Reviewed by: Hope Bolinger, Professional Writing student at Taylor University, Upland, IN.

Introduction

Title: Resenting God: Escape the Downward Spiral of Blame

Author: John I. Snyder

Publisher: Abingdon Press

Publication Date: 2018

Format: Print book

Length: 240 pages

OVERVIEW

Most Christians, whether they realize it or not, harbor resentment against God. Perhaps God didn’t deliver on something they were certain He’d promised. Maybe they had a pastor who painted a distorted image of God in the likeness of a vending machine or a vengeful deity. No matter the case, Snyder discusses why Christians must address this resentment immediately. Untreated, it can lead to some of the most devastating effects on one’s spiritual life, often causing brothers and sisters to walk away from the faith.

Snyder never sugar coats anything, but his relatable prose keeps the reader from page 1 to 240. Tackling a difficult but necessary topic, he presents several biblical and personal examples that illustrate resentment and its reverses (thankfulness, for instance). One particular example that stands out is the survivors of the Golden Gate Bridge suicides.

At times, Synder’s prose runs dry or he repeats himself. But for the most part, he offers a fresh take on why many relationships with God and with others run stagnant—often it is because of bitterness and blame.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

4 out of 5

Suggested Audience

Christians who have hit a dead patch in their relationship with God, possibly due to bitterness, apathy, or resentment

Christian Impact

Culture and even members of the Christian community can paint a warped picture of God. When presented with this, or a distortion of our own creation, we can grow jaded. This book helps us to know how to realign our relationship and get back on the path of trusting in Jesus.

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