The Bumps Are What You Climb On: Encouragement for Difficult Days

by Warren W. Wiersbe

People can't prevent crises from happening. But they can successfully deal with them. In The Bumps Are What You Climb On, Warren W. Wiersbe offers solid hope and comfort in times of depression, frustration, disappointment, or loneliness. He extracts wisdom from the Bible and presents it in thirty brief, accessible meditations that guide readers to respond with faith, trust in God's promises, reap the benefits of forgiveness, find contentment, and add joy to life. With uplifting teaching and empowering challenges, this insightful book is a compelling devotional for any believer at any time.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living, Nonfiction, Self Help, Christian Non Fiction, Faith, Devotional

160 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published April 1, 1980

About the author

Warren W. Wiersbe, former pastor of the Moody Church and general director of Back to the Bible, has traveled widely as a Bible teacher and conference speaker. Because of his encouragement to those in ministry, Dr. Wiersbe is often referred to as 'the pastor's pastor.' He has ministered in churches and conferences throughout the United States as well as in Canada, Central and South America, and Europe. Dr. Wiersbe has written over 150 books, including the popular BE series of commentaries on every book of the Bible, which has sold more than four million copies. At the 2002 Christian Booksellers Convention, he was awarded the Gold Medallion Lifetime Achievement Award by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. Dr. Wiersbe and his wife, Betty, live in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

Another great Warren Wiersbe read. A good book to read if you’re on the struggle bus. I found it encouraging.

Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Claton Butcher
Narration Rating: 3 stars
Genre: Non-fiction
Length: 4h 27m

[Elliot Brent · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good I wish I wrote it. This book was great! Anyone embarking on this book needs a highlighter on hand to capture the strength or points that are made. This title was produced for the simple aim of encouragement. It is a small book of thirty short chapters, but the chapters says much. I think this book is small because it is truly a keeper. Don't overlook this title. I wasn't sad at all when read this book, not in need of any strength: so this title was as eating a good meal although I wasn't hungry. It's rich. Anyone reading it will become enriched. Five Stars!

[Sarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

With short chapters and sound Biblical foundation, this was an easy listen.

[Amy | Foxy Blogs · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“Never doubt in the darkness what God has told you in the light.”

[Amanda Tero · Rating 5 out of 5]

I 10/10 recommend this book for anyone in a valley. Wiersbe covers so many topics with Biblical foundation rather than emotional facade. Depression, avoiding pain, change, discouragement, giving up, the small things, forgiveness, and joy are but a few of the topics covered in this book with powerful reminders of Scriptural promises.

[Janelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

In some ways I find this a very difficult book to rate. Warren Wiersbe has been known for his Bible study books for many years, and as a Pastor and author, has written many books such as this with clear, concise and very readable Bible teachings. In the case of The Bumps are What You Climb On, the text comprises of a series of short messages, initially broadcast over the radio, and all encompassing the theme of overcoming challenges and difficulties in life. Some of these sermons warrant a five star rating, given their encouraging nature and Biblical soundness. Others however, I could only grant a rating of three. This is due to three factors: firstly, my husband (who read it with me) and I disagreed occasionally with Wiersbe’s theology. Secondly, at times we found Wiersbe to be somewhat idealistic in his expectations, and believe that the Christian life is less black and white than Wiersbe made out. Thirdly, there were times when he seemed to be more discouraging than encouraging in his words. The chapter on depression is an example of this. This chapter would be an encouragement to those experiencing minor or temporary depression. But for anyone who has clinical depression or who is trying to support someone with depression, his message could be quite damaging and discouraging. The solutions he provides in this chapter reflect a shallow understanding of depression, and are likely to be beyond a person who is suffering from this condition.
Overall I’m glad that I read The Bumps are What We Climb On as it was for the most part an encouraging, enjoyable and helpful read.

[Joshua Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I used this book as a devotional to get through a crisis in my life. I am sad that the book has ended but there are many more books with similar content. This book reminded me of some of the Andrew Murray devotional books that I grew up reading and was very good for finding ways to rise above your circumstances and still find joy in the midst of pain, heartbreak, and situations beyond your control. Take the time to read it one chapter a day or however you want. It will stir your soul and encourage you to keep moving forward during times of trouble.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is exactly what it claims to be. A book of encouragement for difficult days. However, I don't think you would need to be experiencing difficulty to get a lot from it. I've read a chapter every day since my husband was diagnosed with a melanoma in November and will most likely keep doing that until he has completed his treatment. I love to read anything by Warren Wiersbe and this is a favorite. I would recommend this book for anyone.

[Linda Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book to cheer up Christians who are going through a rough patch in life. There are thirty short chapters, each one containing a bit of encouragement and insight to brighten a day. Each chapter takes only about five to ten minutes to read, so it is perfect for a daily devotional in case you're capable of reading a book with that kind of commitment and regularity.

At first I thought I could read a chapter daily, but as usual I'm terrible at anything that requires a daily commitment, so I stalled several times and ended up listening to my Kindle read me the last six chapters all in one evening because I really wanted to get this off my reading list and move on to something else. (True Confession)

There were no chapters I disagreed with, but most contained familiar thoughts and scriptures, so it was a good reminder rather than an amazingly new fresh way of looking at life. Maybe it would be for someone who was not a Christian... but I don't think they would be likely to read this... but you never know. There is one chapter toward the end of the book that seemed very evangelical in nature.

Overall this book was a good reading experience. The only thing I honestly didn't like was the title. He explained it at the beginning of the book. During a childhood experience someone told a child to be careful with bumps on a pathway, and the boy replied that the bumps are what you climb on. Cute story, but it still didn't make me love the title of the book. Great sentiment though when you think of the meaning. We do have difficulties in life and they have plenty to teach us.

Into every life some rain must fall. Such is life.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book of encouragement and inspiration by Warren Wiersbe. This is one I’ll revisit. I read a chapter or two a day. I enjoyed taking time to meditate on what I read.

[Kym McNabney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great little book. Though it's small, it's packed with amazing insight. I underlined much of the book, and found myself saying, yes, quite often. I feel this is one of those books everyone should read, no matter where you're at in your walk with Christ. I purchased five more, with intent to share them with others that I know would benefit from the messages this great little book provides.

[Ed · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great little book of only 30 chapters. It would make a good devotional for 1 month. If you read and digest this book for 30 days and practice what it tells you to do, then surely there should be a positive change in your life. All the chapters are based on Bible verses and can also be used in counseling.

[Lorene · Rating 5 out of 5]

If this is on your to read list BUMP it up to READ!

[Teresa Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book years ago when I was going through a difficult time after surgery/miscarriage. It got me through and for that reason, it's a keeper for me. Highly recommend.

[Khari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this book. It was convicting and uplifting all at the same time.

Life has been super tough recently with relearning how to walk and having daily setbacks and discouragement, so I am really grateful that my mom suggested this book. It's been very helpful.

In this book Wiersbe doesn't stand on a pedestal and talk down to someone who is struggling, he comes right down beside them and lifts them up and speaks words of courage and strength, so yeah, worth a read.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a little gem. Simple reminders from God’s word to encourage us in our walk. First book I have ever read by the author, but have used his commentaries many times.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book about being an authentic Christian

An excellent book about being a Christian in spite of ourselves! Well worth the effort. Offers some things to think about as related to our Daily Walk!

[Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

'The proof of the pudding is in the eating!' is a well-known saying in our parts. It is equally as true to say, 'The proof of the book is in the reading!' and this applies well to this wee book.

This book is a MUST read for everyone, not just those who have gone through or are going through difficult times ... it is a 'keeper' and a 'giver away' book! Yes, buy one for yourself and read it (it only took me a few days on and off to read it, with most chapters arpoufbn3-4 pages long) then put it somewhere where it will be accessible for future help. Also, buy at least one and giver it to a friend - it's really that good!

Anyone who has read any Wiersbe will know that what he writes in not heavy theology but winsome, warm and uplifting; and you'll, not be disappointed with this read then!

5-star, and more!

[Patricia C Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Praise God for All You Have

We all want to avoid the "bad things" that happen in our lives. We think God will bless us if we are good. But He is most concerned about our spiritual growth, and God knows that the testing of our faith helps us to become mature Christians. This author encourages us to trust our heavenly Father for He knows what is best for us. His divine plan is perfect and He causes all things to work together for our good.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this book simply because I loved the title! But I wasn't disappointed. Warren addresses many things I have read about before, but what I appreciated most was his knowledge of the Bible. He could tie everything back to a verse or a story from the Bible and that really impressed me because I find it hard to understand those scriptures at times. There is lots of encouragement in here for anyone struggling and many many great quotes!

[Meowzette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many encouraging reminders for those who might have forgotten.

This book is well written but it doesn't provide *new* insight into encouragement from the word. Rather, it reminded me of scriptures I already knew and brought them back into my consideration.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all have stressful, difficult days for one reason or another. This book helped you get past those times and realize sometimes the "bumps" are stepping stones to something better or help you accept the difficult times. Encourage people to read it especially if you are having hard times.

[Tom Hinkle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found it interesting to see the biblical teaching/references in his message about dealing with the obstacles and challenges life gives us. I did feel like the book didn't flow well at times. All things considering a good book for additional insight on making it over life's bumps.

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can you say, it is nearly impossible to go wrong with Wiersbe. This is a moving devotional that can be read one chapter at a time or just devoured quickly. As always Wiersbe gives great examples and illustrations along with Scripture to back up what he writes. A very encouraging book.

[Vaughn Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most encouraging books that helped me through 2020. What you believe really effects how you feel? This book is very Biblical and addresses fear, anxiety and depression from a belief stand point. The audiobook was so good I read/listened twice. Will listen again.

[Ron Reffett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book by a great pastor. Great devotional thoughts in small portions. Highly recommended, especially if you're going through trials of any kind.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book makes an excellent daily devotional, especially during difficult times. Many thanks to KC who loaned this book to me and waited so patiently for me to return it.

[Calamus Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very encouraging book. It helps you put trials into perspective. Lots of good tips for remaining positive even in hard times. God has your back!!

[Lana Superchi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life is all about "bumps" in the road. It isn't the bumps that define you but how you handle them. Great advice on putting it all in perspective.

[Sharla · Rating 5 out of 5]

30 short, encouraging chapters

I really really like this book.