©2008, P&R Publishing, 158 pp. in paperback

A diligent worker loses his job. A retiree dies shortly after retiring to enjoy his grandchildren. Covenant children go off to college and reject the faith. An unexpected illness slowly drains much of a lifetime of savings. Many similar illustrations could be given that can cause Christians to verbalize this book’s title. Early in this work, the author notes that numerous individuals in scripture had the opportunity to make the same cry. Think of barren Rachel. Look at Job’s sudden losses. We should not forget unloved Leah, either.  But the book is not a study of people such as these in scripture who had opportunity to say “It’s not fair.” Instead the author turns our attention to the character of God. This is important as God is the One blamed for unfair providences.

Chapters are devoted to God’s wisdom, love, justice, and sovereignty. Concluding chapters provide additional help for Christians who are tempted to question the fairness of the outworking of God’s plan in their lives.

In each chapter the authors list many appropriate and helpful texts that point to the attribute of God that is the focus of the chapter. They also specifically show how particular passages prick and deflate the “It’s Not Fair” balloon.  A hymn is included at the end of each chapter, as are questions for review and discussion.

In this thoughtful, well-planned book, the reader benefits from the godly wisdom of an experienced counselor, and is also provided with scripture and songs that can be turned to or memorized to help thwart temptation.

The chapters are brief and God-centered. Illustrations are fitting, not fluff. A seasoned Christian as well as a babe in Christ can read these well-written chapters with much profit. The final chapter shows how the truths presented can be helpfully applied in an actual situation.

As I write this review the economy remains very uncertain and continues to have many effects in individual lives. This book has arrived on the scene at a providential, opportune time. Readers can find much comfort in these pages even when they are reminded of that which they already know. Readers will likely find many people into whose hands this book can be profitably placed.

In troubled times it is hard to live out the fact that God is sovereign and does all things well. This short book reminds us how faithful trust in a sovereign God is always the scriptural way to live no matter what our circumstances are.

©2009 Byron Snapp, Hampton, Virginia