What do you think?
Rate this book
LadyLike: Living Biblically
Are you interested in understanding the wider culture and your place within God s plan for His people? Women are often greatly encouraged to learn that their driving desire to be a wife and mother is part of God s plan and not a symptom of latent patriarchalism or a sell-out of their emancipated sisters. This book surveys historical, sociological and scientific defense of women s roles. It investigates cultural clichés. And, most important, it explores the biblical perspective of God s planned order and how women are to function within it.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2015
29 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
Rebekah Curtis
2 books5 followersRebekah Curtis is married to Pastor H. R. Curtis and they have seven children. As kids allow, Rebekah does some writing from home. Her work has appeared at Babble, Touchstone, The Federalist, and a number of Lutheran publications. She was a contributor to CPH's Lutheranism 101 and A New Song devotional series, and is an indexer for the Concordia Commentary series. An alumna of Concordia University Nebraska, Rebekah also has a master's from Concordia Seminary and a healthy respect for the Yellowstone supervolcano.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 12, 2017
There are some really good essays in this book: clear, concise, engaging, and convicting about the ways our current society is failing to support women, and failing to accurately convey Biblical concepts of vocation and compassion. But the majority of the essays that I read were primarily snark and assertions about Biblical truth without supporting quotes or citations. I don't need more snark in my life, particularly from a book that holds the title "Living Biblically." The introduction did warn that this was not intended to be devotional or inspirational, so I suppose if I had found the right time in my day or the right purpose for the readings, I would have been able to finish, but I got tired of trying to wade through the mocking. Especially after our last presidential election, I have very little tolerance for the practice of mocking those who disagree with you, especially without properly documenting the truth that backs you up.
July 26, 2015
Great book. Entertainingly written, but serious in its intent, thoughtful and thought-provoking. Refreshing in its candid consideration of the Holy Scriptures and what they have to say concerning the high and holy callings of women in the world. The authors are competent and confident, both in their writing and in their confession of the Word of God. While the perspective they advocate may seem "quaint" or "old-fashioned," it demonstrates a rigorous theological understanding of the value and sanctity of human life, both male and female, young and old, married and unmarried. As a pastor, I especially appreciated the caring and sympathetic tone of the book, the self-deprecating humor with which it has been written, and, above all, the consistent application of the Law and the Gospel unto repentance and faith in the forgiveness of sins for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ. In this latter point, in particular, it is clear that the point of the book is squarely centered in the Gospel to the glory of God in His beloved Son, the heavenly and holy Bridegroom of His Church in heaven and on earth. Well done, ladies. Well done.
June 10, 2015
Nobody likes getting their buttons pushed. it makes us squirmy, upset, and maybe even angry. "LadyLike" has some squirms to offer. For the more delicate among us, you may want to skip over the "Looking at Nowadays" section to begin with and start with the "Not Too Fancy" or "It's Very Personal" sections. Regardless of whether, like me, you read the book from front to back, read headed sections out of order, or pick and choose essays by title from the table of contents, be prepared to consider what these ladies have to say, have your toes stepped on once or twice, nod in agreement, and maybe even be led to tears.
Rebekah and Rose affirm traditional gender roles. How this plays out in your individual home is not prescribed, but they do logically point out that it makes sense for you to do the work that you generate. We parents teach our children that if they make a mess they should clean it up. Does it not then make sense that if we make a mess or procreate that we should take care of our own work to do? This is not to say that all people should do the same things; that those with means should not employ people to clean, cook, or babysit for them; but that women should examine their motives for making their decisions. Are we feeling guilty for staying home to care for our family? Are we feeling useless because we aren't out there doing what society has told us we should do to make a real difference in the world? Time to think about vocation and what being a mother is all about.
I would have liked to have read some essays that were a little more personal. My favorites are The Family of God, Hey Mister Pastor Man (the best argument against female pastors I've ever read), Being Special is Special!, Dear Sisters, Whac-a-Mole, and What is God Trying to Tell You? I do believe that if people give the book a chance (everyone should probably start and end their reading of this book with Being Special is Special!, especially if you are going to be purposely looking for the book to offend you) that there is something here for everyone.
Rebekah and Rose affirm traditional gender roles. How this plays out in your individual home is not prescribed, but they do logically point out that it makes sense for you to do the work that you generate. We parents teach our children that if they make a mess they should clean it up. Does it not then make sense that if we make a mess or procreate that we should take care of our own work to do? This is not to say that all people should do the same things; that those with means should not employ people to clean, cook, or babysit for them; but that women should examine their motives for making their decisions. Are we feeling guilty for staying home to care for our family? Are we feeling useless because we aren't out there doing what society has told us we should do to make a real difference in the world? Time to think about vocation and what being a mother is all about.
I would have liked to have read some essays that were a little more personal. My favorites are The Family of God, Hey Mister Pastor Man (the best argument against female pastors I've ever read), Being Special is Special!, Dear Sisters, Whac-a-Mole, and What is God Trying to Tell You? I do believe that if people give the book a chance (everyone should probably start and end their reading of this book with Being Special is Special!, especially if you are going to be purposely looking for the book to offend you) that there is something here for everyone.
September 6, 2015
All in all, I loved this book! As women we have been lied to and this book is not afraid to pull back the layers of society to expose that lie. My favorite essay is The Pie Eating Contest, because it addresses the lie that we can have IT all. Through their wit and intelligence, the authors make this book interesting and hard to put down, with a style that is sharp and yet inviting. It is an important book for all women who are interested in living biblically!
June 19, 2018
I loved this book. Be ready for quirkiness and snark and unapologetic Lutheran theology....but humble doses of God’s Word, and uplifting forgiveness.
I’ll be needing to read it again in a few years!
I’ll be needing to read it again in a few years!
June 14, 2018
Feminism is so very deeply ingrained in not only American culture but in American Christianity (yes, even its conservative branches) that it is daring to speak bold truth against it. This book blatantly and unapologetically does just that. What the authors have to say is thoroughly Biblical and often full of common sense as well. When does it ever work out in life that anyone can “have it all” in any meaningful way? Yet, as Mrs. Curtis and Mrs. Adle point out, that is precisely the lie that Feminism tells women: Have your pie and eat it too. Plus this one and this one and . . . Why aren’t you enjoying your pie-eating life?
The essays are brief yet full of points to ponder. They are also written in a style that is fresh and zestful. I enjoyed the burst of flavorful vocabulary and turns of phrase, even while realizing that what seems fresh in 2018 will likely smack of this particular decade to future readers.
Perhaps my greatest debate in reading the book was who the intended audience actually is. So deeply has Feminism insinuated itself into most female minds that the sharp, unapologetic truths the authors lay out are likely to result in closed ears, hearts, and minds for the on-the-fence crowd. On the other hand, those like myself who already deplore the havoc Feminism has wrought simply find ourselves nodding in agreement through the pages rather than wrestling with the implications for our life with our neighbors who are less convinced.
In the end, the thing I valued most from my reading was this rather larger question that the book’s tone and content raised in my mind: How do we speak truth boldly and yet persuasively to those whose whole worldview is skewed by a fundamental myopia such as Feminism? Is it even possible to win over those sisters who have been trained to put up their defenses at the least suggestion of domesticity or submission? I think that Mrs. Curtis and Adle strive to do this with Ladylike, but I am not convinced this book is up to that difficult persuasive task. Yet I also appreciate the straightforwardness of a book that does not tiptoe around everyone’s feelings but gives real substance that might open up real arguments—and perhaps thereby open up minds as well.
The essays are brief yet full of points to ponder. They are also written in a style that is fresh and zestful. I enjoyed the burst of flavorful vocabulary and turns of phrase, even while realizing that what seems fresh in 2018 will likely smack of this particular decade to future readers.
Perhaps my greatest debate in reading the book was who the intended audience actually is. So deeply has Feminism insinuated itself into most female minds that the sharp, unapologetic truths the authors lay out are likely to result in closed ears, hearts, and minds for the on-the-fence crowd. On the other hand, those like myself who already deplore the havoc Feminism has wrought simply find ourselves nodding in agreement through the pages rather than wrestling with the implications for our life with our neighbors who are less convinced.
In the end, the thing I valued most from my reading was this rather larger question that the book’s tone and content raised in my mind: How do we speak truth boldly and yet persuasively to those whose whole worldview is skewed by a fundamental myopia such as Feminism? Is it even possible to win over those sisters who have been trained to put up their defenses at the least suggestion of domesticity or submission? I think that Mrs. Curtis and Adle strive to do this with Ladylike, but I am not convinced this book is up to that difficult persuasive task. Yet I also appreciate the straightforwardness of a book that does not tiptoe around everyone’s feelings but gives real substance that might open up real arguments—and perhaps thereby open up minds as well.
May 3, 2018
Wit, wisdom, and the Word for Christian ladies. Excellent on audio.
February 21, 2017
Thought provoking book that catches us in our sins and follies and applies biblical Law and Gospel in each short chapter, giving us encouragement to be Lady Like and to live biblically.
August 25, 2015
Didn't love all of it, but there was more good than bad and the parts that were good were REALLY good. I can't even argue with the parts I didn't like because they were most likely true. The format reads like a really well-done blog. Putting the more controversial premises through the logical ringer is a worthwhile thought exercise.
September 23, 2015
This was an excellent book that deals with all the worldly views of how women should live vs. God's designs. There was one chapter in there that dealt with "having it all" & did we really win anything with trying to have it all. Things I've been dealing with for decades. Everyone should read this, not just women, and especially our young people.
March 11, 2021
“Lady Like” is a must-read for women (and men, honestly, would do well to read it as well).
https://madelynrosecraig.com/2019/10/...
https://madelynrosecraig.com/2019/10/...
October 29, 2018
Authors Rebekah Curtis and Rose Adle challenge the contemporary mindset of feminism and invite us to look closely at the blessing of a being a woman. My favorite essay was "Brains for Women!" The world at large may criticize us for not using our brains in the business world or for the advance of science, but the authors remind us the job titles of Wife, Mom, Daughter, Friend are every bit as important as Operatic Soprano or Chemist. God may call us to vocations deemed significant by the world, but more often He asks us to live ordinary lives and love the people He has placed near us. I love the encouragement the authors give!
August 19, 2018
A challenge to assumptions, culture, and my own thinking for sure. This book somehow got under my skin ... in both good and bad ways. Some of the essays had me so frustrated with the circular logic and blatant assumptions the authors made. Others had me deep in thought. What I didn't expect? That some of the ideas (even ones that frustrated me) continue to swirl around in my mind. Despite my disagreement with several assertions that were posed, I have a hunch that this book changed me more than I know.
January 10, 2025
I first read this book in 2019, and have referenced the essays many times since. I was sympathetic to many of the views expressed; however, this book was one that gave me courage to fully agree with biblical living in certain areas. This was particularly true in the essays on childbearing: The More, the Merrier? and The Weaker Vessel.
The tone of the book can be a bit abrasive, which has, unfortunately, made me less likely to recommend it others. I am, however, extremely grateful to the authors for exposing the foolishness of the age, and giving biblical wisdom with clarity.
The tone of the book can be a bit abrasive, which has, unfortunately, made me less likely to recommend it others. I am, however, extremely grateful to the authors for exposing the foolishness of the age, and giving biblical wisdom with clarity.
December 30, 2016
There are some interesting takes on what it means to live as a Biblical, Christian woman. Some of the chapters I didn't fully agree with, but all of them made me think.
Some of the writing is dense or hard to follow, especially for a newer Christian who might not understand all of the references.
Some of the writing is dense or hard to follow, especially for a newer Christian who might not understand all of the references.
September 6, 2017
Best book I have read on the Biblical roles for women and how feminism has tried to squash femininity with the lie that women can and should have the whole pie~the pie that once consumed makes her sick. Really enjoyed the writers' uses of metaphors and humor to paint a picture of a much needed message for Christian women.
December 31, 2020
I thought the two authors did an amazing job talking about hot topics in a woman’s world and how those topics relate biblically. I love how they adapted mindsets but stayed true to their core beliefs and gave biblical understanding to the world today.
May 27, 2019
This book really made me think
December 16, 2019
I approached this with some caution, but my fears were unfounded. Extremely helpful.
January 8, 2020
Extremely thought-provoking and impactful
August 28, 2022
Every woman of the Church should read this!
She who has ears to hear, let her hear!
She who has ears to hear, let her hear!
September 2, 2022
Ladylike was kind of jovial to me almost like the Apostle Paul when he said to bear with him in his folly.
April 16, 2025
Good read. Thought provoking and counter cultural
December 13, 2023
Where to begin? Firstly, this book will offend you at some point.
Secondly, that's a good thing, because, let's face it, society frequently has its priorities out of whack.
If you are willing to have your toes stepped on in order to dance better, I highly, highly recommend this book for any woman contemplating her life or priorities. This book offers insights into biblical ways of living from the female perspective, from marriage to motherhood, church life to careers. It presents a refreshing perspective on what it means to be a woman in God's design--not trying to be a man, as the world encourages, but trying to be more fully what He made us to be: women.
If you are looking for a way to have it all at once, or to feel like an empowered wonderwoman or find a path to women's ordination, this is not for you. However, if you are looking for a way to be comfortable with womanhood without having comments about hairstyle or makeup or cooking skills shoved down your throat, this is it. Be prepared for a side of wit that will alternately make you laugh or cry, and brace yourself for the occasional dump of harsh practicality; this is quite the ride.
My only two wishes are that the authors had spent more time on those called to singleness and that I had discovered this book much sooner in life, before I had to wrestle these questions mostly on my own in a culture that was significantly different from Sunday morning values.
Secondly, that's a good thing, because, let's face it, society frequently has its priorities out of whack.
If you are willing to have your toes stepped on in order to dance better, I highly, highly recommend this book for any woman contemplating her life or priorities. This book offers insights into biblical ways of living from the female perspective, from marriage to motherhood, church life to careers. It presents a refreshing perspective on what it means to be a woman in God's design--not trying to be a man, as the world encourages, but trying to be more fully what He made us to be: women.
If you are looking for a way to have it all at once, or to feel like an empowered wonderwoman or find a path to women's ordination, this is not for you. However, if you are looking for a way to be comfortable with womanhood without having comments about hairstyle or makeup or cooking skills shoved down your throat, this is it. Be prepared for a side of wit that will alternately make you laugh or cry, and brace yourself for the occasional dump of harsh practicality; this is quite the ride.
My only two wishes are that the authors had spent more time on those called to singleness and that I had discovered this book much sooner in life, before I had to wrestle these questions mostly on my own in a culture that was significantly different from Sunday morning values.
August 11, 2025
Enjoyed this and helps shape us.
August 23, 2015
Funny, but honest and sincere- this book challenges what we've been taught by society about living biblically. At times heartwarming, at times stepping on our society-softened toes, this book really dives into what it means to live a LadyLike Christian life- both the good and bad of it. Chapters are short and sweet but really get to the heart of the matter. Easy to read (but full of meat to digest): a few at a time, pick and choose, or cover-to-cover (like me).
September 11, 2024
Both style and content were refreshing. Good theology in good humor; it's a modern retelling of ancient truth.
January 18, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. Some great thinking points!
March 7, 2019
Loved this book
This book was so easy to read, yet very thought provoking. We used as a supplement to a Bible study.
This book was so easy to read, yet very thought provoking. We used as a supplement to a Bible study.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews