This was a beautiful commentary and application of one verse—Isaiah 57:15. While it is a shorter read, it offered a great depth of content. In particular, I personally benefitted immensely from the final chapter on Dying. As a chaplain in a healthcare center, the application of this chapter alone was worth the read. Furthermore, Ortlund masterfully pulls in other theologians, authors, and quotes adding to the richness of this book.

I always am awed by how much can be gleaned from just one verse of Scripture. Yet, Ortlund applies the prophet's words of comfort to those who feel betrayed or lonely or trapped in their sin or even, as mentioned above, fearful of death. Even if you don't find yourself in one of those particular pits of life, though, there is value to anyone facing a rock bottom moment through the hope of the gospel application throughout. Each chapter conclusion offers discussion or reflection questions to allow the text to anchor more deeply in.

Unquestionably, Ortlund navigates through some tough waters, but I think he does a wonderful job applying the gospel truth and hope to those who are truly hurting. So, while the length of the book makes it accessible, the content does take some time to digest fully. Even then, you may find yourself wrestling with his perspective. Notably, Ortlund talks about death as a gift and a last act of obedience to the Lord. If you are reading through some of these chapters truly at rock bottom, the perspective shifts offered may be jarring at first, but they are there to offer an opportunity not to simply dwell on rock bottom but on the God who is with us at rock bottom.

I found this book to immensely hopeful and plan to share it with others. I am deeply grateful to NetGalley and Crossway Books for providing me with this Advanced Readers' Copy in exchange for my honest review.

The content was okay, but something about the tone felt off for a book about the struggles of life. There are other books on the subject that I much prefer.

(I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)

This is a short and sweet resource for Christians who are hurting. Specifically, this book addresses Christians who feel betrayed, lonely, trapped in sin, or fearful of death. Ortlund offers encouragement with the love and truth of Christ.

I feel that this book does not have as much to say to Christians whose “rock bottom” comes from other circumstances or a feeling of God’s distance. While Ortlund still has some general encouragement for them, I found some phrases off-putting. For example (and please remember, I received an advanced review copy, so the wording may be different in the published version): “Thank you, Lord, for trouble” and “[in painful circumstances], Jesus surprises us with everything we really wanted all along.” For someone whose child has died, someone facing chronic health issues, or someone whose unanswered prayers leave them feeling forsaken by God, those words feel like cold comfort to me. But I’m not as spiritually mature as Ortlund’s dad, who could suffer agonizing pain and say “‘it’s a gift.’”

Overall, however, I was moved by Ortlund’s gentleness and thoughtfulness in this book as he speaks honestly to Christians in pain. The focus on Isaiah 57:15, which is analyzed insightfully and supported with other scripture, is unique and encouraging. There are helpful questions to ponder at the end of each chapter. Finally, the book concludes with a beautiful and powerful depiction of Heaven.

I recommend this resource to Christians, especially to those who feel betrayed, lonely, trapped in sin, or fearful of death, and who need some loving encouragement in Christ.

Thank you to NetGalley and Crossway for the free eARC! I post this review with my honest opinions. This review is cross-posted on Goodreads (see link); it will also be posted on Instagram and Amazon on the book’s publication date.