Reviving the Prayer Journal

The Landscape in Vermont near Mrs. White's Home.  (Photograph taken last year.)

When I was a young wife and mother, I had so many worries and troubles.  There were daily struggles for finances, transportation, and getting the things we needed.  I had no hope for any of it, except from the Lord.  I used to write little prayers in a diary.  I would write out the date and then say something like:

"Our car has broken down again. It will cost $200 for repairs. How will we pay for this?  There is no money in the budget. We have no savings.  I give this burden to you, Lord. Please help us."

This would be written at the top of the page.  The lower portion of the paper was saved to write out the answer and the blessing.

You might wonder how we managed to get by with a broken down car while we waited for the Lord to help.  I will tell you. . . We walked, or gratefully accepted rides from family members to get us to the store, or co-workers helped get my husband to work.  It was more difficult, but we got through until the blessing came.

Once the prayer was answered, I would go back and find the page it had been written on, and I would write out the blessing. The answer might have been something like:

"An unexpected job came up for my husband.  He was able to do the extra work for a couple of weeks. This money paid for the car repair. Thank you!" (The answer always came about in an unexpected way!)

At other times, the prayers and the worries were so hard to bear.  There would be shoes needed for the children.  We may not have had enough food.  My husband was laid off work or lost jobs and those were the hardest times to manage.  I would write down the prayers and the needs and then get back to mothering and homemaking.  I would leave it with the Lord.  Sometimes he answered those prayers before the end of the day. At other times, I waited weeks.  But always the prayers were answered.  I learned to depend on God for all things in this way.  I learned not to rush out and try to fix it all myself. I gained patience and faith and trust and was greatly blessed with a journal of answered prayers.

Our lives are not to revolve around material things, shopping, and money.  The answer to every problem in life is not being rich or having an abundance of possessions.  We are to trust the Lord, working with Him in faith, works, and prayers. This creates an incredible bond and a closeness to our Heavenly Father.   We might say, "How should I manage this, or please guide me in this decision."  We pray, "Lord, please take care of me. Please help."   We say this each day, just like we ask for our daily bread.  The Lord cares for the sparrows who have no home.  He provides us with incredible beauty in sunrises, landscapes, the chirping of sweet birds, and the stunning display of flowers.  There is beauty in trust and faith in the Lord.  He knows all our needs in all times.  He waits for us to ask and to trust in Him.  This is what makes life so precious.

Perhaps this is a good time to revive the old time prayer journal.  Any notebook will work well for this.  It is like a diary of needs and the asking for help from our dear Lord.  Then we write the blessings, the answers, and all the ways the Lord Himself has taken care of us, His dear children.

We can also look back and read these precious entries so that we will always remember that it is the Lord who has provided, and not we ourselves.  He owns the cattle on a thousand hills!  He has the power to give and take wealth, as well as life.  Oh, there is great peace in putting our very lives in His hands and trusting Him for each of our numbered days.  We are grateful for His goodness and His precious care. 


Blessings
Mrs. White


From the Archives -

The Reality - Retirement Planning for the Poor.

It means everything to be - Just a Housewife.

Happy times with Family - Living a Quiet Life.

Mrs. White's special book for homemakers:"Introduction to Home Economics:  Gentle Instruction to Find Joy in Christian Homemaking."

Find stories of home life, with photographs of my home, in this encouraging book. 

 Paperback, 200 pages. 

 - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

There are Scorners Everywhere

Library of Congress: 1918 Robert Carmer Hill house, NJ

                                             

There have been many great men in history who have given their time, health, and life to do the Lord's work. They have walked through their lives living the old paths despite scorners and hecklers in the sidelines.  In this great country, those scorners were the minority.  Today, it seems, in these modern days, there are many more scorners than there are people of great moral character, who openly love their Bibles and live noble lives.

I once saw a documentary of the life of Elvis Presley.  He sang old time gospel music with the great quartets like The Blackwood Brothers.  Some of these men said they would sing well into the night with him, on their own time, out of the limelight.  There was great comfort in singing, and in hearing, of hymns and old gospel music.

Every summer, my Uncle's church hosted week - long revival meetings. He was the preacher.  Everyone would get all dressed up, on hot summer evenings, and were so excited to hear his sermons.  We sang the old time songs out of the hymnals, and we would be convicted and strengthened by the powerful message. It brought many to tears.  By the time these weeks were up, we would all go home refreshed and equipped to seek a godly life, despite the scorners around us.

I have heard it said by many a preacher - "A Christian ought to be happy!"  When we have a close walk with the Lord, there is a great feeling of peace and joy in our hearts.  There is such joy that even in dark times, we have a bond with the Lord who comforts us and gives us such peace that the world can never know. This peace makes us happy!

The other day, I had a song in my mind, "I'll Meet You in the Morning" sung by The Blackwood Brothers.  I was searching through my tapes and trying to find the song.  I wanted to do some baking in my kitchen while listening to this particular tape. . .  This often happens to me.  What is familiar to us and what is precious to us, in regards to music or literature, gives us a sort of craving.   In this case, it was a craving for good things.  Sometimes the body craves a certain food and, we are told, that it is because we need a certain vitamin or nutrient and that causes the craving.  This can also happen in spiritual matters. Have you ever had a craving for the sound of "Amazing Grace" or "Peace in the Valley"?  This is a need for a spiritual vitamin to sustain you and to give you courage.

In these days, church attendance is down. Modest dressing is "out of fashion".  Purity, kindness, and the beauty of a consecrated life are rare. People today are made fun of for being sober. They are made fun of for following the Ten Commandments.  They are ridiculed for being "narrow minded" and "prudish."  These slang terms are the world's arrows against those who love the comfort and joy of a godly life.

Do not be weary of prayer meetings, all night gospel singings, tent revival meetings, and the daily time of family worship.  This is the old time religion that will quench the cravings of the soul.

Today, more than ever, we need the strength of godliness and holiness so that no heckler can make us stumble.  No heckler should be able to distract us or divert us from the most beautiful, happy life they may never know.  We must stand strong and continue to love our Bibles, love purity, and love a life of "Amazing Grace."  We are on a narrow, difficult path, toward the gates of Heaven.  But God's children shall all meet up together "over yonder" on that beautiful shore on the greatest "morning" of all.

blessings
Mrs. White

From the Archives -


Difficult Days here at Home - The Shabby Garden.

Homemaking Help - The Secret to a Clean House.

Marriage with Little Money - When Groceries are the Presents.

 - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

 

For Encouragement in Christian Homemaking, order Mrs. White's book, "Homemaking For Happiness: Wonderful Days at Home."

In this book, you will find essays, articles, and diary entries about life in a Christian home.

Entries are arranged by season, and include:  "Keeping a Frugal Kitchen;" "Missing the Lilacs;" "An Evening Walk in the Garden;" "At Grandmother's House;" and "Chores for Grandchildren."

You will also find a few photographs showing a little of the local landscape.

Paperback, 307 pages.

Economy For The Christian Home

 

~ Our newest book, brought to you by "The Legacy of Home Press." ~


This book was written while taking care of grandbabies, cleaning the house, cooking, and caring for the family.  It was very difficult to write in my notebook when everyone was sleeping, or jot down Bible verses and look up passages while dinner was cooking.  It took many hours of formatting, proofreading and fixing mistakes.  It is still imperfect, just as I am. (gentle smiles). 

The front cover is of our Vermont property. The photograph was taken in November 2014. We still have lots of snow here as it stays all winter long in northern Vermont.  In the picture, you can see our tall Christmas trees, our American flag and our old wooden wagon.

The book is designed to bless and encourage you in saving and giving. It includes some personal stories from my own experience, along with ideas for your own home.  I hope this book will encourage you in the careful use of money,  as you strive to be the kind of wife your husband can say he does not worry about the waste of domestic funds. (Proverbs 31:11)

Details:

 A Bible study designed for individual or group use.

{Scripture quoted in this book is from the KJV Bible.}

 Includes:

- 12 challenges.

- 12 homework assignments.

- 12 devotionals to inspire and motivate you.

You will learn about a "Charity Box" for the home; how "New England Thrift" can help you save money; how "Prayer Directed Giving" can warm your heart; what it is like to "Live in Reduced Circumstances" and much more.

At the end of the 3 month program, your house-account should be more efficient. You will have money in your savings account and your giving will increase in ways that will bless you and others as well.

Mrs. White's book on Saving Money and Inspiring Charity:

-Economy for the Christian Home.  

Paperback, 110 pages. 

 

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives -

Finding Happiness at home - Poor and Pretty Living.

We Need More of This - Homemaking Propaganda.

Nourishment and Frugality - Basic Cookery.

  - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

All of God's Children Have Shoes

Illustration by "Van Bloemen" (1792-1844)

Many years ago, a dear old mother taught her children great faith in God.  She had no education and raised the family in material poverty.   She was one of many, many mothers in similar circumstances throughout history.  This dear lady, in particular, loved the Lord with all her heart.  She taught the children songs which cheered them on their daily path.

One of the songs went something like this:

"All of God's children have shoes. . .
In Heaven, Oh! In Heaven, they put on their shoes. . .
Oh in Heaven . . All of God's children have shoes."

The children smiled at this sweet lesson. I am sure they repeated the song as they walked the fields doing their chores.  They sang the song as they walked miles to school.  Often they had no shoes, or wore ones that were old and did not fit.  But they thought sweetly of Heaven and of their sweet Mama.  They learned of Great faith and of the journey to their Heavenly home.  There was something much more important to these children, than just their own lot in life. There was a future and a reward, where they would have wonderful shoes and get to be with God.

There is a beautiful prayer many of us say each day; it is taken from Scripture (Matthew chapter 6). Part of it goes, "Our Father which art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done. In earth as it is in Heaven.  Give us this day, our daily bread. . ."  This prayer acknowledges that God takes care of us today, as the needs come.  He may not always provide tomorrow's needs before it is necessary.   Often, we impatient children pray for a need and expect it to suddenly appear.  In this way, we are forgetting that it is not "OUR will" that must be done, but "HIS," and in His timing, for His purposes. (Romans 8:28)

We must have faith in Him, like a trusting child.  We are grateful to be called His very own children, and we are happy to work here in His service.  Sometimes, we must wait days, months, or years for our prayers to be answered.  At other times, our prayers are answered in beautiful ways. 

Mrs. C. H. Spurgeon suffered for most of her life as an invalid.  But she did incredible work for the Lord.  At times, her sickness and weariness caused her to pause and recover.  But once she was better, she got right back to work. She was the wife of the beloved British Pastor, Charles Spurgeon.  She was a loving mother of twin sons, and kept the home. She also faithfully did charity work (from home) to help other Pastors who suffered in want.  God blessed her efforts greatly.  Sometimes her prayers were slow to be answered. Other times, the need was supplied before she realized it was necessary!   There was a time when she wanted something (a "want" mind you), to cheer her.  Just some sweet things, -  an opal ring, and a singing bird.  She only told her husband. They both laughed, thinking it was not possible.  In those days, people were more practical and did not spend money on that which was frivolous.  Oh, but the Lord heard that little prayer and worked through the Saints, who didn't even realize her request.  These dear ones passed the little gifts on through Charles, as they were no longer needed in their own homes. And so it was that Mrs. Spurgeon got her ring and bird, to brighten her sick days.   Charles said to his dear wife, something like, "I think you are one of God's spoiled children."  And how dearly sweet and precious it was!

Our prayers are like songs that reach heaven.  We may have dire needs, or little childish requests.  Yet, when we trust our Heavenly father to meet those needs whether it be here on earth, or after we pass the gates of Heaven, and are content with HIS perfect will, we will be happy in heart.  Our little songs and prayers, as we travel along this life, pass on sweet lessons to those around us because of our FAITH.

Just remember, whenever you may find your faith weakening, or your heart getting weary, remember that dear old mother who taught her little ones, that all of God's children have shoes.

Blessings
Mrs. White

This article is from Mrs. White's book, "Living on His Income."

From the Archives-

Precious Homemaking - A Covered Bridge and Graceful Living in Rural Vermont. 

Blessed by the Work - Old Fashioned Duty of a Homemaker. 

Teaching Grandchildren - Tea Time - The Importance of Formal Ceremony at Home.

 - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

Early Morning Revival Challenge

"Inspired by the life, writings, and journals of John Wesley (1700's), Mrs. White has created a 90 - day Bible study challenge. .

The program consists of four, easy to follow, daily assignments. Readers are expected to rise earlier in the morning than normal; Spend 20 minutes in prayer, Bible reading, writing in a journal, and reading quotes from Ministers from long ago. . .

Here is a sample of one of the quotes from the book:

 "Think what God has prepared for those who love Him! Oh, that our thoughts would ascend! The higher the bird flies the sweeter it sings!" - Thomas Watson, 1600's



The study is simple to follow, but will take a tremendous amount of discipline to stay consistent to the very end. 

If you are up for a challenge and ready for a revival, this book is just what you need!"


This is a 116-page book, 5.5" x 8.5".    

I spent hours searching through my home library, to glean a selection of inspiring quotes from Ministers from the 1600's, 1700's and the 1800's.  These include Richard Baxter, Thomas Boston, John Wesley, Samuel Rutherford, John Bunyan, and more (one for each day of the challenge).  The book includes a complete bibliography of quotes, so you can see exactly where they came from. 

 

Sample pages from inside the book. (From the Jan. 2024, second edition.)

I intend to start this challenge myself, in just a few days.  I have also ordered a copy for my youngest homeschool student (age 16).  I believe this will be an excellent addition to his studies.  The discipline of reading 2 chapters in the Bible each day (from Psalms and Proverbs), writing in a journal, and praying, before the day begins will be a blessing to both of us!


 Who Would Enjoy the Book:

1. Teens in youth group or Sunday School.
2. An informal Bible Study Group (perhaps they can each get a copy and check in with each other on their progress.)
3. Homeschool students (high school or college age)
4. Adults
5. A Wonderful gift idea for family and friends.

 

"Early Morning Revival Challenge" 

First edition: August 2013

Second edition: January 2024

Second printing: September 2024

116 pages, paperback. 

 Blessings
Mrs. White

(Note: This post was updated on May 3, 2026.)

From the Archives:

Lessons from my Aunt  - Manners Learned at the Finishing School.
 

Frugal Living - A New England Winter on Small Income.

Taking Care of the Family - A Covered Bridge and Graceful Living in Rural Vermont. 

- To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

The Sanctuary of Home

LOC: Living Room at a Home in Wisconsin, 1945.

There will always be storms brewing out in the world, for Mothers to silently fight.  There will be lurkers, with ulterior motives, trying to lure the residents away from a godly home.  There will be temptations of events to keep mother so distracted and busy that she doesn't remember how to keep home a quiet place of rest.

 - Mothers must learn to make home a sanctuary. -

Today, the sporadic holiday traffic out front is bringing sudden and alarming noises.   I have a baby here who needs his morning rest.  I closed the blinds to keep out the heat of the sun.  I closed the front windows to stop the traffic sounds.  Then I opened the back windows so we can hear the soothing sound of the rushing water of the back river.  Baby will sleep soundly at our quiet Estate.

Sometimes we have to shoo out certain people from rooms in our house, in order that we may keep a gentle home running.  We may even send loud children outdoors to play. It is good for them, and good for us.  Mothers often send guests home when the hour is getting late.  The home must have order, and the residents must have their wholesome rest.

Bible time and prayer-hour should be sacred events, that occur at regular times.  When Mother is delighted and peaceful and rested, the family will happily follow her in the parlour for the time of worship.  It will be almost as awe-inspiring and precious as reading a beautiful bedtime story.  The short time of devotion is a time of reverence and holiness.  It is a discipline in consistency and a lesson in serving the Lord.

When family and guests enter Mother's sanctuary (of a godly home), they should immediately sense her joy and warm welcome.  The residents know Mother works hard to make home a pleasant and happy place. 

Is this ideal place worth fighting for?  Is it worth shutting out the world at regular times so the family can enjoy a respite, taking refreshment and rest they dearly need? 

When they leave Mother's well-tended sanctuary, will their hearts yearn to be back soon?  Will they get homesick for that loving place? 

Babies and small children need rest and order and the routine of a home nursery.  In this fast paced world of overindulging in everything, wouldn't it be worthy if more Mothers created this same type of nursery at home for all who enter?



Blessings
Mrs. White

From the Archives -

Practical help for the home - Peaceful Living by Rules.

The example of my Parents - Minding my own Housekeeping Business.

A Simple Life - How to Stop Buying Things that Clutter up the Home. 

 - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

 

Prayers Which Cannot Be Uttered

Winter scene at Mrs. White's property in Vermont.

 

When my children were very young, we watched a program on VHS called,  "Shalom Shabbat." It was adorable and starred Topol (from "Fiddler on the Roof").  He was an older gentleman who visited a school to celebrate the Sabbath with the students.  He was able to enjoy the Sabbath meal with one of the families. There are a variety of segments, which show us the different foods served in different countries and cultures.  There are also very short and precious stories using "clay type - cartoon" people.  It was a delightful program.

One segment that struck me was this little boy, sitting on the synagogue steps. There were Hebrew letters all around him and he was puzzled.  The Rabbi, on his way into the synagogue, noticed the boy and his dilemma.  He announced to the congregation that the service would be delayed. He told them about the young boy, saying that time was needed for the letters to reach heaven and form into a prayer.

Sometimes, in our own prayer life, we don't always know what to say.  At other times, we may be so overcome by the trials and pain in our lives, that a prayer is agonizing and exhausting.  What this boy and Rabbi teach us is that we don't always have to say something in our prayers.   There are times we are so weary and dumbfounded, that it is a precious blessing to just sit at the Master's feet, mute, and be comforted.  God knows what we would have said, or what we need.  . . He understands.

Blessings
Mrs. White

From the Archives -

For the Tough Times - The Note in Mother's Pocket.

If only we Mothers Had this - Amazing Dedication.

 - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. 

Read Mrs. White's book on Saving Money and Inspiring Charity:

-Economy for the Christian Home.  

Paperback, 110 pages. 

 

 

Simplicity of Old Fashioned Homemaking

Library of Congress:  Sitting Room at 121 Henry Street in Detroit Michigan, 1915

We've all seen the busy housewife, who decorates and bakes and throws delightful parties.  She shops and she plans. She is so active in, and out of, the home that many look at her and wonder where she gets her energy.  Most observe her life and despair of trying to mimic her!  She is her own star and she is unreachable!

There is another way.  It is the humble, basic way of simplicity.  It might look meager and poor. It might even look too easy.  But this way can be obtained by far more housewives, if they only realize it is okay to be simple.

There is a slowness to it. . . There is no ambition. . . It is the quiet servant - the meek one, who guides the home.  This housewife putters around the house and yard, cleaning and cooking in her own way. 

In the old days, oatmeal or porridge was the morning meal. Perhaps some bread and butter went with it.  No family was served processed, sugary cereal because it had not yet been invented.  Now today, can you imagine serving morning guests some oatmeal?  How many would balk at it?  But it is healthy and nourishing and warm and comforting!

A simple lunch of baked beans and biscuits with hot tea might be served during the afternoon break from chores.  This isn't a take out meal, or a fast food lunch. It isn't an elaborate planned out menu item.  It was what was available in the pantry.

Domestic occupations were not about planning elaborate events for the home. The simple duties were for the comfort of the family and basic survival. The laundry, the sweeping, the mopping, the cooking, the dusting were all on the normal agenda at home.   The homemaker would put on her housedress and apron and be "on duty" for the day. She was there to tend to the home and family.  She was not the 'event planner' or the one to spoil the children by gratifying their every worldly "want."

There is something very basic and very lovely about an old time home-life.  Bible reading and family prayers were done morning and evening. The family would have afternoon prayers with the noon meal.  They would break from their labor to worship the Lord.  Thoughts of heaven, eternal rest and joy were the ambition.   The focus was on the journey home and the blessed example they could leave to those around them.

Many of us crave this kind of life, but we are often tripped up and confused by what goes on in our culture.  A routine of home-life, the act of ironing or washing floors in the quiet of the morning (while praying or singing old time hymns) can help keep us grounded.  Are we not pilgrims and strangers on this earth?  May the Lord help us to avoid acting like the "stars" of this world.

Blessings
Mrs. White

From the Archives -

What Many of Us Crave - An Ordinary Life at Home.

Training Children - Nobody Wants to Clean a Messy House.

A Precious Time - Walking the Gardens with Baby.

 - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

Mrs. White's special book for homemakers:"Introduction to Home Economics:  Gentle Instruction to Find Joy in Christian Homemaking."

Find stories of home life, with photographs of my home, in this encouraging book. 

 Paperback, 200 pages. 

Morning Devotions for the Family

Before the invention of television, video games, and radios, families had more time for religious duties. We often get caught up in doing good things. Yet, sometimes those good things are overindulged, instead of done in moderation.

One of the most important things we can do, with our families, is have a time of morning devotions. We can gather around the living room, or kitchen table. Everyone comes with a sense of awe and reverence - it is family devotion. The Bible is read by Dad. The Mother smiles warmly at her children. The little ones and teens sit quietly and listen closely. Then it is prayer time and the family is dismissed to the events of the day.

What a precious way to begin the morning.

Blessings
Mrs. White


Some quotes -


They are not merely to be taught out of some elementary book that they must love God, but you must show them God is loved. If they observe that no worship is paid to that God of whom they hear, the very best instruction will prove useless; but by means of Family Worship, these young plants will grow "like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season: his leaf also shall not wither." - J.H. Merle D'Aubigne

Family Worship increases the spirit of reverence for God and His Word. Children copy their parents’ spirit and example. If parents begin the day by invoking God’s blessing, by consecrating the early hour to His service, they show their estimate of the value of worship. - Rev. M. Simpson

You must read the scriptures to your families, in a solemn manner, requiring their attendance on your reading, and their attention to it. - Matthew Henry

 - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

 

For happiness and cheer in the kitchen:

Mrs. White's old fashioned cookbook focuses on serving meals and setting the table in a humble home.

"Serving in the Kitchen: Cookbook with Recipes, Advice, and Encouragement for the Christian Home"

152 pages, paperback

A Lovely Old Fashioned Study for You

The Elizabeth Prentiss Study

Elizabeth Prentiss

In October of 2009, I created a life transforming study. It is designed to help you have daily personal devotions.

The format helps discipline us, using daily assignments like Prayer, Keeping a Journal,  Bible Reading, Listening to hymns (or gospel music) and reading portions from a wonderful book written in the 1800's by Elizabeth Prentiss, "Stepping Heavenward."


This is a 90 day program and has been adapted for individual use. This was originally a free download,which is no longer available.

 In 2021, we expanded the study into a book.  

The original study was a printout that one would place into a binder notebook

.

.

 

The new deluxe edition includes these special features:

- Introduction by Mrs. Sharon White

- Portrait of Mrs. Prentiss, from 1882.

- About "Stepping Heavenward," including reviews written in 1871.

- Detailed directions for the study with inspiring details from the letters of Mrs. Prentiss. 

- Instructions for an optional Group Study format called "The Prentiss Study Club." It also has 12 weeks of weekly check-ins for those who want to do the program with others.

- The Study itself has 90 days of assignments with a place to check off each item as completed.

- A brief biography of the Prentiss family at their summer home in Dorset, Vermont (in the 1800's). This includes details of their family life, and photographs taken in 2019 by Mrs. White when she visited Dorset a few years ago. You will see a little of the town and the Prentiss home. 

- Reference notes include details of sources and other helpful information and guidance.

                        -------------------

 In addition to having a copy of "The Prentiss Study" book, you will need the following in order to do the study:


- Your Bible. (I use the KJV.)

- A copy of the 1800's book, Stepping Heavenward, by Elizabeth Prentiss. (This is a fictitious journal, which has inspired and changed women all over the world.)

- A journal or notebook to record your diary entries.

- Access to hymns or gospel music.

- Time for Prayer each day.

                                                                ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

  Below you will find a link to each edition of "The Prentiss Study Deluxe Edition" It is available in both paperback and hardcover.  Both editions are 105 pages.  The hardcover edition is especially sturdy and beautiful and will make an excellent addition to any home library. 

The Prentiss Study Deluxe Edition paperback.

105 pages, 6 x 9.        ISBN: ‎ 978-1956616040

The Prentiss Study Deluxe Edition hardcover. 

105 pages, 6 x 9.      ISBN:  978-1956616057

I hope you enjoy the study! If you are able to get "The Prentiss Study" and like it, I hope you will be able to leave a review on Amazon. It would be a great help to me. Thank you!

- Also available from The Legacy of Home Press:

 

Stepping Heavenward - The paperback edition:

ISBN # 978-1956616002

295 pages.

6 x 9

Enjoy!

Blessings
Mrs. White

- To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

Mrs. White's special book for homemakers:"Introduction to Home Economics:  Gentle Instruction to Find Joy in Christian Homemaking."

Find stories of home life, with photographs of my home, in this encouraging book. 

 Paperback, 200 pages. 

The Sewing Hour

There is a time, in a homemaker's day, called The Sewing Hour. It is when she sits quietly in the parlor and works on the sewing. Perhaps she is mending the family wardrobe? Or maybe she is hand-sewing a hem on a new garment? I am often working on an apron. There was a time when I would crochet a baby afghan, or sew a toddler quilt while praying or singing hymns.  This is a precious time of quiet devotion.

I urge you, dear ones, to use this time to listen to a godly, inspiring, convicting sermon. When the hour has past, you will put down your sewing and your heart will be full. Even though you may hold back tears (because of the sermon), you will get up and minister to your family!

Blessings,
Mrs. White

 To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

How a Godly Mother May Guide an Imperfect Family

Sunday dinner, 1942, Connecticut (LOC)

So many mothers have trials and sorrows. They cry out to God because of wayward children. Or, perhaps they shake their head in despair when their young child continues to do wrong. We need a country of strong, encouraged mothers. We need Mothers to understand that all children, all people, have a sin nature. Our families will be imperfect.

Whenever you see a lovely family of Bible Hugging children- know you are only seeing an image. Those children still sin and give their parents trouble. Perhaps they bicker, or disobey, or even lie. But they love their Mother and they love their Bible. It doesn't mean they are going to be perfect. Let's get that clear, first off.
 
Children silently observe all that Mother does. They know what she is really like. It cannot be hidden in the home.  Mother, we need to know we cannot do any of this alone. We need our dear Lord and I will tell you how to find strength from Him.

1. Strive to live a simple, unworldly life. Find time for recreation for the sake of the body, but it must not be the consuming of one's life.

2. Read the Bible more than any other reading material. Read it to ponder. Read it while praying. Read it while weeping. Read it for strength.

3. Pray with all thy heart and soul and strength. Pray diligently throughout the day. Pray for each child by name. Pray for courage. Pray for faith and love of God's holy way. Pray about everything.

4. Live out your commitments without wavering. Do what you promise to do, even if it causes you pain, exhaustion and suffering. You will be a shining example of a dedicated, responsible soul if you can be trusted to keep your word.

5. Work hard. Work with whatever you have been given to do. Work with all your strength and might- whether it be in your housekeeping, cooking, mothering, gardening or what have you. Do it with pride and commitment.

6. Talk about God with your children.  Tell them about your prayers and the answers when they come. Show your children your total trust and faith in your Heavenly Father. Do this in normal, daily life- as things come up - rather than in forced conversations.

7.  Offer Grace and Mercy to your children. Do not hold grudges. Forgive at once! Forgive even if they are still acting up! Forgive, smile, show compassion and love them with every bit of your strength.  Forgive them over and over and over again - without end.

8.  Speak life into your children.  Lift them up. Praise them and tell them how much you love them and are grateful for them.

9. Do good things for your children. Make an effort to cook their favorite meals and make home a special place they want to be. Make a pleasant and loving home for your family.  Do good things for them, unconditionally - even if they are acting troublesome. Show them love through your actions.

10. Live out a godly life before them. Pray openly. Read your Bible openly. Sing hymns or listen to gospel music openly. Go to the Master and fill your heart with love and holiness and then face your family, fully equipped to minister,while doing your homemaking tasks.

11. Confess your faults. If you are in a bad mood - tell them you are sorry. If you made a foolish decision- repent of it. Show them that none of us are flawless, but God has great mercy and we can only cling to him as the source of our hope.

12. Never bend. Know what your convictions are and do not change them with the times. Do not try to join in sinful, worldly living just to be friends with your children. You are the Mother. You are the example. You must stay strong and live out a godly, holy life before your family. Do not bend to their childish, immature worldly whims. I cannot stress this enough. Children will grow up, remembering your example. One day they will cling to the old ways and realize it was your source of strength.  Long after you are dead and gone, dear mother, they will remember your strong character and godly ways. Don't underestimate the power of a committed, godly life. 

13. Realize that money and things are never going to be more important than one's convictions. If you are seeking money at the expense of your family, or at the expense of your moral values - pray and find a way to drop it as quickly as possible. Nothing is more important than the salvation of the souls of your children. Do not let money, things, or the world's standard of life destroy your only chance of bringing up godly children.

 I want to paint an image of what this looks like in an old fashioned home. Mother has her daily duties. We thank God for her work, because it gives her something important to do. She cannot spend all day wasting time on television, constant eating and lounging. She needs to be about the Master's business - and that is the keeping of the home. She should pray for love for her job, so that it will shine through and bless those around her.  I can see her right now, washing clothes, hanging them on the line. I see her humming and smiling while she makes supper.  Now she is reading the Bible and sharing a verse or two that has blessed her. All her worries are cast on the Lord in prayer. She goes about her daily life, unhurried, and in peace.   The children feel safe and secure because they know Mama is there.


 Dear ones, our daily religious duties are an obligation. We do them whether or not we feel like it. It is what helps keep us on the straight and narrow. If we follow our own way, our own desires, we will be led astray. Perhaps we don't want to go to church. This is an enormous struggle in many homes. We don't want to go. But if we go out of obligation and gratefulness to God, we are setting an amazing example to our children. 

We, as mothers, will have children of all ages, at all stages on their religious journey. Some have been saved, some are struggling in sin, some are confused, and some are under the chastening hand of God. We need to be there, praying, smiling, encouraging and seeing them through these rough years. We may be weeping now, as we work in the harvest fields, but in the end, we will rejoice, bringing our sheaves with us. All that matters, at the end of it all, is not the fun we had, or the worldly things we indulged in, or the money we earned. What matters is walking through the pearly gates, with the souls of our beloved children following us into heaven.

Blessings,
Mrs. White

From the Archives -

Old Fashioned Living - Retirement Planning for the Poor.

Wisdom from Colonial Days  - To Earn and Not to Spend.

Taking Care of the Family - A Covered Bridge and Graceful Living in Rural Vermont. 

 To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

Learn How To Manage Money on a Small Income, with this helpful book:

- It is an honor to be the bookkeeper for the house! - 

Find detailed instruction and inspiration in budgeting on a small income, along with a method for keeping a handwritten ledger, with lots of thrifty ideas, in Mrs.White's book:

 -An Old Fashioned Budget: Humble Financial Management for the Christian Housewife. 

 Paperback, 77 pages.

Suppertime in a Rural Home

"Home For the Holidays" by Todd Williams

 

It is getting dark. The day is almost over. Mama is wearing her apron and cooking in the kitchen. She's smiling and happy and humming a tune, while she leans over the stove.

The children come in from their play. They are cold and excited and talking about all the snowmen they created. Such sweet smiles on their faces! Their eyes light up when they enter the warm house. They put away their coats and settle down to wait for supper.

Daddy walks in after a hard day at work. He is tired. But all his troubles seem to melt away when he enters the inviting rural home.

Some of the children help Mama set the table. They lay out plates and silverware, cups and napkins. Another child comes over to pour drinks. The table looks inviting.

Mama brings out platters of food. She serves fresh warm bread, butter, stew and salad. The children are hungry and excited to enjoy a nice meal with the family.

They sit around the table. Dad says the prayer. Everyone is thankful and smiling. If you are walking by, on that cold winter night, and you happen to see them through the window, you will see laughter and smiles. You will see a happy family eating their supper and full of love and gratefulness.

Mama cleans up while the children run off to play. They are getting their baths and will soon hear a bedtime story. Mama is humming while she washes dishes and polishes the table. Life inside that home is peaceful and joyous. The outside cares and troubles fade away, when it's suppertime in the old rural house.

Blessings,
Mrs. White

From the Archives -

An Encouraging look at - "Poverty in the 1800's" about the Mother of D.L. Moody.

For the love of taking care of grandchildren - "I Hear Angels Crying."

Sweet Faith for Mothers - "All of God's Children Have Shoes."

- To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

Mrs. White's special book for Homemakers - 

"Mother's Book of Home Economics."

312 pages, paperback.

Mama's Prayers

The Residence of the Honorable Horace Greeley, Currier and Ives, 1872

 

 

Gospel Song: "Thank you Mama for Praying for Me"

 




(April 2014, edited update: I can no longer find the original video and song online, by "The Inspirations," which is my favorite version.  However, the lyrics below are from them.  The current video (above) was shared with me by a reader.  The song in the video is sung by Amos Raber.)

Lyrics for "Thank you Mama for Praying for Me" sung by The Inspirations

Somebody, somewhere was praying that night
When Jesus came in and I saw the light.
It must have been Mama
I've heard her before
as she knelt by her bedside, her tears touched the floor.

Thank you Mama for praying for me
If you had not prayed, then where would I be.
They called you old fashioned, but you loved the Lord
and your prayers touched the Master as your tears touched the floor.

She held to the altar and wouldn't give in
'Til she knew all her children had been born again.
Just an old fashioned Mama, but she loved the Lord
and her prayers touched the Master as her tears touched the floor.

Thank you Mama for praying for me
If you had not prayed then where would I be
They called you old fashioned, but you loved the Lord
and your prayers touched the Master as your tears touched the floor.

Thank you Mama for praying for me
If you had not prayed then where would I be
They called you old fashioned, but you loved the Lord
and your prayers touched the Master as your tears touched the floor.

                                ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

  - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

From the Archives - 

Making the Most of Humble Means - Poor and Pretty Living.

Contentment - A Covered Bridge and Graceful Living in Rural Vermont. 

A Peaceful Routine - The Four Little Tasks of Home.

Mrs. White's special book for homemakers:

"Introduction to Home Economics:  Gentle Instruction to Find Joy in Christian Homemaking." 

Paperback, 200 pages. 

Hello Mama - Kingsmen Quartet

Lyrics for "Hello Mama" by The Kingsmen Quartet


"Hello Mama

I just called to tell you
All those tears you shed for me
they were not in vain.

Cuz you see there was
something happened
tonight while I was traveling
down a lonely road
I thought that you should be the first to know
I'm not the same.

All those dreary days, they're over now.
Those sleepless nights are passed.
All those prayers that you have prayed so long
They're answered now at last.

I'm not the man that I used to be
and Mama you can sleep tonight
for I've found Jesus, now everything's alright.

All because
I'm not the man that I used to be
and Mama you can sleep tonight.
I found Jesus now everythings alright
It's alright."

From the Archives - 

Beautiful Living - Feminine Grace.

A Blessing - The Light in a Messy House.

Remembering my Childhood - Manners Learned at the Finishing School.

 - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

- It is an honor to be the bookkeeper for the house! - 

Find detailed instruction and inspiration in budgeting on a small income, along with a method for keeping a handwritten ledger, with lots of thrifty ideas, in Mrs. White's book:

 -An Old Fashioned Budget: Humble Financial Management for the Christian Housewife. 

 Paperback, 77 pages.