Great Books for Christian Young Women
Hello friends! For today’s post, I’d like to share with you some book recommendations. As Christian young ladies, we want to live our lives God’s way, and He has a lot to say in His Word about His design and plan for us. At the same time, we’re frequently bombarded with the world’s view of womanhood. And that is completely different from what God says! I’ve often found encouragement by reading books written by Christian women who believe God’s word, who study and proclaim His truth. It can also be so inspiring to read the biographies of women who chose to follow God with all their hearts instead of living for self. Below could make a great summer reading list… 😉
Just because I recommend a book by an author doesn’t mean that I endorse all of the author’s views in the book, or everything he or she has written. I try to be discerning in what I read and recommend to you; but remember to always examine everything through the lens of God’s word! 😊
All Glorious Within by Susannah Rose Dorfsmith. This book was such an encouragement to me when I was in my mid-to-late teen years! Susannah addresses many of the struggles girls face, such as surrender, insecurity, shyness, the future, and contentment, with short stories, devotionals, and poems. Be encouraged to know you are not alone in following Jesus!
Beautiful Girlhood by Mabel Hale. Mrs. Hale wrote this book for her daughter in the early 20th century, but the message is still so true today! I’d say this book would be perfect for young ladies from ages 10-15; my mom read it with me when I was about 15, I think. Beautiful Girlhood contains solid Biblical truth and common sense writing on topics like character, obedience, beauty, ideals, friendships, home life, and consecration.
Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss. This Christian classic is so good! I’d recommend it for ages 16 on. As you follow “Katy” in her diary from age 16 to being a wife and mother, you’ll be amazed to see yourself in these pages. I realized that “Katy” represents any Christian woman attempting to “step heavenward.” A bestseller when Mrs. Prentiss first wrote it, Stepping Heavenward is truly timeless.
The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom. I know—another classic! You’ve probably heard how Corrie and her family hid Jews during WWII, and later ended up in Ravensbruck concentration camp. Every time after I read this book, I finish with tears in my eyes but encouraged faith in my heart. You’ll be in awe of Corrie’s God after reading this one. He can truly give victory in the darkest of circumstances. (If you’re a very young lady, it would be a good idea to have your mom check this book for you first!)
In My Father’s House by Corrie ten Boom. This book tells the story of Corrie’s life leading up to The Hiding Place. You’ll get a beautiful picture of a Christ-centered family, and be encouraged to live your single years in service to Jesus and others!
The Triumph of John and Betty Stam by Geraldine Taylor. Reading about Betty Stam’s surrender to Jesus leaves me asking, “Am I this surrendered? Am I willing to do His will at any cost?” Betty wrote, “Lord, I give up all my own plans and purposes, all my own desires and hopes, and accept Thy will for my life. I give myself, my life, my all utterly to Thee to be Thine forever. Fill me and seal me with Thy Holy Spirit. Use me as Thou wilt. Send me where Thou wilt. Work out Thy whole will in my life at any cost, now and forever.”
Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose. One of my favorites, this is the story of a young missionary woman who become a prisoner of war during WWII. Though she faced the loss of everything she held dear, Darlene clung close to Jesus and found joy in Him. Riveting and exciting, this book will also challenge you to deeper faith.
If I Perish by Esther Ahn Kim. Esther stood alone against pagan idolatry, and ended up in a brutal prison for her commitment to Christ. But His grace shone through her, and she won many fellow prisoners to faith in Him. I would recommend this book for adults.
These are just some of the books that have encouraged and challenged me as a Christian young woman. Hopefully, they will encourage you also that it is so worth it to live for Jesus. There is always victory in Him! If there are any books that have been a blessing to you, I’d love to hear what they are in the comments below. 😊
