John Bunyan, William Cowper, and David Brainerd suffered
in the midst of their kingdom labors. For Bunyan it was prison
and danger for preaching the gospel. For Cowper it was
life-long depression and suicidal darkness. For Brainerd it
was tuberculosis and the “howling darkness” of American
forests. In these three biographies, John Piper explains how
their steadfastness through trial sweetened and intensified the
song of their faith. The stories of how they suffered, how they
endured, and how their affliction bore fruit will ignite radical
Christian living, God-centered worship, and Christ-exalting
mission. Consider their stories and be encouraged that no
labor and no suffering in the path of Christian obedience is
ever in vain. As Cowper wrote, "Behind a frowning
providence God hides a smiling face." (175 Pages)
Table of Contents:
Preface
Acknowledgments
Introduction: Where the
Fruit of Affliction Grows
Chapter 1
"To Live Upon God That
Is Invisible" Suffering and Service in the
Life of John Bunyan
Chapter 2
"The Clouds Ye So Much
Dread Are Big with Mercy"
Insanity and Spiritual
Songs in the Life of William Cowper
Chapter 3
"Oh, That I Might Never
Loiter on My Heavenly Journey!"
Misery and Mission in
the Life of David Brainerd
Conclusion: A Plea to
Follow in the Fruitful Wake of the Suffering
Swans
A Note On Resources:
Desiring God Ministries
Index of Scriptures
Index of Persons
Index of Subjects
