Gathering Jewels / The Secret of a Beautiful Life: In Memoriam of Mr. & Mrs. James Knowles. Selected from Their Diaries.

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22134

Title

Gathering Jewels / The Secret of a Beautiful Life: In Memoriam of Mr. & Mrs. James Knowles. Selected from Their Diaries.

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A devotional memoir honoring James and Matilda Knowles, a devout Presbyterian couple who died within a week of each other at age seventy-five. Selected from their diaries, this book chronicles their forty-seven years of faithful service, missionary work, and unwavering trust in God, offering inspiration for believers seeking to live lives of self-sacrifice and spiritual devotion.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1887, *Gathering Jewels* stands as a pastoral tribute to the lives of James and Matilda Knowles, a devout couple whose forty-seven-year marriage was defined by tireless service and deep faith. Edited by Rev. Duncan McNeill Young, the volume compiles excerpts from their diaries, letters, and sermons to illustrate a shared journey through life's trials. James Knowles, born an orphan at sea, became a compositor, church elder, and dedicated Sabbath-school teacher. Matilda, a missionary and Bible woman, spent over twenty-five years reaching out to the destitute, reforming intemperate individuals, and leading souls to Christ. The text emphasizes that their legacy lies not in intellectual erudition but in vigorous, beautiful conduct and a profound love for God and neighbor. Chapters detail their daily missionary work, the value of prayer, the conversion of children, and their final hours, which they met with triumphant faith. The book portrays a couple who walked hand in hand through 'scorching sands' and 'torrents,' finding strength in Scripture and unity in their devotion. Through poetic verses and heartfelt testimonies, the memoir highlights their humility, perseverance, and enduring hope. It stands as a testament to the power of a life lived for the glory of God, encouraging readers to emulate their example. The volume concludes with the poignant observation that while their earthly mission ends, their lives continue to shine as lights for others, urging the living to remain faithful until the Master calls them higher.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/22134.epub.noimages

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data/epubs/pg22134.epub

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Categories

• Religion
• Biography