The Afternoon of Life: Finding Purpose and Joy in Midlife

by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick

Fitzpatrick helps us see that God’s purpose in bringing us through this time is to glorify himself and to sanctify us. Each chapter ends with reflection and discussion questions.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Christian Living

216 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

Author of 20+ books on the Christian life and the gospel's impact on everyday living, Elyse is a frequent speaker at women's conferences nationally and internationally.

Elyse's ministry is summed up in these simple words: No fluff, No bricks, just the good news of a crucified and risen Christ.

In 1971 she married her sweetheart Phil and together they raised three children and are enjoying six really adorable grandchildren.

Together they attend Valley Center Community Church in the hills of the North County of San Diego where Phil is an elder.

Reviews

[Sara · Rating 2 out of 5]

In a nutshell:. *meh*

I'm a bit surprised at how dated this 2004 book felt. As in, the"new craze" called scrapbooking? New research that questions hormone replacement therapy?

That facet, along with large chunks of text that felt like wasted time, and a somewhat first-world viewpoint overall (or is it a case of excessive Christianese?), decreased this book's value in my eyes.

Fitzpatrick's heart is certainly in the right place. I do appreciate her message that there is a unique freedom and confidence that comes with this time of life, which can enable us to enjoy serving the Lord in new and deeper ways.

Amen. I wholeheartedly agree. However, the writing just did not succeed in engaging me as a reader..

[Lyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found this one @ a women's retreat. Started it, put it aside for awhile and then started reading again. Written for women in their middle years of life. About the changes in your life - children growing up and moving out, etc. Written with biblical wisdom and humor.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice book for those getting to the place where what life means, or what they mean in life, has changed.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Biblical. My favorite part was the Epilogue!

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book! I will read it again and again.

[Kate Hewitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isa very helpful book for those of us in our 40s, 50s, and beyond. As I hit my late 40s, I was surprised by some of the feelings I was struggling with and this book covers them all--the menopause, parents becoming ill or dying, children growing up and moving out, dealing with potential sons and daughters in law, finding a new sense of purpose post-career. Written with humor and gentleness, and not a downer like you might think--it inspired me for the next stage of life. Recommended!

[T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't begin to say enough about this book! Elyse M. Fitzpatrick wrote with such knowledge, and she gathered others to write in areas she thought needed to be told by someone going through the experiences. I was beyond the target audience's age, but there were things talked about that helped me too. I would say this is must read!