The Dark Night: A Gift of God

Many Christians enter a “dark night” at some point during their lives, a period when they feel abandoned by God and experience a dryness in their spiritual lives. Daniel P. Schrock demystifies this quite common phenomenon, which is often confused with depression. He roots the dark night experience in Scripture, but also explores how it can express itself in one’s vocation, marriage and family life, and even in the life of a congregation. In his unique approach, Schrock connects the dark night with Christian discipleship and God’s mission of creating shalom. The dark night functions a bit like a second conversion, he writes. It strengthens faith, deepens friendship with God, and propels believers into countercultural mission. The dark night is ultimately a gift from God.