Sometimes Work Hurts We might be discouraged, disillusioned, or devastated by our work. We might experience trauma or harassment on the job, or we may have experienced work loss by getting fired. If you've been beat up, burnt out, or brokenhearted by work, you're not alone. The Bible tells us that work will be difficult-filled with thorns and thistles-but no one prepares us for the pain we experience on the job. In When Work Hurts Meryl Herr
- Explores the emotional, relational, and vocational pain that work causes and helps us rebound and build resilience so we can fully participate with God in his mission, - Walks through the biblical story of the Israelites' journey of exile, return, and rebuilding as a framework for spiritual and practical resources for navigating work loss, and - Shows that we can take comfort in the fact that God is at work in the midst of our work to bring healing and hope. "This book is a timely, uplifting resource that speaks to both the heart and mind. With a deep understanding of Scripture and descriptions about her journey, Herr expertly helps readers who want to integrate faith into their professional lives and navigate workplace challenges to reclaim a sense of purpose and hope." – Library Journal Review, February 2025
"Work is a gift from God, but what do we do when it is a burden? This is an essential read for anyone who has experienced deep disillusionment in the workplace. As someone who coaches leaders of color in challenging and often painful environments, I believe this powerful resource will provide much-needed guidance to those navigating difficult workplaces, offering support and insight for those in need of a coach."
Sandra Maria Van Opstal, author, pastor, and executive director of Chasing Justice
"For too many people, work is more of a Genesis 3 rather than Genesis 1 reality. Meryl Herr knows that personally, and she brings honesty and deep compassion to this important book. Packed with stories of 'work hurt,' this highly accessible volumeoffers at least three beautiful gifts. First, no one who's dealing with disappointments, oppression, confusion, or toxicity at work will feel alone again after reading it. Second, it gives language to help all of us articulate the many ways work goes sideways-which is necessary if the 'faith and work' movement is to be grounded in reality, not romanticism. Third, and most important, it plumbs the wisdom of the Bible's historical books to aid contemporary Christians in pursuing everyday faithfulness amidst the challenges of the modern workaday world."
Amy L. Sherman, author of Agents of Flourishing
"In a broken world, we all experience hurt from our work. But there can be times when pain experienced in the workplace is emotionally devastating. In When Work Hurts, Herr is an empathetic guide, helping those who have been wounded at workfeel seen and heard. Written from her own experience of pain in the workplace, her journey towards experiencing a renewed sense of calling, and grounded in Scripture, Herr gives gentle and wise prompts to begin the healing process, so we might reclaim a sense of hope in God's purposes for our work."
