©2002, Fleming H. Revell , 244 pages in paperback

God has providentially given Elisabeth Elliot a life of twists and turns.  She was born in Belgium, the daughter of missionaries.  She grew up in the United States during the Depression and experienced the physical poverty of that time.  She has been widowed twice.  Her first husband, Jim Elliot, was killed by the Auca Indians in Ecquador where the family was serving as missionaries.  Her second husband, Addison Leitch, died after a struggle with cancer.  In the midst of these turmoils, her feet have remained firmly planted on the straight way that leads to heaven.

The articles in this book originally appeared in her newsletter. Over and over, she reflects on God’s great grace and the security He provides His people.

Articles are arranged topically with such titles as “Do the Next Thing”, “Finding Contentment”, and “Joy and Sorrow”.  The author reveals that she, too, struggles with many of the same fears and temptations that her readers face.  She applies Christianity to all of life, even the seemingly mundane parts.  Her writings are marked by practicality, God-centeredness, honesty, and insightfulness.

In the opening section entitled “His Everlasting Arms”, the author provides several chapters on the rigors and rightness of walking by faith. Reflecting on God’s promise to Asher (Deut. 33:25) to provide iron shoes, she illustrates how God gives strength to endure difficult trials.  She relates God’s personal providences during the deaths of her first two husbands.  In “Called To Act” she focuses on the importance of obedient activity in the face of grief and terror. She turns to scripture as she uses Ezekiel’s response to his wife’s death (Ezekiel 24) and Paul’s preparation for a shipwreck (Acts 27). God, also, calls His people to faithfulness in the ordinary tasks of life.  Perhaps, it is here that many Christians find it hardest to live by faith.

A section is devoted to singleness and marriage.  How does one handle the frustration of being single when marriage is a daily desire?  How does one calmly, yet biblically, counsel a young daughter who is beginning to show an interest in boys?  How can one be a good mother-in-law?  How do parents train their children to be obedient?  These and similar topics are addressed with great, scriptural wisdom.

In a fallen world, even our seemingly mundane actions and thoughts must be taken captive for Christ.  Often the Christian walk is one of struggle.  Elisabeth Elliot challenges us to persevere and be victorious.  She shows us how scripture can be applied in a beneficial way for God’s glory and our good.  

Review ©2006 Byron Snapp, Hampton, Virginia