Many housewives struggle with the idea of being profitable within the confines of their home. Washing dishes and changing diapers is certainly not always attractive. The excerpts which will follow periodically are to encourage mothers and housewives in their very important ministry of “guid

[ing] the house” (I Timothy 5:14).

Some background to this diary: In doing some research for another project I have been privileged to have in my possession the personal diary of Mrs. Emily Kelk. Emily was married in the Metropolitan Tabernacle in March 1882 to Thomas Kelk where they attended during the ministry of Rev. C. H. Spurgeon and where Thomas served as the assistant superintendent to Spurgeon’s Orphanage. There are some very interesting and never-before-seen insights into Mr. Spurgeon’s ministry which will appear in following excerpts from the diary (© 2011; published here with permission).

“Nov. 20th 1881, Sunday. Previous to this day I had been reading the memoirs of Mrs. M. Winslow a truly precious woman and her letters and diary are of a truly spiritual character. I can honestly say that while reading it my heart was drawn out in earnest desire to emulate her close and holy walk while shame filled my heart that I had attained to no nearer likeness to Jesus, no higher understanding of the glorious effect of “walking with” him in close communion. The result was freedom and delight in prayer. Prayer for friends and relatives and also our pastor arose from my heart.”