Sin does not deliver on its promises. Rather, it brings only pain and misery with its rebellion. Sin s pleasure is only for a moment, but its painful consequences may last a lifetime. So where do we turn when we have fallen for the deceptive power of sin and are left reeling in the wake of the havoc it causes? In The Discipline of Mercy, pastors and counselors Eric Kress and Paul Tautges take us deep into the book of Lamentations where we are exhorted to place our hope fully in the faithful mercy and loyal love of a gracious God no matter the extent of our suffering. God alone is sovereign...

Does it ever seem like God is not listening? Scripture offers six clear reasons why your prayers may go unanswered. Learn what they are, and what you can do about it. -------------------------------- Sometimes we re tempted to wonder if God can hear us. After months or even years of praying over a particular person or situation, we look for evidence that God is getting our message or even paying attention, and we can't find much. Why is that? Why do the heavens sometimes seem as hard and reflective as brass? Doesn t God love us and care for us? Isn t he all-powerful? What s going on? In Brass...

Until the end of time, when the curse of sin is finally removed, suffering will be a large part of the human experience and a large part of that suffering will be walking through the painful reality of death. 'Death, ' writes Paul Tautges, 'provides a natural opportunity not only for ministry to others, but also for personal growth in ministers.' Those who shepherd others through the pain and loss that accompanies death should seek to offer wise and biblical counsel on these precious and painful occasions.

This book is a treasure chest of pastoral theology that will equip you to...