The Furnace Of Affliction

Focusing on the intersection of Christianity and politics in the American penitentiary system, Jennifer Graber explores evangelical Protestants' efforts to make religion central to emerging practices and philosophies of prison discipline from the 1790s through the 1850s. Initially, state and prison officials welcomed Protestant reformers' and ministers' recommendations, particularly their ideas about inmate suffering and redemption. Over time, however, officials proved less receptive to the reformers' activities, and inmates also opposed them. Ensuing debates between reformers, officials, and inmates revealed deep disagreements over religion's place in prisons and in the wider public sphere as the separation of church and state took hold and the nation's religious environment became more diverse and competitive. Examining the innovative New York prison system, Graber shows how Protestant reformers failed to realize their dreams of large-scale inmate conversion or of prisons that reflected their values. To keep a foothold in prisons, reformers were forced to relinquish their Protestant terminology and practices and instead to adopt secular ideas about American morals, virtues, and citizenship. Graber argues that, by revising their original understanding of prisoner suffering and redemption, reformers learned to see inmates' afflictions not as a necessary prelude to a sinner's experience of grace but as the required punishment for breaking the new nation's laws.

The astonishing, Job-like story of how an existence filled with loss, suffering, questioning, and anger became a life filled with shocking and incomprehensible peace and joy. Vaneetha Risner contracted polio as an infant, was misdiagnosed, and lived with widespread paralysis. She lived in and out of the hospital for ten years and, after each stay, would return to a life filled with bullying. When she became a Christian, though, she thought things would get easier, and they did: carefree college days, a dream job in Boston, and an MBA from Stanford where she met and married a classmate. But life unraveled. Again. She had four miscarriages. Her son died because of a doctor's mistake. And Vaneetha was diagnosed with post-polio syndrome, meaning she would likely become a quadriplegic. And then her husband betrayed her and moved out, leaving her to raise two adolescent daughters alone. This was not the abundant life she thought God had promised her. But, as Vaneetha discovered, everything she experienced was designed to draw her closer to Christ as she discovered "that intimacy with God in suffering can be breathtakingly beautiful."

Are you hurting or suffering in silence? God has a purpose in your pain. Many people in general, and even Christians admittedly avoid the subject of pain almost as much as they avoid pain itself. But once you understand the purpose of pain, you can make the most of the painful experiences in life. In The Furnace of Affliction: How God Uses Our Pain and Suffering for His Purpose, Horace Williams, Jr. tackles this challenging topic. Based on the Word of God, insights from other leaders, and his studies, he addresses several key points, including: How pain develops our faith How pain determines our path How pain delivers comfort, joy, and peace And how pain deepens our commitment to God. Packed with personal stories and scripture to support his points, Horace shares his insights on the problem of pain. His candid and straightforward communication style engages the reader as he addresses this critical topic for the body of Christ today.

Pain is inevitable. But did you know there is a divine purpose for suffering? The Furnace of Affliction will help those who are struggling with the "why" of pain find hope. This book will encourage readers to look to God, who is bigger and greater than any affliction. Horace Williams, Jr., a stroke survivor, well-acquainted with pain, The Furnace of Affliction blends real stories, practical advice, and biblical truth. Together these elements create a salve that is intended to change how you view pain and re-evaluate your response to it.

In her educational and insightful book,The Furnace of Affliction: Finding and Overcoming the Hidden Sin in Our LivesBeth Batzel explains how sin, or 'hidden dirt,' invades our lives on a daily basis. Even though we have forgiveness, our 'old man,' or sin nature, often tempts us to commit sinful acts, even when we know it's wrong. But with the advice insideThe Furnace of Afflictionand the Holy Spirit's leading, you'll learn how to use God's Word and his promises to strengthen your resolve and faith. Within these pages you'll discover God's prophecies and covenants with man, and you'll find out how to be cleansed, refined, and prepared in order to keep you spiritually purified. Once you've broken free from the chains of sin, you'll be able to escapeThe Furnace of Affliction.

Father, I believe you instructed me to write this book, not for my glory, (as I have none, except that which you give to me), but for your Glory. Lord that it will teach us that it is not what we think or feel that others think of us, but Lord, that is how we should react to the situations around us, be they real or imagined. That we should have our minds renewed and walk in YOUR SPIRIT at all times. Father, that we should stay filled with your Spirit and always act and react in love to others. I pray everything written in this book will be a blessing to all who read it. To strengthen their faith and draw them closer to you. All the glory, honor and praise goes to you Father. You are the LORD OF LORDS, KING OF KINGS, my savior, the Lord of my life, my soon coming Kind and Eternal Bridegroom, I love you, honor you, adore you and I thank you, Jesus, for loving me, even when I was unlovable. And I thank you for choosing me to be yours. Amen.

Everyone faces trials. Whether it's losing a job or losing a loved one, when trials hit they often make us wonder Whywhy this? Why now? Why me? Packed with easy-to-understand explanations, Bible verses, and biblical encouragement, this book shows how God uses trials of life to refine us, strengthen us, and transforms us into His glorious image. Find out how to stand on God's promises and be encouraged during tough times.