Joyful Surrender by Elisabeth Elliot

Book:  Joyful Surrender - 7 Disciplines for the Believer's Life

Author:  Elisabeth Elliot

Publisher:  Revell

  157  pages, paperback


There is nothing like sitting down to quietly read one of Elisabeth Elliot's books.  Her gentle wisdom is encouraging and inspiring.   In this book she compares, at times, some modern questions of living to what is proper from an earlier generation. 

There are 14 chapters. She shares from her own life, and from those of others, to carefully explain each concept regarding disciplines in our lives.  Some of these chapters cover the subjects of mind, place, possessions, and work.

I will share a quote from the book, on page 108:

"We should be thankful.  Thanksgiving requires the recognition of the Source.  It implies contentment with what is given, not complaint about what is not given."

A negative aspect of the book, for me, is that many of the Bible quotes are from sources other than the KJV.  

However, in all of her writing, she strives to lead us to a good and close walk with the Lord. She encourages (and teaches) us to have joy and peace in God.


* Disclosure - This book was provided for review purposes. *

Catching Faith 2 - The Homecoming DVD review

Movie (DVD) - Catching Faith 2 - The Homecoming.

Running Time - Approx. 95 minutes.

This is a dove approved movie, recommended for ages 12 and up.

The Taylor family is facing a few different struggles.   Mrs. Taylor is a career - type mother who is focused on trying to do everything, including taking care of her Mother (who is suffering from Alzheimer's disease). Mr. Taylor is a kind man who is patient and is very involved in the daily home life.  Their two grown children come home with different news. The son was injured and needs a new direction in his life.  The daughter is engaged and is excited about her upcoming wedding.

 Everyone has a cell phone, and they live a very modern life. The family appears to have a great deal of money and seem to focus on themselves quite a bit.

The movie has many light moments.  They were excited about their goals and plans and seemed to enjoy what they had. There were some occasional bits of good advice coming from some of the characters.

However, I did not particularly enjoy the movie. It is not something I would watch again.  There were moments where the events seemed to be predictable. I also did not like Mrs. Taylor's Bible study group.  The girls seemed to be shallow and silly.  I thought they were disrespectful when talking about Scripture.  The group leader, however, presented herself with maturity and respect, which was good.

Special features include:  A discussion guide and an activity. 




*Disclosure - This item was provided for review purposes.*