Suffering

Life has a way of leading us through both mountaintops and valleys, seasons of clarity and seasons of confusion. In this reading plan, through John the Baptist’s story and the other verses in Scripture, you’ll see that doubt doesn’t disqualify you, God’s silence isn’t His absence, and your calling is worth more than your comfort. He is still writing your story, and His pen has never left the page.

Doubting God in the Dark

We all face pain and suffering, but thanks to Jesus, we have the power not only to endure trials but to overcome them. In Him, you can get better, not bitter. Whether you’re new to faith or looking for a fresh way to connect with God, this 5-day devotional will encourage you with powerful truths from 2 Corinthians. 

God’s Comfort in Grief and Suffering

Life is hard.  After a while, the cracks start to show.  The apostle Peter understood this.  

In his letter to the persecuted church in Asia, Peter directs the them to look to Jesus as our ultimate example for how to live for eternity while enduring suffering. 

So what does that mean for us?  Grab a friend and let's dive into the book of 1 Peter together.

Living With an Eternal Perspective: A Guided Reading of Peter's Letter to the Persecuted Church

When we trust in the Lord, especially when we are surrounded by challenging circumstances, something amazing happens. A divine exchange occurs. What could not be perceived or experienced before that moment is now available to us. We see differently. We act differently. Emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, we are changed. Because of the Lord in us and our trust in Him, we will endure. This plan was created from reflections on the Psalms by Pastor Berry Johnston.

Learning to Trust God in the Psalms

Most people avoid talking about death – but pretending it’s far away won’t prepare you for it. This 6-day devotional faces the reality head-on: death may come slowly, suddenly, or when you feel ready. For Christians, it isn’t to be feared, and the journey can be filled with peace. With Scripture, real-life stories, and honest reflections, these readings invite you to live ready, talk openly, and leave fear behind. Read it now with your spouse or aging parents, and then again next year.

Conversations on Death & Dying That We Need to Have Now & Again Next Year

Whether it’s yours or a loved one’s, a cancer diagnosis changes everything. It stops you in your tracks as you put everything you have into fighting for life. Being thrown into the unknown chaos of treatment can feel isolating, but you are not alone.

Meet five cancer survivors in this devotional and hear their stories of being carried by God. Be inspired and encouraged that God will carry you, too. 

Carried Through Cancer: Five Stories of Faith

Turning from pain and suffering to God in hope begins with turning toward them in sorrow through the practice of lament. Through this biblical practice, then, we find hope. This five-day devotional leans heavily on the psalms to help you begin the practice of lament, which can lead you from a place of sorrow to resilience and renewed faith. 

Hopeful Sorrow: Lamenting Your Pain

Join Dr. Ken Boa as he tackles the age-old question of
How can evil and suffering exist alongside an all-good and gracious God?
Based on chapter 5 of God, I Don’t Understand, 50th Anniversary Edition,
this plan explores the mystery of Scripture, which offers the only truly
satisfying explanation and resolution to evil, sin, and suffering in a fallen
world.

If God Is Perfect, Why Is There Evil?

Easter is more than a celebration—it’s the greatest story ever told. From Jesus’ betrayal and suffering to His death on the cross and victorious resurrection, every moment was part of God’s plan to save us. But the story isn’t over. The risen King is coming back. Are you ready? Join Pastor Mark for this 5-day Easter study to find out!