When Your Days Are Dark, God Is Still Good: Biblical Advice to Help You Trust in Difficult Times

by Gary Zimak

“We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28) It’s easy to see the work of God’s hands when things are going right—a promotion, a new baby, or a financial windfall. But what about when things go wrong? How could God possibly make good out of illness, death, or betrayal? In his letter to the Romans, St. Paul boldly asserts that God uses all the circumstances of our lives—good and bad—to express his love for us. In When Your Days Are Dark, God Is Still Good , Gary Zimak—author of the bestselling and award-winning Give Up Worry for Lent! —shares personal stories and scripture narratives to show you that God is not only present in your pain but also uses your pain to transform you into a holier, more compassionate person. St. Paul’s confidence was born of conviction as one who had endured great suffering for the Gospel—and had found God faithful. Zimak looks at the story of Paul and other biblical figures in both the Old and New Testaments to show how God used their painful circumstances to bring about good,   Each chapter includes questions for reflection and a prayer.

160 pages, Paperback

Published May 5, 2023

About the author

Host of Following The Truth on BlogTalkRadio (M-F at 8PM Eastern)

Author of A Worrier’s Guide To The Bible and Listen To Your Blessed Mother(coming in August 2013)

Regular Guest on Catholic Answers Live, EWTN Radio’s Son Rise Morning Show, Catholic Connection with Teresa Tomeo and Relevant Radio’s Morning Air

Catholic Lay Evangelist and Motivational Speaker

Blogger and Regular Contributor to Catholic Stand, Catholic Exchange & New Advent Websites

Reviews

[IyanuOluwa Olorode]

I'm grateful for this book. I picked it up at a time when the only question on my mind was "God, why?". Though I couldn't find why in this book, I learned to hope. I learned to trust. My faith was built up. And I'm grateful.

[Kimberly]

“When Your Days Are Dark, God Is Still Good” is a book that can be used time and time again whenever shadow and darkness fall over someone’s life.

The author explains his reasoning for writing this book is to offer something in addition to seeking consolation in the Bible to those who are grieving or distraught. I was brought to tears when the author said that when someone has just suffered a devastating loss, that individual needs somethings more than a Bible verse hanging on a wall – they need proof that the words are true. For those people like me who still feel a terrible hollowness after losing a loved one, sometimes a Bible verse really isn’t enough to stop the hurt and fill the void.

I really enjoyed the layout of the book as the author examines several biblical examples of God working in dark situations, personal insight from the author’s life, prayers, and questions for self-reflection and discussion.

I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to strengthen their Christian faith. If you’re currently experiencing darkness or can’t seem to move on from a tragic event, this book is for you. If you know someone who is experiencing a trail in their life that needs support and encouragement, this book is for you to share with them. This book has examples of circumstances that can span a person’s entire life, so I see readers picking up this book again and again for help and comfort.

Thank you to NetGalley and Ave Maria Press for the opportunity to read an advanced reader's copy of this book for an honest review.

[Ann Lersch Lewis]

I bought this as a potential resource for a bereavement program, and will use it for that, but it has much broader applications. I had previously purchased another book by this author (Giving Up Worry for Lent) which I liked very much and found to be a moving daily devotion during Lent. Zimak writes with relatable, concise style, not overly preachy or too deep in confusing scripture. His simple, encouraging words are easy to understand and process when you are in the midst of a challenging life crisis. I recommend this book - note the religious background is Catholic.

[Patricia]

Si loved this book! It reminds me that we are all not perfect that we were not mean t to not suffer because even those who knew God and loved him suffered but that there is hope and love in his mercy it’s clearly shows no matter what the circumstance is there’s is a way out and by faith love and sacrifice all thing happened for a reason and will be ok because he walks with us and will not leave us in bad times as well.

[Annunziata]

Couldn’t put it down. Read it cover to cover in one sitting. Every one of us has gone through difficult times. The author parallels common challenges we all face with what Biblical figures experienced. Also offered are individual prayers for each difficulty as well as questions for reflection. A comforting read. You may find that you are reading this book at the exact moment when you need it most. 🕊️

[Matthew Graglia]

Compassionate and Insightful

The author does a good job of relating the different ways and situations where we can feel like we're at the end of our rope. I found that it spoke to me. It offered hope and comfort. God bless Mr. Zimak for ministering to those trying to cope with suffering while struggling to remain faithful.

[Robin Dix]

This book is not what I expected. It’s really good for new believers or those wondering why there is suffering and how God wants to use that. It was a short read, but enjoyable.