Those in the Omaha area should take note of Dr. D.A. Carson’s conference titled, “Making Sense of Suffering.” The conference will be held Saturday, October 4th at Omaha Bible Church. As usual the OBC conference cost is low—$15 per person and a max of $25 per family (comes with a catered lunch). The conference is structured around Carson’s excellent book on the topic, How Long, O Lord? Reflections on Suffering and Evil. We all need a clear and developed vision of God’s purposes behind our suffering, and this holds true for those not currently experiencing suffering. Register online here.

“Don’t Waste Your Suffering” message

On the topic of suffering, I recommend Pastor Jon Smith’s sermon from Covenant Life Church, “Don’t Waste Your Suffering” (8/24/08). Jon shares his compelling testimony as one who glorified God in the midst of overwhelming personal loss. This message will tug hard at your heart (and especially if you are a parent of young kids) so grab Kleenex while it downloads. Listen/download here.

God is kind to provide the Church with men like Carson, Smith, John Piper and David Powlison who can equip and prepare Her for future personal loss and suffering.