.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from Crossway to review.Since the first time I read a Gloria Furman book a few years ago, I have been curious about their life and how they cope with her husband Dave’s condition. He has a chronic nerve disease that causes him to experience constant, never ending, searing pain in his arms (and it’s started in his legs now). I think one reason I was curious is because chronic pain is a huge fear of mine. I’m amazed that this couple with their four kids have been used to plant a thriving church in Dubai in the midst of this every day tangible suffering. I was so excited when this book became available to me. If a suffering man who loves Jesus and is laying down his life every day for the gospel wants to teach people about suffering, you sit down at his feet and listen. This is a humble book (he makes sure that you understand he does not suffer perfectly) and it’s a simple one. He gives straightforward tools from Scripture to help you as you suffer, whether it’s physical or spiritual or emotional (he also suffers from depression). This book is super encouraging and even if you’re not facing heavy trials currently, it’s a great read, because Jesus promises suffering to all believers. Also, I’ve concluded that if I ever go to Dubai, I’ll be knocking uninvited on the Furman’s door for dinner to be encouraged and entertained. They both have a quick wit that’s a lot of fun.

“Our goal as followers of Christ should be that we love Jesus more as a result of our pain. As believers, we need to learn to kiss the wave of our trials and embrace God in our suffering because God is working in our hearts to make us more like Christ.”

“To walk with God means to hope in the promises of God. We trust God that Heaven is on the way. When you have heaven in view, you don’t need a more comfortable and easier ‘now’ to bring you joy. What you need instead is forever to reshape your here and now. Living in light of eternity doesn’t remove our pain, but it allows us to have hope in moments of pain.”

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book to remind us of Christ's strength in our own weakness. The various trials we face here on earth are small in comparison to the glory we will experience in heaven. Being brought closer to God during difficult times is a blessing to believers. Mr. Furman does a good job reminding us of this by telling his own struggles and not being overly dramatic in doing so.

[NinaB · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great little book that answers common questions pertaining to suffering. The author suffers from a debilitating nerve disease that causes chronic pain, so he is writing from experience. He addresses the problem of pain focusing on biblical truths and using biblical principles. I highly recommend this book to anyone who endures suffering and/or ministers to those who do.

[Nick Esch · Rating 5 out of 5]

The idea behind this book (especially the title) comes from a quote by Charles Spurgeon. He says, “I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages.” Throughout the book Dave unpacks this quote for us, and encourages the believer by pointing us to Jesus and reminding us of our great hope in Christ. Dave writes from a unique vantage point, as he suffers from chronic pain and is a pastor who ministers to others in the midst of their suffering.

Kiss The Wave is a gospel rich book that reminds the reader on every page that God is good and completely sovereign. Nothing, not even the worst of suffering that comes our way is meaningless. Dave writes, “As believers, we need to learn to kiss the wave of our trials and embrace God in our suffering because God is working in our hearts to make us more like Christ” (pg. 89). Along with that the book shows us how through suffering God reveals idols, and enables us to repent… So in our suffering God is making us more like Jesus, and by His grace we draw nearer to Jesus, as our idols and sin are put to death… Suffering is the wave that throws us against the Rock of Ages… In the midst of suffering we think it’s our circumstances that need to change, but Dave shows us that what needs to change is us, and especially our perspective. Anything that brings us closer to Jesus, that enables us to love Jesus more, to rejoice in Jesus more, and to follow Him more faithfully is something we should embrace (kiss), no matter how hard it may be.

This is a book that equips us and calls us to live in light of the hope of the gospel—to be joyful even in the midst of much pain… “How do we embrace God in the midst of our trials? How do we kiss the wave when we feel like we’re drowning in despair? We remember the Lord. We remember what he has done for us. We look to God and every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places that he has given us in Christ. We choose to live in the privilege of our adoption and the comfort that we are known by God. We glory in our Redeemer who died on the cross to save us from our sins. We rest in his finished work and know that our God is in control over everything. He is our refuge, and he will never leave us. He will keep us to the end, and there will be a day when all suffering will cease and we will be face-to-face with Jesus for eternity” (pg. 139-140).

As a pastor I look forward to putting this book in the hands of those I serve who are in the midst of great suffering, as well those who have yet to enter into it. In this broken world, suffering is coming for us all. This book will give you some great tools to battle for joy in the midst of suffering; and most importantly, in the words of that old hymn, this book will help you to:
“Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face;
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace…”

[Ben Clouston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dave has written a book that is accessible to every reader. His book will encourage those in trials, and challenge and inform others in how they can come beside brothers and sisters in our local churches who are in the midst of trials.

This book is filled with truth from the Word of God and practical wisdom. A must-read for every person who follows Christ.

[Gabe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hope can seem elusive amidst persistent pain. Dave Furman does an exceptional job of imparting hope to his readers, first and foremost through a deeper understanding of God’s character through the Bible. However, Furman also writes from a deeply personal place of experience. Kiss the Wave is a beautiful intersection of the gospel and life, equipping its readers to embrace the notion that suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope. And Dave, himself, is an example of the God of all comfort, comforting us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction.

[Joseph Knowles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kiss the Wave by Dave Furman
Length: Approximately 6 hours. To read (160 pages)
Rating: 5 out of 5

BOOK OVERVIEW
Few people can claim to have the same kind of experiences with trials and suffering as Dave Furman. Rather than simply recounting his personal struggles, however, Furman has given Christians a marvelous resource for preparing themselves for the trials we know will come.

Who should read this?

Every Christian ought to develop a strong, Biblical understanding of the purposes of trials in the lives of God’s children. It is because of the Biblical foundation of this book, that it can be treasured by Christians in all walks of life, regardless of their present circumstances. Those who have yet to face significant trials in their lives can equip themselves to face future hardships. Those who have endured trials in the past can empathize with the author’s struggles and see how his successes and failures might mirror their own or bring them into sharper focus.

The book would also be a valuable resource for pastors and Christian counselors. Some church leaders might have only limited personal experience with suffering and trials. With this book, however, they can draw on Dave Furman’s admonitions and words of encouragement to help those who are experiencing times of struggle.

SUMMARY

**Note: I received a review copy of this book from the publisher.**

The How:

Perhaps a fair number of Christians are familiar with the quote attributed to Charles Spurgeon from which this book takes its title: “I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages.” Dave Furman points out that (at least as far as we can document) Spurgeon might never have said those exact words.

Nevertheless, Spurgeon’s life makes for an excellent jumping off point for a book on how the Christian should understand and deal with trials. Spurgeon suffered throughout his life not only from various physical ailments, but he also carried with him the mental anguish of a tragic stampede during one of his sermons that resulted in the deaths of seven people. He struggled with depression throughout his life, until God called him home at the relatively young age of fifty-seven.

Given the details of Dave Furman’s life, it’s plain to see how Spurgeon’s quote inspired the title of the book. Furman, who is currently the pastor of Redeemer Church of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, developed a nerve disorder which has caused him to lose almost all use of his arms and because of which he has “suffered constant burning sensations in both arms.” Everyday tasks that we take for granted, such as getting into a vehicle and securing our own seatbelts, have been virtually impossible for him due to his symptoms.

Ultimately, however, what gives this book the power to comfort those who are enduring trials is not Dave Furman’s personal experiences, as difficult as those have been and presumably still are for him. It’s power to comfort, rather, comes from the author’s deep commitment to the Gospel truth that “When you have heaven in view, you don’t need a more comfortable and easier ‘now’ to bring you joy.”

Furman’s writing style is decidedly pastoral; he addresses the reader directly on a regular basis. However, his tone is much more like a conversation over a cup of coffee than what might be expected from a sermon. Kiss the Wave undoubtedly preaches to the reader, but it does so in a way that makes the teaching a joy to receive.

The Why:

As Christians, we know that facing trials is not a matter of “if” but rather “when” (see James 1:2). The need to develop a Biblical approach to facing trials could not be more clear.

With as many books as there are on that topic, Furman’s goal for this book is both realistic and straightforward. His book, Furman writes, “is not a magic formula to give [the reader] joy.” Rather, what Furman wants is to point readers to the truths of the Gospel, to direct the reader to “the greatness of our God and all that he has done for us in Christ.”

The What:

The persistent theme throughout this book is to point readers to God and the work that he has done for his children through Jesus Christ. As humans, our innate tendency in times of difficulty tends to be to focus inwardly, shutting out everything but our own problems (real or perceived).

What this book points out, however, is that it is “only when we take our eyes off ourselves and our circumstances and we gaze upon [God] and his work that we can keep our heads above water when the high tide of our trials comes.”

As pointed out in the first chapter, much like the disciples on the stormy Sea of Galilee, we Christians too often fail to see Jesus (in Mark 6 the disciples mistook him for a ghost) and we fail to see him for who he truly is. He is the “loving and sovereign God who sent the storm and holds you fast in the middle of it.”

In similar fashion, Furman walks through other passages that should form the Christian’s thoughts on trials, hardship, and suffering. Perhaps most powerful of all are the insights that are drawn out of the account of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion, in the chapter “The Great Exchange.” The crowd that clamored for Jesus’ death “chose evil over the one who loves perfectly.” Jesus carried his cross to his own execution while Barabbas “who was basically a terrorist” was set free.

Like Barabbas was physically imprisoned for his crimes against the state, we sinners are held in spiritual bondage because of our sin against God. We await helplessly the righteous judgment of a holy God. The good news of the Gospel is that “Jesus goes off to the cross in your place. He gets what you deserve; you get what he deserves. It is the greatest exchange in all of history. Jesus gives up his life so you can have life.”

What does that have to do with facing trials and suffering in the here and now? When we begin to understand just how gracious and amazing God’s grace is then “[j]oy in our trials can begin to take root in our hearts.” Reminding ourselves that we have been redeemed and saved from our sins should be a daily source of strength and encouragement.

As human beings we are always prone to becoming self-centered, focusing our attention inwardly, and dwelling on our circumstances. “When struggling through trials,” Furman writes, “allow everything in your life to point you to the cross. When you are downcast, go on the offensive and preach to yourself.” Drawing on advice given by Welsh minister Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Furman goes on to exhort Christians that even for those of us who will never step into a pulpit to preach the gospel “all of us are called to preach truth to our own hearts each day.”

ANALYSIS
I cannot lay claim to anything resembling the sort of trials that Dave Furman has experienced. In hindsight, however, I would have been greatly blessed had this book been available to me a little over four years ago when I unexpectedly lost my job and found myself without permanent employment for a year. Aside from the financial hardships that imposed on my family (and no doubt, in part, because of them), I went through times of depression.

I am blessed to be able to say that God not only brought me through those trials and times of depression, but used them to strengthen my faith. Sadly, I know that not every Christian has had that same experience. What I had to learn the hard way and what some seem to struggle to learn at all, are the very truths that Furman has distilled in his book.

It is overflowing with Biblical truths that can serve as a great source of encouragement for the church. Even though, in my own life, I had already grappled with some of the ideas in this book, being reminded of them--even though it also brought back memories of my own trials--was refreshing and uplifting. In my case, Furman’s prayer was answered: his book did indeed direct me “to the source of all hope.”

One of the obvious strengths of the book is the way in which Dave Furman can draw from his own experiences with trials and suffering. Most readers can probably only imagine the kind of persistent physical pain he has gone through. Thus, there really can be no complaint that the author of this book does not know what he’s talking about.

Not only his trials, but his personal testimony about how he has faced those trials are a significant part of what makes Furman’s book compelling. He never fails to connect his own trials with the Biblical truths from which he drew encouragement during those times of suffering. Nevertheless, he admits that at times he failed to follow his own advice. His human frailty is not limited to the physical, but extends to the spiritual.

That humble acknowledgement of his failures only serves to strengthen the advice and words of encouragement that he gives throughout the book. As he said at the outset, his book contains no magic formula; seeing that fact demonstrated in the author’s own experience reassures the reader that they too can hold fast to the same God that upheld the author in his hard times.

The book includes an appendix with recommended resources (some very old and some relatively new) that are organized according to each chapter in the book. Although Furman successfully packed a wealth of information into this book, there are many points that could have been developed further. For those wanting to study those points in more depth, the list of books that are supplied will prove very helpful.

CONCLUSION
I doubt that Dave Furman set out to write “the” definitive work on how Christian should face their trials. He often acknowledged the extent to which he is indebted to others for certain insights. However, even if this book never becomes a Christian best seller (although it would not surprise me if it did), the church should be grateful to have this work.

Furman’s personal circumstances, trials, failures, and successes all give his writing an undeniable sense of authority. It is, however, his utter reliance on the ultimate authority of Scripture and its truths that gives his book value for any Christian who takes the time to read it, whether they are presently experiencing trials or want to be able to more effectively minister to others.

FAVORITE QUOTES
* We can kiss the wave of our trials because God is doing a million things for our good and his glory, and we can barely scratch the surface at all he is accomplishing in us in that moment.

*When you have heaven in view, you don’t need a more comfortable and easier “now” to bring you joy. What you need is a forever to reshape your here and now. Living in light of eternity doesn’t remove our pain, but it allows us to have hope in our moments of pain.

*Being unhealthy or struggling with some trial shouldn’t cause you to stop your church involvement. You shouldn’t think that you’ll get involved once you’re healthy. The church needs you now.

*[Y]our circumstances don’t create what’s in your heart; your situation is just the stage on which the heart’s condition is revealed.

[Michelle Kidwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kiss the Wave
Embracing God in Your Trials
by Dave Furman
Crossway


Christian , Religion & Spirituality
Pub Date 31 Jan 2018

I am reviewing a copy off Kiss the Wave through Crossway and Netgalley:


Kiss the Wave deals with lives difficult times, with Chronic Pain and heart break in a very realistic way. This book does not sugarcoat the truths, but reminds us that sometimes God can even use the hard times in our lives.


In this book we are encouraged to remember who Christ is during these storms in lives. We are reminded too that God is our refuge, that he is there for us during the hard times. We are reminded too that God understands our pain.


If your looking for a book that is full of empty promises Kiss the Wave is not for you, but if you are wanting an honest and real book I would recommend Kiss the Wave!


Five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

[Jessie Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent points made, lots of real life stories and experiences, tons of scripture are at the backbone of this book. The author is relatable and uses scripture backing for everything. He doesn’t base his ideas on personal ideals but on scripture. I felt like the flow of the book was a little choppy but I got the point. The stories became a little distracting and I felt like it could have used more Bridge material (bridging from point to point). It was overall a really good book. There were just a few minor things that would have made it excellent.
I received a digital copy from netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Stefanie Sugia · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Don't read this book to merely gain knowledge or a quick fix, but to truly understand and live out the psalmist's cry, 'It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.'"

We usually use the term 'wave' to identify the struggles we go through in life. That's why I was instantly intrigued when I read the title of this book, Kiss the Wave. Right from the start, it's stated that if you're looking for a quick solution for your current suffering, this book is not for you. Instead of giving tips and tricks on how to diminish the afflictions we're facing, this book will give us guidance on how to embrace God—in and through our trials.

"I don't think Spurgeon gives us trite advice, pretending as if suffering is not difficult. I also don't think he is telling us to act as if our situations are easy: Just try harder and kiss those waves. No, Spurgeon tells us that God is doing more in our suffering than we can see with our eyes. None of us enjoys adversity. We want out, and yet God in his grace uses suffering for our benefit."

Dave Furman is someone who can give his own personal testimony as he goes through life having to deal with his physical disability. Throughout the book, he also included several other examples of people who are able to embrace God despite their suffering. There are also a lot of encouragement given through Bible verses about adversities; to assure us that even our suffering is under God's control, and everything works together for good according to His purposes.

"Hardship, sorrow, disability, persecution, and death are not good in themselves. But God in his grace uses them for our good and his glory. The nearness of God awakens us to him in our trials and draws us toward his grace."

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"The truth is, none of us is immune from suffering."

Compared to Dave Furman and several other people mentioned in this book, I'd have to say that my life is far from what you'd call 'suffering'. Even so, I believe that every single person in this world has their own portion of adversities in life, no one has it easy. That's why I find this book extremely relevant and helpful; not just for people who are in the midst of suffering, but for those who are preparing for it as well. It definitely strengthens my faith and secure my foundation in Christ with biblical truths; so that when I'm faced with greater difficulties in the future, I will not be easily shaken.

I learned a lot from this book and took a lot of notes as I was reading it. One of the things that struck me the most was when the author mentioned how some people usually try to comfort those who are suffering. People will say things like 'I know exactly how you feel' or 'Your grief reminds me of a time when I went through something', and it's almost never helpful. I've actually said similar things in the past to people who shared their struggles with me. However, this book reminded me that we can never truly understand how other people felt amidst their misery. But Jesus can; and he understands perfectly what each of us are going through. He's the all-knowing God who became flesh and experienced all sorts of hardships that we could ever think of. I also kept reminding myself that whatever I'm going through, Jesus will always understand our struggles even when nobody else can.↓↓↓↓↓↓

"Fellow Christian, God is with you. Literally. When you feel alone, he is with you. When you grieve, he grieves. When you are hurting, he is there to comfort you. When you don't know what to do, the Spirit of God will give you direction. When you don't know what to pray, he will help you with groanings too deep for words."

"We don't 'feel better' by trying harder or distracting ourselves. We don't lift ourselves out of the pit through positive thinking. Instead I can think of no better way forward than to point you to the greatness of our God and all that he has done for us in Christ Jesus."

For the most part, this book encouraged the readers to deepen their understanding about God. Yes, God is more than able to eliminate all our problems and hardships in an instant; but he's much more concerned about our understanding of who he truly is. We might not get to know the entirety of God's characters if we are not faced with adversities in life. As mentioned multiple times in this book, sufferings are not good on its own; but as God promised, he is able to work all things (including our trials) for good—according to his purposes. God wants us to be focused on his never-changing character, instead of being fixated on our challenging situation. Finding joy during a difficult season is something that's easier said than done. That's why it is important to constantly preach ourselves with the good news of the gospel.

"Reading this book is not a magic formula to give you joy. But God can use these truths to lift the floodgates of your heart so his joy can fill you to overflowing."

Sufferings are inevitable—they're a part of this life. As Christians, we are not immune to these afflictions, but we do have the privilege of knowing Christ as our savior. I would definitely hold on to this book for myself and for other people in times of difficulties when hope and reassurance will be needed. Instead of wasting time by resenting God, I'm learning to embrace Him in all circumstances—believing that God knows what's best for us and his plans are always good. I also love how this book always refers back to Bible verses that builds up our faith in God's Word. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who's going through a difficult time or situation. It has successfully given me a new perspective on the term 'suffering', and I will always remember the phrase 'Kiss the Wave'. An incredibly inspiring and encouraging book! Would love to read more of Dave Furman's books in the future. 😊😊

"True joy is a joy that is not subject to ever-changing circumstances. It is a joy that is grounded in truth.

As we suffer, we can work hard to try to numb our painful circumstances or to try to deny that they exist. But what we need instead of denial or distraction is a truth that will overwhelm the trouble."

Read the full review here:
http://www.thebookielooker.com/2018/0...

*This e-book is received as a review copy from Crossway

[MaryAnne Hommel · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Kiss the Wave: Embracing God in the Trials by Dave Furman, acceptance of the pain is what we are encouraged to do, and with the most effective tool at our disposal-the Gospel. The title is from a quote that is attributed to Charles Spurgeon, who had his own share of trials, grief and pain. “I have learned” Spurgeon is to have said, “to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages”. What Spurgeon meant is that it is by looking to the Rock, the Sovereign God, we can accept our circumstances and be equipped by His grace for His plan for our good and His glory.

Dave Furman has a unique ability to speak to the trials in our life with candor and compassion that I rarely find in books on trials. While it is abundantly clear from the scriptures that a life of smooth sailing without pain is never promised to the Christian, it is equally clear we will have pain, and that sometimes in abundance. Yet, many authors have a tone in that truth that brings more weight than relief, or present the truth with nothing more than lists of scripture that many of us know, but still find it difficult to find comfort in them.

Where Furman differs is in the revelation that while the path of suffering exists, it is the light from the Cross that provides insight, comfort and strength through our trials. The focus of each chapter consistently brings us back to the Cross, to the gospel that saves and the gospel that provides for our sanctification. Because of the gospel, we are different, our perspective is different, and our source of hope and coping is different. If we lose sight of the gospel, we lose sight of who we are in Christ and all that is given to us by Him. Furman masterfully unfolds these truths in a spirit of gentle compassion.

The book focuses not so much on trials and our weaknesses, but on God and His greatness. Each chapter takes different attributes of God and the way they meet us in our suffering, whether it is a short term situation or potentially lifelong, like a chronic illness. Learning how God is our refuge, what His rescue of us provides for us, His fatherly love and intimate knowledge of our pain shifts our perspective to the Rock of Ages. How should we respond to this? Chapters like Weakness is the Way and You are Part of Christ’s Body encourage us in practical ways to embrace God in our trial.

And here is what you need to know about Dave Furman. This isn’t a man who has obtained good theology through academia but in the stormy sea of profound and debilitating affliction. A church planter in Dubai, husband and father, Furman is afflicted with a nerve disorder that makes the function of his arms extremely limited and excruciatingly painful. These are truths he has learned in the sea of pain. You learn a bit about his discovery of these truths through his story, but this is not a memoir. What it keeps us from doing what we often do, dismiss them an author’s insight by assuming they don’t know what it’s like to suffer. It’s not one-upmanship, it’s identifying with your suffering.

I found this book consoling, insightful and perspective shifting. In the middle of pain and suffering, this is hard to accept, but it is in the truth of God’s goodness and love that we find a Father who knows your suffering, who hears your cries, who is, even when it doesn’t seem like is, near to you and moving on your behalf. He is with us through the pain.

I also found a few things you might not agree with, depending on your denominational or non-denominational camp. But these are differences that shouldn’t take away from the overall truth of this books premise, that the gospel is the source of life and hope in the midst of our pain.

This is a book I will return to when the next set of waves start to build. After having read it once, I find myself going back to particular chapters to sit a little longer with the truths that never change, even when my circumstances do. “In this world, we will have trouble” is the scripture none of us have on a plaque as a favorite promise. But Kiss the Wave is full of promises, insight and hope to help you embrace the waves when they come.

Thank you to Crossway Books for providing threeladiesoflit.com with a complimentary copy for review