Every Christian woman has, undoubtedly, heard of the Proverbs 31
woman–the epitome of virtue and paragon of wifeliness. Multitudes of
books, articles, devotionals and Bible studies have been written
extolling her worth and attempting to inspire us to aim for her high
standards. How many of us have sighed with longing at the thought of
our children arising and calling us blessed? To be honest, I’d be happy
if one post-teenage son just cleaned up his room…but that’s a whole
other story.With so much already in print about this amazing symbol of
womanhood, some may wonder if there is anything left to be said on the
subject, and that’s where Australian author Kathie Thomas steps in with
her new book, Worth More Than Rubies.
Although the author takes us once more on a visit into the life of
Mrs. 31, she does so from a slightly different angle–that of the incredible value of a work at home mum.
This theme may seem very 21st Century, and yet, in some ways, it is
actually quite similar to that of the example shown in Proverbs 31.
In today’s world, where financial constraints have made it almost
impossible for women to be stay-at-home mothers (something that was not
all that uncommon even one short generation ago), the dream for many is
to be able to have it all–family and career–without having to leave
home. For most, it remains just that–an impossible dream; however, it
doesn’t have to be that way, and Kathie Thomas is quick to encourage
her readers from the sidelines, cheering them on with the message that
if she can do it, why can’t they?
Worth More Than Rubies is, more than anything, the author’s
story. Although there are some hints and tips for running a home
business, the book really isn’t about that. It is the story of a woman
who was an excellent secretary/personal assistant in the corporate
world, but due to changing circumstances and God’s prompting, took the
huge step of turning that experience into a groundbreaking home-based
business. This allowed Kathie to be at home for her five daughters
during their adolescent years–something that proved to be a great
blessing to the whole family. Now, with years of experience under her
belt, she is spurring other women on to consider doing the same thing.
Using a short passage from Proverbs 31 as the starting point for
each chapter, the author follows on with a short devotion-like section
relating to that specific verse, then shares in more detail how this
relates to her own experience. The connection is not always specific to
work-at-home mothers, but as women, it is still very relevant.
While reading Worth More Than Rubies, there were times
where I wished the author had shared more on the actual day to day
running of her home and business when making the connection to the
Proverbs 31 woman. There were also some places where I felt a twinge of
disappointment that she didn’t go a little deeper when speaking of her
life experiences.
Even so, Kathie Thomas has written a pleasant book that is very easy
to read, and I’m sure many women will relate to her experiences, and
may quite possibly even be encouraged to take the step into
work-at-home motherhood for themselves. I am positive that nothing
would give the author greater delight.
Deborah Porter
The autobiography of a successful businesswoman, wife, mother, friend and Christian
Kathie’s book might also be titled “I Am, and You Are – Worth more than Rubies”,
because as she narrates her journey and finds that her life has unfolded magnificently, she’s subtly suggesting to the reader that her
life is just as precious.
I found Kathie’s story compelling – not because she talks about her
effort to establish her own home based business, but because of her
journey. I’m sure her guidance to a woman in the same position is of
help to women readers, but I’m not equipped to talk about that to any
great degree;-)
By the end of the book, you’ll know Kathie, understand her
struggles, and find encouragement from her success at living and
loving.
Steven Tylock
This is one Woman's great picture of Success!
This is one Woman's great picture of success in raising her children and
building a strong home-based business at the same time. Kathie Thomas,
the author, tells us her inspirational and educational story based on
her real life experiences.
Every woman who is struggling to combine her roles as a mother and
contributor to her family budget should read this book. It might be the
answer to your searches!
The book has a strong Christian theme, but even if you don't belong
to Christian faith, you'll find this book very useful. There are
resources provided if you are thinking of starting your home-based
business.
Kathie is a coach too, she is always willing to help other women make their lives easier, more productive and successful.
Olga Kellen
This book is a gem! Kathie Thomas is so real in her writing. It is like you are sitting across the table having a cup of coffee and talking with her. Kathie’s love of her God, husband and family shows through every word. Her willingness to share with others is so genuine.
This book was one of those books that you don't want to put down until you have read every word. Kathie Thomas is so inspiring to the modern women who strives to be the best, wife, mother, business owner she can be. She is a true example of what you focus on becomes a reality.
The resources and bible verses makes this book a resource book that you want to keep on your desk at all times. Thank you Kathie for a true inspiration!
Betty Lynch
Author of "Back to the Table with My Country Kitchen"
