Separation, soul ache and distance from God are to be expected in the course of the Christian life. Lewis B. Smedes offers a voice of hope for hard times that provides faith-filled consolation for troubled souls. This classic is introduced to us by Rob Parsons and gives great help in negotiating the separation and life apart from God. Its core question is, 'Can we love God when life does not seem to be going well for us?' There are no cheap truisms or clichés here but rather a poignant scriptural writing that displays pure grace. Smedes writes a classic and Parsons has re-popularised this with warmth and with helpful commentary. There is hope abounding here. It is deep and spacious, yet never condescending or patronising in its accessibility! Smedes paints the possibility of joy, believing with conditionality that this is possible for those who have travelled pathways of pain. Pastoral, loving and wise!