The Hope Challenge Devotional: A 50 Day Journey of Encouragement and Renewal, Paperback

Suffering is unfortunately something we must endure in this life, even if you are children of God. Suffering comes in all forms, from minor disappointment to major hardship, and no one is spared from it. Hardship was also part of author Damian's upbringing, growing up dealing with poverty, homelessness, and a father who wasn't there. Such situations could have anyone bitter about life and God. Even as a father he must continually wrestle with discouragement while raising a son with complex medical needs who requires full assistance for daily living. However, as he demonstrates in his new devotional, The Hope Challenge Devotional, suffering can actually lead to spiritual growth in a person, if he or she sees that God is there and leading them through the trial. This was made evident to him through the creation of this devotional, which he calls a "culmination of prayers, tears, lessons, and a refusal to give up." With the fifty days of devotional messages, Damian offers keen insight into ways the Bible shows us how to be uplifted in the midst of difficulties. Readers will see how we should view pain in ourselves and others, why it is important to learn from our mistakes, and the all-important understanding of why forgiveness is necessary, among other topics. Daily challenges are combined with the messages to prompt readers to take practical steps in putting theological understanding into their circumstances. Through this devotional, readers will find encouragement and renewal in their hope in God to help them overcome life's circumstances.