The Upside of Down: Finding Hope When It Hurts

Joseph Stowell's book, The Upside of Down, points the reader to the Scriptures for insights in dealing with times of pain and suffering. Thirteen brief chapters summarize the most common questions relating to evil and suffering and Stowell provides biblically sound answers to each question. The familiar Scripture passages on suffering are here (Job, James chapter 1, etc.)and the insights that Stowell brings out of these passages are helpful. In addition, Stowell's careful choice of excellent illustrations and stories makes the book an easy and engaging read. This book in some ways reads was like a collection of 13 good sermons,with an appropriate mix of exposition, illustration and application.

My brother suffered horribly with cancer for 4 long years. All the while he praised God. He praised God to his last breath. I received this book about the time he passed away. This book has been a comfort to me and helped me understand the purpose of pain in our lives. This is one of the best books I have read on how God uses pain in our life. I had a hard time putting this book down. I highly recommend it. Very easy read.

This book is a real comfort for anyone going through a seemingly senseless tragedy or any serious health concern.. i have given it to friends who have ongoing legal/family battles in their lives which they have very little control over. Turning it over to God and trusting in his outcome is the only way to peace. Highly recommend.

Joseph Stowell has written a powerful book for anyone who is experiencing the trials and ups and downs of life, however severe they may be. The author directs our attention to the Source of life and comfort, our Sovereign God, who knows all about our trials and can provide us with help if we seek it from Him. I have given this book to people who are in the midst of difficult trials and they have told me how much it helped.

"The Upside of Down" is a title by Joseph Stowell that encourages the reader to remember that while our struggles here on earth may at times be many and intense, they are temporary compared to the eternity of heaven. The book is about 170 pages and contains 13 chapters, some of which are entitled: 1. Counting It Joy 2. Truths That Hold Us Steady 3. Capable and Usable 4. God-Sufficient 5. Job's Unusual Task 6. Why Do the Wicked Prosper? 7. Keep On Keeping On While there have been times in my own life why I have gone through particular struggles, I have learned that instead of asking "Why?" (as in, why God are You allowing this in my life?), I should instead ask "What?" (as in "God, what are You trying to teach me through this situation?"). Stowell's book reinforces that instead of griping and whining about our situations, we should instead allow God to strengthen us in His power through the struggles. A good challenge to hang in there with the Lord instead of trying to negotiate life in your own strength and on your own terms. Recommended.