If you’re interested in reading about a devoted and influential Christian who was not a pastor or missionary, then perhaps you should read this biography of Frances Ridley Havergal. She was a poet, hymnist, and devotional writer whose diverse works became widely known and loved throughout much of the Church. But even in her personal life, she cultivated a powerful love for God which led her to work constantly for the good of the Church and the salvation of the lost.
This biography of her life is written by Pamela Bugden. Bugden has done much work on the upcoming Complete Works of Frances Ridley Havergal, and so she was well-suited to write this biography. She draws on a variety of sources, including the personal letters of Havergal and of those who knew her. And since authors cannot be known apart from their writings, Bugden includes many examples of Havergal’s poetry, songs, and devotional writings. (For a greater collection of her works, see Valuable Selections from the Writings of Frances Ridley Havergal.)
Overall, this is an impressive and enjoyable biography. It comes highly recommended, not just because of the great grace working in the life of Havergal, but also because of her current relatively unknown status. Though she was a familiar name in her own time, most Christians today know nothing of her. This is a mistake that needs to be corrected, and this biography is a step in that direction.
176 pages.
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