Remembering Elisabeth Elliot: A Legacy of Faith and Sacrificial Love

Peaches in Paradise: Remembering Elisabeth Elliot

On the morning of June 15, 2015, at 6:15 AM, the world lost an extraordinary woman. Elisabeth Elliot, known for her directness and unwavering faith, passed away. Her life left an indelible mark on those who knew her, myself included.

Elisabeth Elliot was not one to beat around the bush. She spoke with clarity and grace, never sugarcoating the truth. Her words were like a refreshing breeze in a world cluttered with sentimentality and self-pity. She reminded us to straighten our backs, put on our armor, and follow Jesus, just as the brave women of faith who came before us.

Think of Mary Slessor, who fearlessly served in Nigeria, or Gladys Aylward, who risked her life to save orphans in China. Consider Amy Carmichael, who dedicated her life to rescuing young girls from temple prostitution in India. These women, like Elisabeth, exemplified the call to lay down their lives for the sake of the gospel.

Through the Gates of Splendor

Elisabeth Elliot's first husband, Jim Elliot, was one of the five missionaries martyred by the Huaorani Indians in Ecuador in 1956. Elisabeth eloquently captured this pivotal moment in mission history through her books, particularly Through Gates of Splendor (link to book).

In this book, Elisabeth shares the story of her husband's sacrificial love for the Huaorani people and the impact their deaths had on the world. Despite the heart-wrenching tragedy, Elisabeth's unwavering faith and trust in God's sovereignty shines through every page.

Lessons from Elisabeth Elliot

Elisabeth Elliot's life and teachings continue to inspire and challenge us today. Here are some key lessons we can learn from her:

1. Embrace the Call to Sacrifice: Elisabeth understood that following Jesus often requires sacrifice. She embraced this truth and lived it out in her own life.


2. Trust in God's Sovereignty: In the face of tragedy and uncertainty, Elisabeth clung to the belief that God was in control. She trusted in His plan, even when it seemed incomprehensible.


3. Live with Boldness and Courage: Elisabeth's life was marked by boldness and courage. She faced challenges head-on, never shying away from difficult situations or hard truths.


4. Seek God's Will Above All Else: Elisabeth's primary desire was to follow God's will, even when it went against her own desires or plans. She exemplified surrender and obedience.


5. Embrace Contentment in All Circumstances: Elisabeth understood the power of contentment. She found joy and peace in the midst of both joys and trials, trusting that God's goodness would prevail.

Biblical Inspiration

Elisabeth Elliot's teachings were firmly rooted in Scripture. Let's explore some Bible verses that resonate with her life and legacy:

• 1 Peter 4:12-13 - "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed."


• Matthew 16:24 - "Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'


• Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."


• Philippians 4:11-13 - "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

These verses remind us of the challenges and joys that await us as followers of Christ. They encourage us to trust in God's plan, embrace sacrifice, and find contentment in His presence.

Elisabeth Elliot's Legacy

As we remember Elisabeth Elliot in 2023 and beyond, let us strive to carry on her legacy of unwavering faith, boldness, and sacrificial love. May we embrace the call to follow Jesus with wholehearted devotion, trusting in God's sovereignty and finding contentment in His presence.

Just as a peach tree bears fruit, Elisabeth Elliot's life bore the fruit of faith and inspiration. May her legacy continue to nourish and inspire generations to come.