Scott E. Shaum

A useful reminder that suffering - whether physical, mental or emotional - is a normal part of life, to some extent. God can be with us in it, and suffering can be an important tool in our Christian growth. Whether it brings patience, or better understanding, or merely forces us to slow down, it is not always a bad thing.

Anecdotes from the author's life and examples from Scripture are included as well as some direct teaching. I didn't agree that we should not attempt to help someone when suffering, either to relieve pain via medication, or to advise them if we can. But most of the book is sound and helpful, including the advice to be a good listener and not to try to rationalise or deny suffering.

A bit repetitive and long-winded in places, but basically a good book on the topic. A strong Christian emphasis means this is unlikely to be of interest to those without faith. I'd also recommend getting it second-hand or finding a way to read it at no cost; I downloaded it on special offer, but would not have paid the current high Kindle price.

Full review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2020/03/the-uninvited-companion-by-scott-e-...… (mere)