📖 Overview
Lady in Waiting is a Christian self-help book that guides single women through principles of Biblical womanhood. The authors draw lessons from the life of Ruth in the Bible and relate them to modern dating and relationships.
The book outlines ten qualities that women can develop while waiting for marriage, including surrender, trust, contentment and faith. Each chapter contains personal stories, Scripture references, and practical exercises for spiritual growth.
Through biblical teaching and real-world application, the book addresses common struggles of Christian single women like loneliness, identity, and purpose. The authors provide guidance on maintaining purity, developing character, and finding fulfillment during seasons of waiting.
The book's central message emphasizes that a woman's worth exists independently of her relationship status, while offering hope and direction for those desiring marriage. Its themes explore the tension between active preparation and patient trust in God's timing.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe this Christian relationship book as practical and biblically-grounded, focusing on personal growth before marriage. Many found the Ruth and Boaz story applications helpful for modern dating.
Readers appreciated:
- Concrete steps for character development
- Focus on becoming complete in Christ before seeking marriage
- Biblical examples and scripture references
- Journal prompts and study questions
- Advice for handling loneliness while single
Common criticisms:
- Too focused on finding a husband rather than contentment in singleness
- Some found the tone preachy or repetitive
- Dated references and examples
- Narrow view of gender roles
- Marriage presented as the ultimate goal
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.18/5 (2,800+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.7/5 (1,100+ ratings)
Christianbook.com: 4.5/5 (60+ ratings)
One reader noted: "This book helped me focus on my relationship with God instead of desperately searching for a relationship." Another stated: "The principles are solid but the 1990s dating advice needs updating."
📚 Similar books
Lady in Training by Beverly White
A Bible-based guide that teaches Christian women principles of godly relationships and personal growth through the lens of Ruth and Esther's stories.
Sacred Singleness by Leslie Ludy This book examines biblical perspectives on finding contentment and purpose as a single Christian woman while preparing for future relationships.
Get Lost: Your Guide to Finding True Love by Dannah Gresh The text presents a biblical framework for shifting focus from pursuing relationships to developing a deeper connection with God.
When God Writes Your Love Story by Eric Ludy, Leslie Ludy The authors share practical guidance for Christian dating based on biblical principles and personal testimonies.
Passion and Purity by Elisabeth Elliot A memoir-based exploration of Christian courtship that draws from the author's relationship with missionary Jim Elliot.
Sacred Singleness by Leslie Ludy This book examines biblical perspectives on finding contentment and purpose as a single Christian woman while preparing for future relationships.
Get Lost: Your Guide to Finding True Love by Dannah Gresh The text presents a biblical framework for shifting focus from pursuing relationships to developing a deeper connection with God.
When God Writes Your Love Story by Eric Ludy, Leslie Ludy The authors share practical guidance for Christian dating based on biblical principles and personal testimonies.
Passion and Purity by Elisabeth Elliot A memoir-based exploration of Christian courtship that draws from the author's relationship with missionary Jim Elliot.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔹 The book's concept is built around the biblical story of Ruth, using her character as a model for modern Christian women seeking both spiritual growth and preparation for marriage.
🔹 Jackie Kendall was inspired to write this book after teaching a Bible study called "Lady in Waiting" for over ten years at various women's conferences and events.
🔹 The book has spawned several companion works, including a study guide and a young lady's edition, making it a cornerstone of Christian relationship literature for multiple generations.
🔹 The principles outlined in "Lady in Waiting" are structured around ten qualities, each beginning with the letter 'D,' such as Diligence, Devotion, and Dependence on God.
🔹 Since its initial publication in 1995, the book has sold over a million copies and has been translated into multiple languages, becoming a staple in Christian women's ministry programs worldwide.