I never thought that I'd read a book that made me think, "GROWING OLD JUST GOT BETTER!". . .until now. No matter what you think about aging when you begin the book, you will agree with my sentiments when you finish this one!

The afternoon of life is that wondrous, time between being too old to be a "young" woman and too young to be an "old" woman – a time when we find ourselves faced with a diverse multitude of opportunities, challenges, and changes – some physical, some emotional, some welcome, some heart wrenching.

Elyse Fitzpatrick's unique book takes on topics that are rarely touched upon in other books for women. While empathetic to the varied emotional responses evoked by this time of life, Elyse uncovers the basic truths of God's perspective on each of the issues she explores, providing a framework from which to examine our own unique situations.

The subtitle of this timely book reveals the heart of the work..."Finding Purpose and Joy in Midlife". Explore with her the life-changes awaiting ALL women and uncover a wide range of potential issues and combinations of issues that women 'in the middle' may find themselves facing.

From empty nesting, and mid-life marriage to dealing with returning and unsaved children; from having to raise our own grandchildren to caring for elderly or infirm parents, Elyse does not avoid dealing with the tough issues. Her approach is theological soundness, great empathy, compassion, encouragement, and humor.

The chapter entitled dear unbelieving child will both break your heart and heal it - with resounding wisdom and beguiling truths. This chapter alone makes me want to buy a copy of this book for each dear friend with a lost child.

The author repeatedly reminds us that when a solid faith is at the center of all of our responses, we can move through the inevitable changes and challenges with COURAGE, GRACE, and CONVICTION.

Throughout each of the very real circumstances discussed, keeping our eyes on glorifying God and submitting to His purposes will produce a JOYFUL and FULFILLING walk along the pathway to our sanctification.

Elyse encourages women to walk CONFIDENTLY by faith in these unfamiliar journeys ATTUNED TO and TUNED BY the Word of God knowing that all the while He is producing the peaceable fruit of righteousness in us, and fitting us for continued service in His kingdom!

The "afternoon of life" can be a time of intense learning and growth resulting in older women FIT to fulfill the Titus 2 mandate because they have been sharpened, deepened, and tried through the varied stages of life. These times produce willing guides, compassionate mentors, empathetic encouragers, and wise servants to light the way for our daughters and granddaughters to be the next generation of valiant Christian women.

You will be glad that you read this book! Great Bible study and application questions at the end of each chapter lend themselves to both private meditation and small group discussion.

If you are not yet an "afternoon woman", surely, there are women in your church who are. No other book currently available in the Christian community skillfully answers so many questions these women are asking.

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