Above is a pic of my youngest daughter and me.
My Husband, My brother in Christ
What makes YOU happy?
As I read the preface of the book that the GirlTalk gals are going through about Elizabeth Prentiss, I reflected on the meaning of trials. I have often missed the point of them. Failing sometimes to see them as opportunites to practice Godliness and self-control, etc. Failing sometimes to realize that they are also times in which I can rest assured that I am being carried on the broad shoulders of my Shepherd. A time in which my love for my Lord increases ... as I, in my flesh, rightly decrease. But the sweet times in which the Lord strips me of my selfish, prideful, vain conceit... those are always times of harsh trial in which my dear friend Sue would say, "I am so jealous!"
Why? She would contort her cute little face and continue... "Because you are being carried by the Shepherd as I am having to walk."
Anyway, Sharon James writes of Elizabeth Prentiss in the preface to this book, "She believed that the trials of this life are designed to draw Christians closer to God and thus increase their love for Him. Surrender to the will of God is the path to true happiness."
Gee... what do you think the world would say about that? Gardiner Spring puts it this way: A Christian's "more happy moments are those in which he is enabled to lie abased before God and in which he has increasing desires to be kept humble to the end of his days."
Sharon James believes that the central theme of Elizabeth Prentiss' life and writings is captured in her best-known hymn, 'More Love to Thee, O Christ.' She believes the secondary, but pervasive theme in her life and writings is the notion of 'true womanhood'. She then points out (and remember, this is in the preface... which IS a must-read) that despite [Elizabeth Prentiss'] failings, she lived out the truth she taught- surrender to the will of God.
I especially echo Sharon James when she writes, as I have been exposed to her life and writings, I have been deeply convicted about my own need to surrender more fully to God, each day and in every detail of life. I have found her message of surrender to the will of God to be truly liberating. 'His service is perfect freedom.'
Sharon James' prayer and purpose for writing this wonderful book is so that the story of Elizabeth Prentiss will help many others find the same liberation.
A liberation, I might add, that the world WILL scoff at and label not as liberation but more likely (and sadly) as oppression. It is a far cry from the women's liberation of our day. But it is truly the only genuine liberation that brings true freedom.
Comments
Lisa, after reading these posts, you have me wanting to get a copy of this particular version of the book. I do have this book but mine is by George Lewis Prentiss. There are two short Preface's, one by Elisabeth Elliot, and the other by George himself.
I really like the quote by Sharon James.
I have about $20 to spend on a book, and I still can't figure out which one I want.
Posted by: Lynn | January 20, 2007 02:26 PM
Hey Lynn,
Get this one so you can join in on the book discussion... of course, I am saying that selfishly because I would just love it if you were apart of it.
It really is an excellent book and it is quite fun to join in on the discussion at Girl Talk. I especially like reading the comments the other participants make. It is so encourgeing and just another sweet way to fellowship with other women.
No pressure ... but you JUST HAVE TO GET THIS BOOK. :-)
(just kidding)
Posted by: lisa | January 20, 2007 07:04 PM