IN TROUBLE AND IN JOY

ISBN: 9780852345849
Author: Sharon James

In this book you will meet four remarkable women:

Margaret Baxter (1639–1681), a rebellious, glamorous teenager who ended up falling in love with and marrying a Puritan minister twice her age.

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) whose spiritual experience during a time of revival has gone down as one of the most profound in church history.

Anne Steele (1717–1778) who refused several offers of marriage, preferring to maintain her independence, and who had a significant ministry writing hymns.

Frances Ridley Havergal (1836–1879) who was one of the most well known Christians in Victorian England because of her prolific writing of books, hymns, tracts and devotionals. Her hymn ‘Take my life and let it be’ is one of the most popular of all time.

Sharon James has written biographies that hold some surprises and a great deal of inspiration. These four women knew that contentment and happiness did not depend on good health, a fulfilling job, or a happy family life. Through a selection of extracts from their writings (journal entries, resolutions, letters, poems, hymns) you too can discover first-hand the heart for God that captivated these women and enabled them to live for his glory, whatever the cost.

Sharon James has degrees in history (Cambridge University) and theology (Toronto Baptist Seminary). She has taught history in the UK and Malawi and has written articles for a number of Christian journals. Her husband Bill is pastor of Emmanuel Evangelical Church, Leamington Spa, and they have two children.