The God of All Comfort

I have read many other books and references written about the Christian faith, but the book that has probably inspired me the most is this beautiful, spirit building book written by Hannah Whitall Smith decades ago. Her desire to convey the true personality of God in "The God of All Comfort" is done with much passion and factuality. Unfortunately, the many quotes of biblical scripture are not referenced, but with a good King James concordance (Strong's, Cruden's) you can find the proper chapter and verse. Overall, this wonderfully written book is clearly one of the best ever produced on this subject, and sooner or later it will be out of print. I encourage everyone interested to buy a copy now before that happens. A really GREAT book!!

A wonderful classic first published in the late 19th century, God of All Comfort is as fresh and new as today's news - fresher, some of today's news is pretty rotten. Wife, mother, and noted Bible teacher and speaker Hannah Whitall Smith answers these very modern queries: has Jesus been overrated, or has He been under-trusted? When He says, "Whoever listens to me shall dwell safely," (Prov. 1:33) is it for real? She answers these questions amply and satisfyingly, with a resounding yes. Why? Because it is so written and God does not lie. Scripture's statements are incontrovertible fact. We do not need to rely upon our own feelings. Basing all her teachings solidly in Scripture, Smith looks at these questions from many sides. Our Lord is our Shepherd and in Him is all comfort. Don't get trapped into thinking you have to deserve His care, rather, study the meanings of the names of God found in Scripture. Don't examine yourself to the point of leaving the Lord out of it. Because He holds you, you can be unshaken, encouraged, shouting with faith, giving the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and conformed to His image. Definitely, God of All Comfort does not attempt to domesticate God, rather it is the opposite - to help us see how we need to be tamed by God in order to receive His full benefits. If you have never read any of Hannah Whitall Smith's books, or do not know much about her, perhaps you would enjoy reading first the biography which concludes God of All Comfort. The peace, joy, and comfort which form the theme of this book were hard come by for Hannah; but once she discovered these truths, her life changed and she went on to become a loving, forthright minister of God's word. Let me share a blessing with you. This last batch of review books I received contained two classics: God of All Comfort, and God's Passion for His Glory, which contains an introduction from contemporary author John Piper and 18th century Bible teacher Jonathan Edwards' thesis, 'The end for which God created the Earth.' It is wonderful to make contact via their ageless books, with two of that great cloud of witnesses spoken of in Hebrews. The ideas they propound are as real and true today as they were when first written. God's Word does not change, nor do the needs of God's people or their work for Him. - Donna Eggett, Christian Book Previews.com

Hannah Whitall Smith's small book, "The God of All Comfort", is the little book I keep close by. It is the book I go to time after time, especially in times of sorrow, trouble, or fear. I have underlined and re-underlined passages. I have dated in the margins times when phrases have applied. This is the book I give to friends when they are going through deep waters. I highly recommend it.

I love the writings of H.W. Smith so very much because they are so practical and easy to understand. You can feel it: She experienced something.Especially the book "God of all Comfort" is so touching and not only comforting. It shows the way to satisfaction in the midst of hard times and sorrows in the everyday life. A wonderful book! The last chapter ("God is enough")seems to be the best and most helpful chapter. I quote some passages: "God, and God alone, is enough for all the soul needs. ... This is the crowning discovery of our whole Christian life...The Promiser is more than His promises; and His existence is a surer ground of confidence than the most fervent feelings...And should every promise be wiped of the Bible, we would still have God left, and God would be enough."

This book was exactly what I needed at a time of backsliding in the Christian life. Hannah taught me to stop fighting my own battles and hand them over to God, who fights for us. It also inspired me to get rid of all the worry and anxiety in my life. She masterfully illustrates, through biblical passages, God's unfailing love and care for His children. The way Hannah states her case, it is utter foolishness not to trust God completely and hand over all our cares to Him. Now I can look up at the stars at night, knowing that the God who made them is now in charge of my puny problems, and will bring about a solution in His own good way at His own good time. For just as we love to do good things for our children, "much more" does God love to do good things for His. If only every worried or anxious Christian would read this book, their lives would instead be full of comfort and joy.