Endure Chapter 19: Hell

In 'The Problem of Pain', C.S. Lewis addresses the age-old question of how a good and all-powerful God can permit pain and suffering. Lewis argues that human suffering is a consequence of the existence of evil and free will, and that God uses suffering as a tool to draw us nearer to Him. He categorizes pain as both physical and emotional, serving as a warning signal that alerts us to potential harm and compels us to make necessary changes. Lewis also discusses the Fall of Man and how it led to chaos and disaster, emphasizing that God's goodness is not negated by suffering but rather evidenced through His merciful intervention. The book concludes by reassuring that God's wisdom is infinitely superior to ours and that pain eventually leads us back to a loving relationship with our Creator.

Ben Greenfield's "Fit Soul" delves into the concept of identifying one's unique purpose in life. The book guides readers through a process of self-discovery, helping them understand their innate talents and passions. It emphasizes the importance of aligning one's actions with their core values and purpose. The book encourages readers to find activities that bring them joy and fulfillment, leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life. Ultimately, "Fit Soul" aims to help individuals live a life that is both physically and spiritually fulfilling.

In this book, Randy Alcorn provides a detailed and scripturally grounded description of Heaven, challenging common misconceptions such as the idea of Heaven as a realm of disembodied spirits or eternal harp strumming. Instead, he portrays Heaven as a vibrant, physical New Earth where real people with real bodies enjoy close relationships with God and each other, engaging in activities like eating, drinking, working, playing, traveling, and worshiping. The book emphasizes the continuity between earthly life and the new creation, highlighting the glorious possibilities of worshiping God through an eternity of exercising dominion over a renewed creation.

In 'Endure,' Alex Hutchinson delves into the science and psychology of human endurance, highlighting the complex interplay between the mind and body. The book discusses various physical limits such as pain, muscle, oxygen, heat, thirst, and fuel, and how these are influenced by psychological factors. Hutchinson draws on his experiences as a distance runner and his access to Nike’s secret training project to break the two-hour marathon barrier, providing insights into how individuals can push beyond their perceived limits. The book blends cutting-edge science with gripping storytelling, making it a comprehensive and engaging read on the elastic limits of human performance.