Affliction: A Compassionate Look at the Reality of Pain and Suffering

by Edith Schaeffer

Edith Schaeffer comes directly to grips with the eternal question of why we face suffering and affliction in this life, showing us how to trust in God alone for comfort.

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

250 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1978

About the author

EDITH SCHAEFFER is the widow of Francis Schaeffer, and with him co-founder of L'Abri Fellowship. Her many books include A Celebration of Children and The Life of Prayer. She passed away in 2013.

Recognized internationally for his work in Christianity and culture, Francis A. Schaeffer authored more than twenty books, which have been translated into a score of languages and sold millions worldwide. He and his wife, Edith, founded L'Abri Fellowship international study and discipleship centers. Schaeffer passed away in 1984, but his influence and legacy continue worldwide.

children: Susan Schaeffer Macaulay

Reviews

[Natalie Weber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book I could read again and again because I love it so much! Other than the Bible, it’s the best book I’ve ever read. It has completely changed my whole outlook on life and my attitude toward difficult situations. Mrs. Schaeffer’s writing is so rich and insightful, but so real, so true-to-life. From her depiction of the two museums in heaven displaying the suffering through and overcoming of every hardship through all of time, to her behind-the-scenes look at Job’s suffering, to her recognition of the important work of every individual in whatever situation God brings their way, in every chapter the author leads the reader to a more biblical outlook on life. It is impossible to share everything that impacted me, but here is a brief quote from the beginning of the book:
“Affliction must be recognized as something we all need to deal with. There is no place to go for a vacation from the abnormality of the universe, from the effects of the Fall upon every area of life, and from the conflict of the ages. Persecution and affliction are a normal part of the Christian life. We need not be surprised or ashamed when our work, our family, our church, or our individual person is hit by some form of affliction. Satan does not fight against himself. So when those in the midst of false religions seem to be having an easier time than Christians, it should not be surprising. The criterion of living a growing, fruitful, Christian life in a close walk with the Lord is neither to be ‘abased’ nor to ‘abound.’ Both situations present temptations, but both can be places of victory.”

Then Mrs. Schaeffer goes on to help the reader understand how to get from their present state to that place of victory. Highly recommended for anyone who is dealing with pain, suffering, and affliction – and I think that pretty much includes everyone.

[Felipe Sabino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Muito bom!

[Leonardo Bruno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enquanto revisava este belíssimo livro, fui deveras confortado e instruído pela sabedoria e doçura bíblicas de sua autora - não somente porque perdi cerca de trinta páginas de revisão a um dia da entrega para o editor (ainda bem que ele é um cara legal e muito compreensivo, ao contrário do que dizem por aí), mas também porque tenho passado por alguns dramas familiares com os quais ainda não estou sabendo lidar direito. Posso dizer, então, que foi a um só tempo um privilégio e um desafio trabalhar nesta obra.

No finalzinho, Edith ainda apresenta um exemplo (concreto, ocorrido no L'Abri) de como podemos, vejam só!, usar a literatura de ficção para consolar os que sofrem. Sob este e muitos outros aspectos, é um livro imperdível (embora eu não concorde com todas as leituras que ela faz e alguns textos bíblicos).

Mais uma vez, a Editora Monergismo está de parabéns por disponibilizar esta obra para o público leitor de língua portuguesa.

[Janie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've ever read.

[Eric Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you have books that have been in your library for years, but overlooked. This is one such book in my library. I must have had it for over 40 years, but have never read it thoroughly. I'm glad I happened upon it recently, for it is a gem. Edith Schaeffer tackles the tough, tough questions: why suffering? why do the innocent suffer, what causes suffering? And in the book she grapples with the pain and mystery of suffering with unusual warmth, profuse illustrations from her own experience, and a mastery of the biblical material.

We can seldom trace the why, but we do know that God overrules affliction to help us grow in faith and in ability to help other sufferers. The original cause is traced to the action of one man, Adam. The ramifications of that sinful choice are manifold. Schaeffer points out that God is not the cause. Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazurus. He was angry. Death is an enemy. The last enemy.

The causes of suffering may be the wiles of Satan, our own failures, the sins of others, the nature of human existence and may be either emotional, psychological, physical or spiritual.

Perhaps the best way for me to give the potential reader some insight in this volume is to quote here and there from the text. Let me say up front that the book is not a superficial or easy read. Sometime paragraphs are long, something 21 century readers are not accustomed to. However effort expended will be well rewarded.

A few quotes.
• True hope changes sorrow, but does not obliterate it. Death is not to be taken as a 'normal, beautiful release' but as an enemy. It spoils the beautiful creation God.
• The Word of God is very fair in giving us realistic examples of God's servants throughout history--Job, Paul, Stephen, etc.
• We can understand ourselves better if we think of ourselves as earthen vessels and repeat from time to time, 'There's another carck!', Or 'Oops! there goes my spout.'
• The compassion and the tenderness of our loving Heavenly Father will take forever to learn about.
• Personality as a whole is affected by the physical condition, and the physcial condition is affected by the mental and emotional condition.
• Patience is not a neat package to be received in a basket or bowl...learned through affliction.

In two chapters, Edith Schaeffer invisions two museums in heaven where God will display for all eternity the troubles His people have endured and victories they have won through His grace.

Throughout the book she counters the sad advice that modern 'Job's comforters' give afflicted saints; you need to repent for the sin that caused it, you just need faith in prayer, and so on.

Her chapter on cracked teapots beautifully portrays our common humanity, the weaknesses we all share. 'There is no elite group which has better or more marvelous answers to prayer.'

She has illuminating chapters on how we learn to be comforters of others, and how the way we bear trouble affects others in an evangelistic way. Another chapter compares our modern lust for freedom from inconvenience and trouble to abortion, an aborting that cuts us off from patience, steadfastness, experience and hope.

A very helpful and inspiring book.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read.....very insightful to today's world even tho it was written 25 years ago!! God's word never changes!

[CuriousBob · Rating 3 out of 5]

So often, I hear superficial, uninformed, and misleading opinions regarding pain, suffering, and tragedy.  This book requires a slow, thoughtful, and deliberate read that may lead to an honest foundation for the wondering, searching Christian.  There is hope to be found in our troubles.  Do not read this if all you're looking for is an answer to the ubiquitous "why" question--you may only find frustration; however, you may come to new insights.  I recommend a sober reading of this book and, as is my personal discipline, read widely.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really, really good. This helped me work through problems I didn't even know I had. I recommend it to everyone.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wise words from a dear, creative lady, but not by any means an easy read. The real life examples were good and the last chapter w/ tips and practical advice was especially interesting.

[Leandro Dutra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great balance of application of theology of suffering and Christian hedonism.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was truly compassionate towards the person suffering. A breath of fresh air. None of that trite optimism that seems to tell others to put on a happy face and buck up. She does not at all deny the pain and reality of suffering. At the same time I was encouraged and challenged to deepen my trust in God and realize that God providing us grace to endure through a difficult trial is no less remarkable than Him providing healing or removing that trial. I borrowed a copy from my friend but want to get my own because there is so much in here that I want to come back to.

[Ken Grant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very personal look at the issue of affliction in the life of the follower of Jesus Christ. Stresses the infinite ways in which the God of the universe can work through suffering to accomplish His work in our lives. Encourages the follower of Christ to see the larger picture and ultimately trust in the promise of eternal life while relying on the Lord to help day by day.

[Elias Lacerda · Rating 4 out of 5]

"A maravilha constante e imutável é que Deus cuida de nossa direção - não só dos David Livingstones da história, ou dos Calvinos e Luteros, mas de cada um de nós."

Uma dose de consolo para tempos difíceis, Edith é muito biblica e implicada no tema do livro. A única ressalva é que os capítulos poderiam ser um pouco menores, os assuntos as vezes se repetem.

[Barbie N · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a rich read! I brought this book home from my father in law's apartment after he passed. I was drawn to try it because of 'affliction ' that some dear friends are enduring. It hit me in all the right places too! And her writing style is somewhat poetic, which I also enjoyed.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book that talks about afflictions from a solid Christian perspective. The way of Edith's writing makes every page an enlightenment to enjoy. Although she cited most from KJV and NIV for scriptures, it doesn't affect the beauty of her way of thinking.

[Shirley Klooster · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a classic, for sure! The illustrations she uses to explain portions (not just verses) of scripture are potent with real life meaning.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best, theologically sound books I have ever read on affliction. Will re-read, bible open and pen in hand!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A timeless book on suffering in the Christian's life.

[Ashley Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book!! This is a must read for Christians and non-Christians alike. It really addresses a lot of confusion and points important details out in the Bible that I never realized were important. Many thanks to the author for this.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had heard this recommend on a podcast (by a reformed author!) and had it on my to read list. So I was delighted to find it on Kindle Unlimited recently. Unfortunately, since I had heard the glowing review before, I didn't really read much else on it before jumping right into the book itself. If I had even read the description of the book on Amazon, I might have been given pause a bit. Right on the Amazon page for the book, it says, "It is not that affliction comes from God." Well, then. Despite whatever other wisdom I did actually find here and there in this book (and there certainly were some good thoughts sprinkled throughout), it's impossible to reconcile a thought like that with a robust view of the sovereignty of God. I appreciate that Edith did not claim that God promises a life with no trials or that if we have enough faith they will all be removed- both common errors in the way many talk about afflictions. However, the theme of affliction not being sent by God really made any other good in the book fall flat a bit for me.
As this was the second book I read by Edith Schaeffer, I realized I may just not connect well with her writing style, either. I got lost in some of her illustrations and stories, which seemed to drag on at times. So all in all, this book was a bit of a disappointment for me.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A breath of fresh air. Full of compassion and care. Immersed in Scripture. Real, tangible, working truth, with no hype or drama. There is nothing cliché and trite about Edith at any time, but definitely not in this book. Her counsel is quiet, straightforward, and truly helpful. Suffering and affliction is dealt with straight on.

There is no unrealistic and irritating optimism (which so often ignores what is actually happening and shrugs off the honest questions and struggles). Instead the book is saturated with solid and working faith in a personal God who is sovereign and love. Practical and gentle, with the hope of eternity clearly and beautifully presented as the ultimate answer.

Highly recommended to anyone weary or hurting or who just needs a strong and compassionate voice of truth in their lives. I'll be coming back to this book many times.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this. Edith has a way of speaking in words that makes you feel like she's a sweet mentor, sharing tea with you, and giving you solid, Biblical advice for the wars waging in your soul and in your circumstances. With Scripture and personal experience with God's work in her life, she helps us remember that our earthly battles are not a flesh-and-bone battle. The Lord (and the Enemy, for evil devices) is working in our grief, sorrows, disappointments and even everyday irritations and setbacks, to glorify Himself and refine us to be more like Jesus. Excellent read, very quotable and a deserving re-read. I highly recommend it, especially for anyone going through a difficult season, circumstantially or spiritually.

[Carla Gain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent insight about pain and suffering woven with truths in scripture as well as the author's personal revelations and illustrations. I absorbed it one chapter at a time letting it soak in over a period of time. Most important reminders at the end of the book to live in and enjoy each moment for what it is worth. Don't let our cares and worries rob us of joy that is ours for a particular time. This is one to be referenced many times over.

[Barbara Radisavljevic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is for those who are suffering and wondering why God allows it. It's based on the book of Job and deals with the hard questions -- the kind Job asked. If you or someone close to you is going through a hard time in life, you should read this. Edith wrote it when her husband was dying of cancer.

[Laura Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a library copy of this book but I will definitely purchase my own copy because I found so much value in this book. Edith Schaeffer writes as if she is sitting across from you having a very heartfelt conversation. In fact my answer to that familiar question, who would you have lunch with living or dead would be Edith Schaeffer. She has a tremendous amount of wisdom to share.

[Abigail Leventhal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic. Such a compassionate yet theologically sound perspective on a hard topic. Schaeffer writes with personality and empathy for people who hurt deeply. I love this book and I use it as a guideline for my research on suffering from a Christian perspective.

[Clarissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book on suffering in the life of a Christian--uses parallels from the life of Job.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book before you settle your mind on a lot of current issues about life and death.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The ideas in this book saved my sanity, my life, my faith after the death of my baby long ago. I wrote to the author and she and I corresponded for awhile.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful and insightful book about the meaning of suffering. Gentle thoughts about tough questions of life.