Helper by Design: God's Perfect Plan for Women in Marriage

Excellent book! Elyse is an amazing writer that is to the point without being harsh or hypocritical. Throughout the 1st few chapters, she explains God's design and purpose for marriage, and then she explains how we as women can live up to that purpose. The questions at the end of each chapter really make you think, and are filled w/ Bible verses and activities that provide biblical support for what she is saying.

I found this book a great tool for learning about how to be the wives God wants us to be. I loved it's easy layout complete with questions and motivational thoughts. It's all right there ready to study without needing a study guide. That is awesome for busy moms like myself who want to set aside time to focus on bettering our marriages. Two thumbs up!

Even though submission is an important topic when discussing marriage, I don't get to it until chapter 9 and it's not the primary topic of this book. "Helper By Design" is about the way that God designed women with certain inclinations and strengths and how they can (and should!) be used in marriage. It's about the image of God in us and how that Trinitarian image translates into the relationship between a husband and wife. It's about how you, if you're a Christian wife, can find purpose and joy in that relationship as you come to know Christ in a more intimate way. If you're sick of fluffy books about marriage that tell you the "10 Steps to a Perfect Marriage (Like Mine!)" then this book is for you.

This is, by far, THE BEST book written on this topic that I have ever read. Elyse lays out God's plan for us starting from "the beginning." I very much appreciate her emphasis on the Scriptures, allowing God to enlighten us through His Word, instead of being convinced by good argument. If you want to know how to live with, love, and support your husband, read this book. If you want to know how your identity fits in with being a "help meet", read this book. If you feel frustrated with your unbelieving, or believing but still growing, spouse, read this book. Elyse paints an incredible picture of women made in God's image. She tears down your defenses, releasing you to explore the truth about who you are meant to be as a wife. Problems will always exist in marriages, but understanding the unique role you have in it, ordained by God, helps you to overcome. As always, there is joy and peace when you do things God's way. Elyse has shown me that marriage insn't something to be endured, but to enjoy. There is hope and happiness even if your spouse isn't perfect. I highly recommend this book, especially as a pastor's wife.

We used this book in a small group setting with 30-45 women. We spent approximately 12 weeks doing one chapter a week. The women began commenting week after week that this book simply transformed their marriages. One reason for the success of the book is it helps women to gain a biblical perspective on their role as "Help Mate" to their husband. Thus instead of focusing on changing their husband, they need to look at their own lives; and see where change needs to take place. Elyse does an excellent job at getting to the heart of the issue.