When we think about the gods of most religions, certain attributes echo as truth to their faithful followers. There is no doubt that the followers of most religions of the world would deem their gods wise, powerful, omniscient, just, etc, etc.
However, there is undoubtedly one attribute of Yahweh, the One True God of the Bible, that stands out as the trait that no other “god” possesses: Yahweh is a Loving God. Not only does He have love for His children, He IS Love. (1 John 4:7-8) And we know of the truth and depth of His love because He chose to abandon His glory and come to earth to dwell among us, live a perfect life and die as the ultimate substitutionary sacrifice for our sin. (John 3:16)
It’s the gospel story we celebrate each year at Christmas and the Redemption story we sing about on Easter.
God is also the only personal God – another trait that no other god offers. It is indeed Yahweh’s greatest desire to reveal Himself to His children, and He longs for close communion with those who received His Son as their Lord and Savior.
A couple of weeks ago, I was introduced to the life and work of Elisabeth Elliot. Elisabeth was a bestselling author, radio host, and speaker and the wife of Jim Elliot, who, together with Nate Saint, was one of five missionaries speared to death in 1956 while attempting to make contact with members of the Auca/Waodani tribe in the Amazonian jungle of Ecuador.
Honoring a Legacy
Elisabeth died in 2015 but left behind an incredible legacy with her story of steadfast faith through painful loss and countless trials. Her story shows a life committed to the truth of the Bible and eager to share God’s redeeming love and faithfulness.
In 2020, the Elisabeth Elliot foundation was founded to serve “as an evolving repository of her work; a resourceful collection of her writings and teachings, and a place to honor Elliot’s legacy—the remarkable life of a woman mastered by God and wholeheartedly devoted to the service and glorification of Jesus.”
I interviewed Kathy Reeg, president of the Elisabeth Elliot foundation, for my podcast and YouTube channels and was blessed by the beautiful stories Kathy shared about Elisabeth, including the surprising discovery of a never-before-published manuscript among Elisabeth’s belonging. The manuscript was published in September 2022 under the title: “Heart of God,” and it is formatted as a 31-day devotional with beautiful insights into the heart of the One True God.
Enjoy our conversation! It was filled with insights about Elisabeth’s lifelong commitment to steadfast faith and obedience and it will surely bless you this Christmas season.
PS: The Elisabeth Elliot Foundation is giving one of my followers a copy of Heart of God. Share this post or interview on social media, and tag me for a chance to win a copy.
Listen to the podcast episode below. If you are reading this in your email, please CLICK HERE to listen to the podcast.
Click HERE to learn more about Heart of God and where to purchase it.
Click HERE to learn more about the Elisabeth Elliot foundation.
This interview is also available on Patricia’s YouTube Channel. Click HERE to watch it.
What a wonderful interview! I’ve always seen quotes by Elisabeth Elliot but never knew her story. I’ve just added her book to my list to acquire.