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Together Through the Storms: Biblical Encouragements for Your Marriage When Life Hurts
This devotional helps married couples to navigate the storms of life together. Working through the book of Job, Sarah Walton (author of "Hope when it Hurts") and her husband Jeff reflect on their own experiences in a marriage that has faced chronic illness, the after-effects of abuse, a child with neurological challenges, and financial difficulties–and show how to cling to Christ and each other.
This is not a "how to" guide on having the best marriage, but, rather, a walk alongside you and your spouse, sharing the realities of suffering and the effects it can have on a marriage. It is an encouragement to lift your eyes above your trials, off your spouse, and onto our all-sufficient Savior.
This is not a "how to" guide on having the best marriage, but, rather, a walk alongside you and your spouse, sharing the realities of suffering and the effects it can have on a marriage. It is an encouragement to lift your eyes above your trials, off your spouse, and onto our all-sufficient Savior.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published May 1, 2020
56 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Walton
6 books42 followersSarah Walton is the coauthor of the award winning book, Hope When It Hurts, as well as Together Through the Storms, and He Gives More Grace. She is the author of Tears and Tossings and The Long Road Home (children's book). She and her husband, Jeff, live in Colorado Springs with their four children. You can connect with Sarah on Instagram at @sarahpwalton and find more of Sarah’s writings at her website setapart.net.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 1, 2020
Together Through the Storms is an excellent marriage book for couples facing trials in their lives and in their marriage. Jeff and Sarah Walton write as a couple who have been through the fire and have come out stronger. They have faced great suffering in their marriage, and they have great encouragement to offer.
In these pages, Jeff and Sarah consistently point the reader toward Christ. Together Through the Storms is filled with Scripture and godly counsel. Each chapter ends with questions for thought/discussion, a prayer, and a journaling page. This would make a wonderful book to read and discuss with your spouse through whatever season your find yourselves in.
Whether you are preparing for future storms, navigating current storms, or processing a season of suffering that you have come through, this book will be a helpful resource for you. Together Through the Storms is a book I will recommend over and over again!
In these pages, Jeff and Sarah consistently point the reader toward Christ. Together Through the Storms is filled with Scripture and godly counsel. Each chapter ends with questions for thought/discussion, a prayer, and a journaling page. This would make a wonderful book to read and discuss with your spouse through whatever season your find yourselves in.
Whether you are preparing for future storms, navigating current storms, or processing a season of suffering that you have come through, this book will be a helpful resource for you. Together Through the Storms is a book I will recommend over and over again!
May 1, 2020
I highly recommend this book! It's one thing for an author to write from the mountain top. However, the authors of this book write from the trenches. I cried my way through the first chapter. It spoke healing and hope to my heart. Words cannot express how glad I am this book was written.
August 5, 2021
Jeff and Sarah Walton’s Together Through the Storms: Biblical Encouragements for Your Marriage When Life Hurts is a marriage book unlike any I’ve ever seen.
Jeff and his wife Sarah (who blogs at setapart.net and co-wrote Hope When It Hurts) have been through a lot together: physical injuries, financial hardship, battling Lyme disease (Sarah and their four kids suffer from Lyme), job loss, not to mention the normal struggles every couple goes through like communication and sin issues. And yet, with the help of God, they remain not only together, but stronger.
While the adversity they face would drive many to give up on marriage and faith, Jeff and Sarah have leaned into difficulty for the glory of God. My wife and I know Jeff and Sarah from attending the same church (until the Walton’s recent move) and can say they are the real deal.
It’s rare to have a book on marriage written by two thirty-somethings that is so deep and helpful. But Jeff and Sarah are wise beyond their years because the furnace of affliction is a great teacher. Jeff and Sarah interweave their story with the book of Job to process suffering in marriage and how to move forward together. Jeff and Sarah’s journey exemplifies the paradox of the Christian life that we can be sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.
The Waltons walk through a variety of issues that give readers a well-rounded look at life and suffering in the context of marriage. Issues include: helping your spouse battle depression, dealing with past sin issues, thinking through marital intimacy while suffering, and more. (I found Jeff’s story from one chapter so helpful that I tell it in my book When Prayer Is a Struggle coming out next August.)
Together Through the Storms is part biography, part book on suffering, part book on communication in marriage, and part book on living out the gospel. Reading it with your spouse will help you process past difficulty and prepare for the future. It’s a very practical book too, with ten-page chapters that end with reflection questions, a prayer, and related Scriptures. I suspect many readers will find reading it compare to an inspiring spiritual bootcamp that gives the tools to work through major challenges of life and marriage, and to do so together.
Originally posted at: https://www.kevinhalloran.net/togethe...
Jeff and his wife Sarah (who blogs at setapart.net and co-wrote Hope When It Hurts) have been through a lot together: physical injuries, financial hardship, battling Lyme disease (Sarah and their four kids suffer from Lyme), job loss, not to mention the normal struggles every couple goes through like communication and sin issues. And yet, with the help of God, they remain not only together, but stronger.
While the adversity they face would drive many to give up on marriage and faith, Jeff and Sarah have leaned into difficulty for the glory of God. My wife and I know Jeff and Sarah from attending the same church (until the Walton’s recent move) and can say they are the real deal.
It’s rare to have a book on marriage written by two thirty-somethings that is so deep and helpful. But Jeff and Sarah are wise beyond their years because the furnace of affliction is a great teacher. Jeff and Sarah interweave their story with the book of Job to process suffering in marriage and how to move forward together. Jeff and Sarah’s journey exemplifies the paradox of the Christian life that we can be sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.
The Waltons walk through a variety of issues that give readers a well-rounded look at life and suffering in the context of marriage. Issues include: helping your spouse battle depression, dealing with past sin issues, thinking through marital intimacy while suffering, and more. (I found Jeff’s story from one chapter so helpful that I tell it in my book When Prayer Is a Struggle coming out next August.)
Together Through the Storms is part biography, part book on suffering, part book on communication in marriage, and part book on living out the gospel. Reading it with your spouse will help you process past difficulty and prepare for the future. It’s a very practical book too, with ten-page chapters that end with reflection questions, a prayer, and related Scriptures. I suspect many readers will find reading it compare to an inspiring spiritual bootcamp that gives the tools to work through major challenges of life and marriage, and to do so together.
Originally posted at: https://www.kevinhalloran.net/togethe...
June 21, 2020
In this book, Sarah and Jeff Walton share their hard-won wisdom about how to sustain a healthy marriage in the midst of life's storms. Throughout their years together, they have faced chronic illness, financial troubles, children's health problems, the after-effects of abuse, and other incredibly challenging issues. In spite of all this, they have been able to endure through difficulty and maintain their relationship, and they have written this book to provide other Christians with the kind of guidance that they always wanted. This book deals with real-life issues in a direct and vulnerable way, and never presumes any one-size-fits-all solution. The authors write with sensitivity to those who suffer from similar or totally different struggles from their own, and direct their readers to Christ and gradual relationship work together, instead of promising a solution to the external or internal difficulties that can make a marriage so difficult.
Practical and Honest
Together Through the Storms: Biblical Encouragements for Your Marriage When Life Hurts is one of the most practical marriage books that I have ever read. Although the Waltons write about theological and spiritual views of marriage, they also grapple with the practical difficulties of life together in the midst of suffering, providing both personal stories and Scriptural insight about how to cope with suffering while still fostering a close marital relationship. I recognized so many different couples within their stories, and realized how rarely I see some of these experiences reflected in books. This is a very rare resource, since it focuses on entrenched, unchanging difficulties instead of just providing advice for how to fix surface-level problems.
The Waltons use the book of Job as the focal point for their work, drawing on its teachings about suffering and about how a person's pain impacts their relationships. They explore the implications for how Christian couples can deal with suffering internally, process it together, and deal graciously with people who say hurtful things and do not understand. Also, even though this book is designed for couples with or without children, some of the chapters address heartaches and difficult situations that come with the territory of parenting. Personally, I really appreciated what they had to say about parenting children with chronic health issues, since this is such an important topic that rarely gets addressed. I sometimes wished that they would go into more detail, since they were often very general about the things that they shared, but I respect their desire to protect their family's privacy.
Reading Together
This book has discussion questions and journaling pages at the end of each chapter, and Sarah and Jeff designed this as a resource that spouses would read and discuss together. They alternated which chapters they wrote, and also co-wrote some of them, depending on the topic. They share both their individual perspectives and a unified voice, and because this book comes from the perspective of a husband and wife, rather than a counselor or relationship expert, it has a very authentic and personal appeal.
Husbands and wives will be able to see some of their own thoughts and feelings reflected in what this couple has written, and may be able to better understand their spouse's point of view after reading about the struggles and emotions that someone else's husband or wife has walked through. I found it interesting to see the subtle and more significant differences between how Sarah and Jeff wrote about different aspects of the struggles that they have faced. Some issues affected one spouse more than the other, and the way that they share and process this on the page can help other couples feel understood and communicate through their own differences.
The Waltons also keep this book accessible to people whose spouses refuse to read this book with them. Although they are very clear that abuse should not be tolerated, and that someone in a toxic and oppressive marriage should get help and leave their abusive partner, they express hope for those who are dealing with a spouse who does not share their Christian beliefs or is not willing to work on their marriage right then. Someone who is in that situation can read this book and still benefit from it, instead of feeling discouraged.
Conclusion
Together Through the Storms is a biblical, practical, and encouraging resource for suffering couples. The authors never suggest quick fixes or shallow answers, but delve into the hard questions of life and share the wisdom that they have gained through their own difficult experiences, helping couples of all ages and life situations work through their suffering together and find ways to strengthen their relationship despite their painful constraints. I highly recommend this, whether someone is dealing with intense suffering right now or not, because storms will come, and this book can help a couple endure in the midst of pain, prepare for the future, or deal with the aftermath of a crisis. This is an excellent book for Christian couples, and is one of the best marriage books that I have ever read.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Practical and Honest
Together Through the Storms: Biblical Encouragements for Your Marriage When Life Hurts is one of the most practical marriage books that I have ever read. Although the Waltons write about theological and spiritual views of marriage, they also grapple with the practical difficulties of life together in the midst of suffering, providing both personal stories and Scriptural insight about how to cope with suffering while still fostering a close marital relationship. I recognized so many different couples within their stories, and realized how rarely I see some of these experiences reflected in books. This is a very rare resource, since it focuses on entrenched, unchanging difficulties instead of just providing advice for how to fix surface-level problems.
The Waltons use the book of Job as the focal point for their work, drawing on its teachings about suffering and about how a person's pain impacts their relationships. They explore the implications for how Christian couples can deal with suffering internally, process it together, and deal graciously with people who say hurtful things and do not understand. Also, even though this book is designed for couples with or without children, some of the chapters address heartaches and difficult situations that come with the territory of parenting. Personally, I really appreciated what they had to say about parenting children with chronic health issues, since this is such an important topic that rarely gets addressed. I sometimes wished that they would go into more detail, since they were often very general about the things that they shared, but I respect their desire to protect their family's privacy.
Reading Together
This book has discussion questions and journaling pages at the end of each chapter, and Sarah and Jeff designed this as a resource that spouses would read and discuss together. They alternated which chapters they wrote, and also co-wrote some of them, depending on the topic. They share both their individual perspectives and a unified voice, and because this book comes from the perspective of a husband and wife, rather than a counselor or relationship expert, it has a very authentic and personal appeal.
Husbands and wives will be able to see some of their own thoughts and feelings reflected in what this couple has written, and may be able to better understand their spouse's point of view after reading about the struggles and emotions that someone else's husband or wife has walked through. I found it interesting to see the subtle and more significant differences between how Sarah and Jeff wrote about different aspects of the struggles that they have faced. Some issues affected one spouse more than the other, and the way that they share and process this on the page can help other couples feel understood and communicate through their own differences.
The Waltons also keep this book accessible to people whose spouses refuse to read this book with them. Although they are very clear that abuse should not be tolerated, and that someone in a toxic and oppressive marriage should get help and leave their abusive partner, they express hope for those who are dealing with a spouse who does not share their Christian beliefs or is not willing to work on their marriage right then. Someone who is in that situation can read this book and still benefit from it, instead of feeling discouraged.
Conclusion
Together Through the Storms is a biblical, practical, and encouraging resource for suffering couples. The authors never suggest quick fixes or shallow answers, but delve into the hard questions of life and share the wisdom that they have gained through their own difficult experiences, helping couples of all ages and life situations work through their suffering together and find ways to strengthen their relationship despite their painful constraints. I highly recommend this, whether someone is dealing with intense suffering right now or not, because storms will come, and this book can help a couple endure in the midst of pain, prepare for the future, or deal with the aftermath of a crisis. This is an excellent book for Christian couples, and is one of the best marriage books that I have ever read.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2020
This is the best marriage book I have ever read. Every couple should read this book to help prepare for the storms which will inevitably come at some stage in your marriage. This book is full of wisdom and is a practical way to guide through rough waters of any human relationships. I cannot praise this book enough. I would summarise this book as 'We are broken people who form broken marriages and the only way to salvage our marriages is to keep our eyes on Christ and take our eyes off of ourselves and our spouse'.
May 1, 2020
I had the opportunity to read a pre-release of this book and it is fantastic! Jeff and Sarah Walton co-authored this book, not from the mountain top of a perfect life and marriage, but in the normal, and not-so-normal, challenges of life.
Jeff and Sarah are completely transparent about their own marriage journey, both the ups and the downs. Their story is one of real-life challenges and disappointments, which makes their encouragement in the book so easy to accept and transfer to my own life. Instead of dispensing lofty academic theories on how to achieve a perfect marriage, they walk alongside the reader, fully acknowledging life and marriage are really hard sometimes. Their wisdom comes from the pages of Scripture, and from their own experiences and journey. Their advice and encouragement can easily be trusted because they live it out everyday of their own lives.
The chapters in the book are short and easy to read. The style is very conversational and transparent. I especially love the reflection questions, prayer asking God to help in a particular aspect of marriage, and space to journal thoughts, at the end of each chapter.
If you are married (or aspire to be) and are currently in the midst of a storm yourself, or even if things are relatively calm at the moment, this book will encourage and strengthen your marriage.
Jeff and Sarah are completely transparent about their own marriage journey, both the ups and the downs. Their story is one of real-life challenges and disappointments, which makes their encouragement in the book so easy to accept and transfer to my own life. Instead of dispensing lofty academic theories on how to achieve a perfect marriage, they walk alongside the reader, fully acknowledging life and marriage are really hard sometimes. Their wisdom comes from the pages of Scripture, and from their own experiences and journey. Their advice and encouragement can easily be trusted because they live it out everyday of their own lives.
The chapters in the book are short and easy to read. The style is very conversational and transparent. I especially love the reflection questions, prayer asking God to help in a particular aspect of marriage, and space to journal thoughts, at the end of each chapter.
If you are married (or aspire to be) and are currently in the midst of a storm yourself, or even if things are relatively calm at the moment, this book will encourage and strengthen your marriage.
May 1, 2020
Together Through the Storms is written with a heart to share, encourage, and challenge the reader to trust God in the midst of their hard moments. I appreciate that the authors encourage us to think about what this trust and faith in God looks like through our actions, words, and attitude, particularly in our marriage. In our four years of marriage we have leaned on one another and Christ through a major accident and recovery, job loss and starting a new business, and extended family dynamics that were beyond our wisdom to navigate. As I read Sarah and Jeff’s story I definitely felt like I could relate and I appreciate that each chapter encouraged us to reflect and ask good questions. In doing that at the end of chapter one I was reflecting on the idea that it is not “if” but “when” suffering comes… and those reflection questions at the end of each chapter helped me to work through that big idea further throughout. I strongly recommend this book and would suggest reading it slowly with thoughtful time to reflect and pray through what you are reading.
May 1, 2020
Whether you are facing stormy weather in your marriage or currently sailing on calm waters, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to you.
Using the book of Job as a basis, Together Through The Storms walks us through the wide range of challenges that life can present us with and the impact these can have on our marriage. It offers insight, wisdom and encouragement to cling to Christ, both individually and as a couple in the face of many differing trials.
This is a book is not just a theoretical manual of lofty ideas, but rather an honest account of the storms the authors have faced in their own marriage and the truths and hard won wisdom that have enabled their marriage to not only survive, but thrive. It is uplifting, faith-building and encouraging. If your desire is for a marriage built on God's grace and all that Christ has achieved for us on the cross, one that honors Him and displays His glory, then I encourage you to buy this book. You will find much to encourage, challenge and inspire you!
Using the book of Job as a basis, Together Through The Storms walks us through the wide range of challenges that life can present us with and the impact these can have on our marriage. It offers insight, wisdom and encouragement to cling to Christ, both individually and as a couple in the face of many differing trials.
This is a book is not just a theoretical manual of lofty ideas, but rather an honest account of the storms the authors have faced in their own marriage and the truths and hard won wisdom that have enabled their marriage to not only survive, but thrive. It is uplifting, faith-building and encouraging. If your desire is for a marriage built on God's grace and all that Christ has achieved for us on the cross, one that honors Him and displays His glory, then I encourage you to buy this book. You will find much to encourage, challenge and inspire you!
May 1, 2020
I’ve had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of “Together Though the Storms” by Jeff and Sarah Walton, and I highly recommend it! I love the warm, conversational tone of the book as they share compelling examples from their own marriage, beautifully weaving together the nuts and bolts practicality of real life issues with the beauty and wonder of God’s magnificent gift and purpose in marriage. I love the way they do not shy away from hard topics, like sexual intimacy. I have read a number of marriage books and have never seen this topic handled so well - it is typically either over-spiritualized, glossed over or much too clinical. Especially in these days where the pressure on marriages is heightened, this book is a great help and encouragement in navigating the challenges all marriages face.
May 1, 2020
Jeff & Sarah Walton offer a much needed perspective on marriage in “Together Through the Storms.” No marriage is immune to suffering & their wise & humble insight into the character of God & the truth of His Word offers direction in not only how to endure the storms, but how to grow in our love of God & our spouse because of them. They offer rich theological insight as they consider the book of Job as well as practical (& thankfully, not overwhelming) steps to take, prayers to pray, scripture to meditate on, & conversations to engage in. I find much hope in the fact that Jeff & Sarah write from within the storms themselves, but with a peace and conviction that is palpable and accessible to all of us through Christ.
May 1, 2020
This book provides biblical truths on how to come through the storms (trials and sufferings) in your life as it relates to marriage. It presents Job’s life of suffering and how to gracefully persevere through trials ~ always trusting God and His promises. It is encouraging, hopeful and challenging, always pointing to Christ and His Word to find strength. A wonderful feature of the book is that each chapter ends with a reflection and prayer section with additional scripture reading for further meditation and discussion. This book is wonderful for those experiencing trials now, and also for all couples to prepare them for the “storms” of life that will come. I will definitely be reading this book again and gifting to many!
May 1, 2020
This book is exactly what we need during these times of uncertainty. The Waltons continue to point the reader to the hope we find in Christ. They give practical advice for couples going through real struggles. They don't make light of the struggles or gloss over the real pain that stems from these struggles. This book is great to read on your own or with your spouse. The questions at the end of every chapter are very helpful to reflect on. The constant going to the Word of God is what makes this book so helpful! I so appreciate this resource, and I will be gifting this book to many people.
May 1, 2020
Reading this book is liking having a heartfelt conversation with a friend that has been where you are and lovingly and gracefully points you to life-giving truth and love found in the face of Jesus. Sarah and Jeff, without ever meeting them, through their book, have walked with me through pain and grief, and given me real hope in the face and love of Christ. They help me see the gift I have in my spouse and that together, my spouse and I can walk hand in hand through challenges and find hope in Christ.
May 1, 2020
This book is a must read for any marriage that has faced or is facing any type of difficulty. Finances, health, children, and careers all have the potential to create conflict in marriage. This book guides you through those difficult times and shows you biblically how to love your spouse through them. Now more than ever in our troubling world circumstances, this book is a lifeline for marriages.
May 2, 2020
From the depths of their pain and heartbreak, Jeff and Sarah give open, honest and raw stories of how they have walked through hardship and trials in their marriage and how they came through it stronger.
The timing of the release of this book could not have been better! During these uncertain times, we need to be pointed again and again to the gospel, and the hope that we have in Jesus Christ.
That is exactly what you’ll get here in this book! Highly recommend!
May 3, 2020
So very grateful for this book. Real help for real marriages in the trials we all face at one time or another. So appreciative of Sarah and Jeff for sharing their story and all they have learned in the midst of the storms!!! Will keep coming back to this one.
May 2, 2020
Marriage books tend to fall into the same trap as parenting books–touting formulas for proven ways husbands and wives can overcome conflict and achieve marital bliss. This prescriptive approach often oversimplifies both the problems that confront couples and the solutions for navigating deep trials, leading us to set false expectations and thus bank on false hope.
Together through the Storms takes a different, refreshing approach. Jeff and Sarah Walton share the real and ongoing challenges they’ve faced as a couple and highlight how God addresses these difficulties through his Word. Using the book of Job as a guide, Jeff and Sarah show husbands and wives how to shift our perspectives on suffering and how we view one another–not as enemies who need to change, not as perfect partners who complete us, but as flawed companions who are being shaped by a Sculptor to reveal more of the image of Christ in us.
Jeff and Sarah preach this truth as a couple still pressed under the weight of chronic illness, parenting struggles, and residual grief over past experiences. Reading their reflections brought back memories when our marriage hit a series of devastations, including years of infertility and longing for children. Their words speak with compassion toward those tender spots that we encounter as couples, and spur us to depend all the more on God’s grace, both during long-lasting trials and in the day-by-day battle to love one another unconditionally.
Whatever storm is threatening your marriage, however irritated or disappointed or furious you are with your spouse, you can open this book and find concrete hope. Jeff and Sarah don’t offer a 5-step plan to conquer marital struggles. They give you something far better––a compass directing you and your spouse to Christ.
Together through the Storms takes a different, refreshing approach. Jeff and Sarah Walton share the real and ongoing challenges they’ve faced as a couple and highlight how God addresses these difficulties through his Word. Using the book of Job as a guide, Jeff and Sarah show husbands and wives how to shift our perspectives on suffering and how we view one another–not as enemies who need to change, not as perfect partners who complete us, but as flawed companions who are being shaped by a Sculptor to reveal more of the image of Christ in us.
Jeff and Sarah preach this truth as a couple still pressed under the weight of chronic illness, parenting struggles, and residual grief over past experiences. Reading their reflections brought back memories when our marriage hit a series of devastations, including years of infertility and longing for children. Their words speak with compassion toward those tender spots that we encounter as couples, and spur us to depend all the more on God’s grace, both during long-lasting trials and in the day-by-day battle to love one another unconditionally.
Whatever storm is threatening your marriage, however irritated or disappointed or furious you are with your spouse, you can open this book and find concrete hope. Jeff and Sarah don’t offer a 5-step plan to conquer marital struggles. They give you something far better––a compass directing you and your spouse to Christ.
May 7, 2020
Has your marriage endured any rough storms yet? Mine has, and I wish I had had this book to keep me afloat when my first inclination was to question, blame, and distance myself from my spouse. Scripture holds the antidote to our fear and doubts, and in the most unsettling moments we often need someone who has walked out intense suffering in light of the Gospel to help us navigate the unique spiritual & emotional pitfalls that arise in trial. This is especially true as it relates to our most vulnerable and sacred relationship: marriage. The Waltons give a refreshingly honest and deeply encouraging walk through many facets of trial to help other couples continue to see God’s hope and help in even the most devastating circumstances.
I love that the chapters are short, rich, and end with reflection questions/scripted prayer/a spot to journal. This is made even sweeter if couples can read and reflect together, as the authors suggest!
If you haven’t faced major trials yet....it’s only a matter of time (Jesus told us this to help us prepare & encourage us!)—and I highly recommend this book to prepare you for them. If you have weathered storms, (successfully or not) you understand the challenges of focusing on Christ when everything feels like it is falling apart and the help that a book like this could be. This is a great one to have ready on your shelf and to share with a friend!!
I love that the chapters are short, rich, and end with reflection questions/scripted prayer/a spot to journal. This is made even sweeter if couples can read and reflect together, as the authors suggest!
If you haven’t faced major trials yet....it’s only a matter of time (Jesus told us this to help us prepare & encourage us!)—and I highly recommend this book to prepare you for them. If you have weathered storms, (successfully or not) you understand the challenges of focusing on Christ when everything feels like it is falling apart and the help that a book like this could be. This is a great one to have ready on your shelf and to share with a friend!!
December 2, 2021
For those with depression, anxiety, stress, worry, pain, or loneliness, this devotional book is for you. For those who think you’re alone, forgiveness is out of reach, or that God has been silent, this book is for you. This book uses the Book of Job to illustrate the purposes in our suffering. When you understand that everyone suffers painful seasons and trials in life, you find that you have a God you can trust to refine you, and a marriage that suddenly makes a lot more sense in revealing God’s character. Your spouse is not your enemy, but we do have an enemy hell bent on destroying anything God loves, including your marriage. Your spouse is your friend and your partner, and your marriage is so much more than you ever thought. Lament and faith can beautifully coexist. Not only does every chapter help you pour out yourself to God with heartfelt prayers, it also asks questions to help you reflect on your marriage, your faith, and your trust in God.
June 26, 2020
So good. Worth reading for the fabulous quotes alone. Here is my favourite: “Believer, the foundation of your joy is never dried up. If, like Jonah, your plants are withered (Jonah 4:7), your God still lives. If, like Job, your goods have been plundered (Job 1:15), the highest good is still yours. Are the rivers dry? The ocean is full. Are the stars hidden? The heavenly sun shines on in eternal brightness. You have a possession that is unfolding, a promise that is unfailing, and a Protector who is unchanging. Though you live in a faithless world, you dwell in a faithful God.” (C.H. Spurgeon)
October 19, 2022
For those considering marriage or trying to figure out what a godly marriage should look like, there are many helpful resources available. But when marriage is hard and providence is unexpectedly difficult, it is discouraging hearing echos of what marriage "should be like" from some of those resources when it's just not.
This is one of the most practical books I've ever read on marriage when it hurts. Instead of "what your marriage should be like", the authors show how Jesus meets us where we are with daily grace. The book does a great job working through tough topics including loss, priorities, submission & headship, unanswered prayer, depression, physical difficulties and suffering, prodigal children, and more, using Job as a springboard for where our hope must be rooted even when nothing makes sense.
Difficult marriage -- even as Christians -- is a reality of living in a sinful world. This book is incredibly practical because it acknowledges our daily struggle yet provides strong reminders to persevere in Christ who is our strength and comfort. It acknowledges the hurts without allowing for a victimization mindset. Jesus is the master of our storms.
📚YES study questions for couples after each chapter
This is one of the most practical books I've ever read on marriage when it hurts. Instead of "what your marriage should be like", the authors show how Jesus meets us where we are with daily grace. The book does a great job working through tough topics including loss, priorities, submission & headship, unanswered prayer, depression, physical difficulties and suffering, prodigal children, and more, using Job as a springboard for where our hope must be rooted even when nothing makes sense.
Difficult marriage -- even as Christians -- is a reality of living in a sinful world. This book is incredibly practical because it acknowledges our daily struggle yet provides strong reminders to persevere in Christ who is our strength and comfort. It acknowledges the hurts without allowing for a victimization mindset. Jesus is the master of our storms.
📚YES study questions for couples after each chapter
May 17, 2020
Reading this book is like sitting with two good friends, walking together through suffering in each other's lives. Its message shines for its transparency, honesty and hopefulness. Life is hard but Christ is near. Jeff and Sarah are tasting this day to day. This book is really helpful for marriages going through any difficulty. It is insightful and Word-filled. We have lived overseas for almost 5 years. And it has had a toll on our marriage. This book has been really encouraging as we keep walking by faith. Very grateful!
January 28, 2025
Started and stopped this book 3x n the midst of a very dark season with kids struggling with mental heath.... I am so glad I persevered and finished this book- it's practical and very helpful. It was soothing (and challenging at times) to read n the midst of our hard times- I found it so helpful to have many Bible verses to read later and really memorize/saturate my mind in to help me through the trials. We read it as a couple and both got different encouragement for our specific situations.
May 25, 2025
Incredible words from these pages. When life brings one storm after another relationships are often rocked to and fro. This book gives the reader nuggets of gold to navigate the rough waters of hard circumstances. The authors are not exempt from life's storms and share this openly in the book. Since the author's cling to the ROCK of AGES the book delivers HIS Grace and Wisdom that are valuable for all of daily living in a marriage.
July 28, 2024
This should be required reading for any Christian couple as they navigate the storms of life, prepare for them, or reminisce about those they have been through and what they have learned together. The principles in this book are timeless and would be of value to any couple as they seek to love and face the world's challenges together.
May 4, 2020
A down-to-earth, truly good book. Practical and applicable advice is given, letting us know/reminding us that God does work out everything for His good.
January 4, 2021
Although this wasn't what I expected, it was full of good advice and a good perspective.
February 23, 2024
I'd say it's a must-read! So much wisdom. I've never been one to write in my books, but I highlighted and underlined so much! I found so much encouragement and wisdom pointed out on these pages!
April 9, 2024
Awesome book!
Very thought provoking even in a time without significant troubles. A great reminder to thank God for the good times
Very thought provoking even in a time without significant troubles. A great reminder to thank God for the good times
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