Discipline: The Glad Surrender

 Title: Discipline: The Glad Surrender

Author: Elisabeth Elliot

Publisher: Revell

Genre: Christian Nonfiction/Christian Living

Source: My personal library

My review:

 I put this book on my list to read for this year because my word of the year is "Surrender." I like reading books on the word that I feel the Lord has laid on my heart. I have heard a lot about Elisabeth Elliot and I was not disappointed. Mrs. Elliot has a lot of wisdom to share.

"God calls me. In a deeper sense than any other species of earthbound creature, I am called. And in a deeper sense I am free, for I can ignore the call."

Told in a conversation style of writing, Mrs. Elliot begins the book by stating that we are created, cared for, and called. She then goes on to answering God's call. In this way, she is setting the stage to talk about discipline, not just surrender, but the discipline of the body, mind, our work, feelings, and so much more. Each chapter builds on the previous chapter until the final chapter where Mrs. Elliot wraps everything up.

"Discipline is the believer's answer to God's call."

Mrs. Elliot weaves stories from her life into this narrative on surrender. She incorporates Bible verses and relevant stories from the Bible as well. Discipline is a very easy read, but do not let that fool you, this is a very deep and practical book-like the lady herself. There are so many great nuggets tucked into this small book (150 pages of text). Such a profound and straightforward book.

"When the will of man acts in accord with the will of God, that is faith. When the will of man acts in opposition to the will of God, that is unbelief."

Discipline: The Glad Surrender is an excellent book to read if you want to be challenged in your faith and grow in your walk with the Lord. If you are looking for an easy religion and easy tasks, look elsewhere. If you are not willing to grow and surrender, then this is not the book for you. While Mrs. Elliot has passed on, these words will live on, and her legacy will impact many generations to come.

 "There is always enough time to do the will of God." 

4/5 ★★★★

Synopsis: 

In our age of instant gratification and if-it-feels-good-do-it attitudes, self-discipline is hardly a popular notion. Former missionary and beloved author Elisabeth Elliot offers her understanding of discipline and its value for modern people.

Now repackaged for the next generation of Christians, Discipline: The Glad Surrender shows readers how to

-discipline the mind, body, possessions, time, and feelings
-overcome anxiety
-change poor habits and attitudes
-trust God in times of trial and hardship
-let Christ have control in all areas of life

Elliot masterfully and gently takes readers through Scripture, personal stories, and lovely observations of the world around her in order to help them discover the understanding that our fulfillment as human beings depends on our answer to God's call to obedience.