Tested by Fire

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John Bunyan endured long-term imprisonment, choosing to rely on God rather than compromise his faith for freedom. William Cowper battled debilitating depression, yet his poetry revealed God's sustaining character and deepened his worship. David Brainerd, driven by a desire to honor God, persevered through the loneliness of wilderness ministry and the pain of tuberculosis, leaving a lasting impact on world missions. When Augustine passed on church leadership in A.D. 426, his successor felt inadequate, fearing the loss of Augustine's powerful voice. However, for 1,600 years, Augustine's influence has persisted, as have the legacies of those who followed him. Their lives inspire believers across generations, urging a deeper passion for God. In this remarkable exploration, John Piper invites readers into the experiences of Bunyan, Cowper, and Brainerd, illustrating how faith is strengthened through trials, fostering a greater hunger for God. The perseverance of these faithful servants exemplifies the vital fruit that affliction can yield in our lives. Their enduring faith serves as a reminder that "behind a frowning providence, God hides a smiling face," inspiring a similar passion for God's supremacy in our lives.