The Promise: God's Purpose and Plan for When Life Hurts

This book has some interesting parts, spititual wisdom but it's written for a Catholic perspective some of which I don't agree with.

Since I had never heard of this author before, I'm not really sure why I ordered this book, but I am glad I did. I read several excellent reviews, and decided it sounded interesting.This book has three distinct parts. The first part, "God on Trial", is about who God is. The second part is "Emotional and Spiritual Healing". Part three is titled "Principles for Freedom-Living". As you read from one section to another it is almost like starting a new book each time, and each section is loaded with helpful information.Fr. Morris talks about the many different types of suffering and gives suggestions on how to deal with them. Sometimes we wonder why God allows bad things to happen. Fr. Morris reminds us that God creates good, He does not create evil, but because of free will, He allows it. Sometimes this is hard to understand, and when we suffer, we can become bitter or better.If we handle it right, we will be better people for having suffered. I know it is not easy. Many years ago our youngest son died as an infant. You never forget, but you can go on and be a better person because of it. I still read anything I can to help me learn to help other people with loss. I also recommend Rabbi Kushner's book,  When Bad Things Happen to Good People , which Fr. Morris quotes in this book."The Promise: God's Purpose and Plan for When Life Hurts" is a great book for all who believe in God. It is written by a Catholic priest, but it is not just for Catholics.

One of the best reads in a really long time. Father Jonathan Morris has a real gift for blending Christian faith with personal growth. I have read my fair share of self-help type books in the past, but rarely do I learn anything that sticks. I am not really sure how to describe it other than this book spoke to me in a way that really was life-changing. In fact, it was so life-changing that it changed my heart toward my husband (my problem, not his) and saved my marriage. Father Morris is a very gifted writer and has a knack for combining compassion, love for Christ, and humility. This is my favorite of his books.

And some good triggers for prayer for loved ones. I didn't find the appendix helpful on logic and evil though.

This book was recommended by a relative because one is dealing with stage IV brain cancer. I need to deal with it so I can help other family members down the road...now we have the horrible event in Arizona which makes reading this book all the more revelant. No matter what your Faith, it helps you to process life, and all it's forms of suffering, even the senseless killing of a little girl.How do people who have no Faith get through these things in life? What about those that give up on Faith and hold God accountable? It's all in this book! Where E. K. Ross dealt with the stages of dying for the individual On Death and Dying (Scribner Classics) , Fr. Jonathan picks up and helps the rest of us on the sidelines or those who are left behind. Thank you.

In one word, FANTASTIC. This book answered the difficult questions when I could find none on my own.I looked for answers from many places and found none. Then, my chance, I watched an interview Father Morris did on FOX news about his book. I ordered it the next day.After reading it, I finally found the answers that had eluded me. It allowed me to see things in a different light and helped me through some tough times.The one striking thing about this book is how Father Morris writes in a way that ANYONE can understand and relate to. You don't have to be ¨Religious¨, have a grasp on the bible or any other religious writings or books to get the answers you are seeking. Regardless of your religious affiliation, this book is a MUST READ.

I bought this book to bring with me when visiting the doctor. My husband is suffering from cancer and we make constant trips to the doctor's office. While there, I came upon this book and started reading it. I found, that Im not the only one who has feelings of sadness, guilt and misunderstanding, while going through a difficult time. I have learned, "The Promise" is just that. A "promise" that God will be with you ALL the time. It has been a great comfort to me, and I find myself reading it over and over again...keeping that spirit of hope alive. Father Jon,although I never met him, is my friend forever. I thank him from the bottom of my heart, for writing this book, just for "me".

Fr. Jonathan Morris does a great job of explaining why we experience hurt and pain even when we are believers and doing all we can to live as we understand God's will. His explanations, illustrations and concepts are rooted in real-world sorrows, fear and pain without sugar coating and the typical drivel found in so many other books.This book provides a unique understanding of God's love when we are at our lowest and what we can do to recover. Again, this is all very realistic. No smoke and mirrors here.This is a great follow-on to Rabbi Harold Kushner's "Why bad things happen to good people" When Bad Things Happen to Good People

This book has opened my eyes and helped me with my spiritual life and current trials. It gives you many practical examples of suffering. It touched my heart and made me know my Lord loves me and will always love me.

Absolutely encouraging and motivating. Father Jonathan Morris's writing is clear and concise.

Ein sehr vollständiges ausführliches und tiefgründiges Buch welches einfach zu lesen ist und extrem gut recherchiert wurde. Ein Buch zum Lesen zum studieren und zum immer wieder mal aufschlagen

I recently lost a child and this thoughtful book brought solace and comfort during a difficult time.It will be valuable as a reference for aid with other losses and in seeking to assist others in times of loss.

je l'ai lu et je l'ai trouvé très bien. Choisi pour être discuté dans un groupe de dames adultes de langue anglaise.