Joyful Surrender by Elisabeth Elliot

This is a reprint of Elliot's 1982 book, reprinted in 2006 as Discipline. Discipline is our answer to God's call, she says. It is how we fulfill God's purpose for us. God provides the means but we must choose to do it.

Reading Elliot's book is like sitting across from someone while enjoying a cup of coffee. Her style of writing is very free flowing and informal. At times she writes about her life as a disciple. At other times she is clearly teaching from the Bible. She shares her thoughts on a number of topics, such as fasting, sexual control, thinking, honoring, time, possessions, work, emotions, and more. She essentially writes about one's attitude toward those topics rather than how we are to be living them to the glory of God. There are no practical steps nor particular strategy included. I have to admit I skimmed over some paragraphs.

Some young modern readers may be unfamiliar with some of the concepts Elliot relates. Under the topic of honoring, for example, Elliot writes that the wife's submissiveness to her husband is the appropriate way to honor him. Elliot also challenges readers to be at the Lord's disposal, to realize we are God's servants. Those are not exactly popular teachings today.

Elliot does have a way with words. In her chapter on time she writes, “There is always enough time to do the will of God.” (1415/2348)

This would be a good book for readers who are looking for the thoughts of a Christian reflecting on a lifetime of being a disciple. You will not find specific information on the seven disciplines.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Elisabeth Elliot (1926-2015) was one of the most perceptive and popular Christian writers of the last century. She was the author of more than twenty books and offered guidance and encouragement to millions of readers.

Revell, 176 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher.. My comments are an independent and honest review.