BOOK REVIEW | Surviving the Storms of Life
Surviving the Storms of Life
H. Norman Wright, Matt Woodley and Julie Woodley
What do you do when life deals you a crippling blow? Life’s traumas can overwhelm body and heart. When we hurt, we cannot simply "get over" the anger, guilt, fear, and depression. But there is hope. Surviving the Storms of Life can help lead the way to recovery. Combining the talents and insights of bestselling author and trauma specialist H. Norman Wright with the pastoral and ministry experience of Matt and Julie Woodley, Surviving the Storms of Life offers strength and encouragement in the face of personal tragedy.
Extensive counseling and pastoral experience aside, the authors wrote this book after taking the awful journey themselves. They speak honestly of what it means to cry out to God and to discover his shaping, healing presence. With positive stories and expert advice, their book shows you that there is hope for recovery no matter what trauma you have been through. If you or someone you love is held captive by tragedy, this book can be the first step toward living the full and fulfilling life that we were meant to live.
MY REVIEW
Trauma is inevitably going to affect us all whether it’s a national crisis, natural disaster or on a more personal level. Earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes come with a vengeance, wiping out life as one once knew it. Terrorist leave millions gripped in fear and reacting based on those fears versus faith. Illnesses, death, divorce and other personal loss can strike Christians like anyone else. Even though we are believers, God does not promise we will not experience tragedy or loss.
I appreciated the writers of Surviving the Storms of Life sharing their personal experiences. Often times a Christian may become doubtful about their faith in the midst of tragedy. The questions, guilt and anger are overriding factors. The authors encouraged recognition of these symptoms and that it is okay to seek counseling to help one get a sense of normalcy.
A good portion of the book is about anger. This emotion brings incredible guilt because anger often results in a lack of self-control. The writers emphasized anger, guilt, fear and depression should not be ignored. Some listed verses that stood out as being very encouraging were:
- Isaiah 43:2
- 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- Romans 8:38-39
There was some really sound Christian advice in this book. A special chapter for helping children with trauma was included. Churches might want to consider purchasing a few copies for their library or sharing with staff members who are involved in counseling.
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