Faithful Women and Their Extraordinary God

 by Noël Piper
“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him” Ps. 34:8

Noël Piper takes us from 1710 Connecticut to modern day Congo through the looking glass of God’s work.  This book is a collection of five short biographies and Piper’s reflection on what God has taught her through them.  By reading about God’s work in others’ live we can see that He is faithful and powerful, He answers prayers and that following His call will be the greatest and most painful thing you will ever do.  These ordinary women had faith and through that faith God changed the world.

Through Sarah Edwards’ hard work, Lilias Trotter’s giving precedence to God over her gifts, Gladys Aylward’s love for China, Esther Ahn Kim’s determination in the face of death, and Helen Roseveare’s imperfections, we see humble obedience, prejudices overcome, prayers answered, and people coming to love Christ.  These are not stories of perfection or of strength, but of real women, their struggles, their faith, and, truly, stories of their God.

I appreciate that Piper included both single and married women, both those sent far from home and those working in their native land, and women of different nationalities reminding us that God isn’t served in just one way or by only certain types of people.  These women knew through hardship what prosperity can lure us to forget -- our calling to share in Christ’s sufferings.  (Phil 3:7-11)  Friends, be encouraged as you read this book, be enlivened, and be reminded of your calling in the Lord’s army.  Remember that wherever you are sent God has gone before you, it is His work, and that you do it in His power.  Happy reading!