Explanations are a substitute for trust.

A religious approach to marriage is the idea that if we work hard enough at something, we can earn the acceptance, approval, and life we think we deserve because of our obedient performance.

People who haven't experienced major setbacks sometimes feel that their hurts are somehow less legitimate or real.

Spiritual growth is marked by a growing realization of just how much grace you need.

I agree we have enough books that attempt to explain why God allows suffering, presumably in a way that lets God off the hook. And while much smarter men than I have constructed elaborate systems in this pursuit, they are by definition exercises in speculation.

Our minds are affected by sin. Our hearts are affected by sin. Our wills are affected by sin. Our bodies are affected by sin.

Legalism breeds a sense of entitlement that turns us into complainers.