7 Inspiring Facts About Beverly LaHaye Every Christian Should Know

Beverly LaHaye: A Champion for Traditional Christian Values

Introduction

Beverly Jean Davenport LaHaye (1929—2024) was a highly influential figure in the American evangelical Christian community. As a passionate conservative political activist, bestselling writer, and devoted wife of Dr. Tim Francis LaHaye (1926—2016), she played a pivotal role in promoting traditional family values and shaping the landscape of conservative Christian activism.

A Life Rooted in Faith

Early Life and Family

Beverly LaHaye, born in 1929, grew up in Southfield, Michigan. Tragedy struck her family at a young age when her father passed away due to a ruptured appendix. To ensure stability, Beverly's mother remarried, and Beverly and her older sister adopted their stepfather's surname. Although not exceptionally devout at this time, Beverly attended a missions-focused church in Highland Park, Michigan.

College Years and Marriage

After graduating from Highland Park Community High School in 1946, Beverly pursued higher education at Bob Jones University (BJU) in Greenville, South Carolina. It was during her time at BJU that she met Tim LaHaye, who would later become her husband. They married in July 1947 when Beverly was just eighteen years old.

Building a Life Together

Pastoral Ministry and Family Life

Tim LaHaye embarked on a career in pastoral ministry while Beverly chose to support him as a devoted wife and mother. They moved from South Carolina to Minnesota before finally settling in California when Tim became the senior pastor of Scott Memorial Baptist Church in El Cajon. The couple experienced significant growth in their congregation, with the church expanding from three hundred to two thousand members.

Throughout their marriage, Beverly and Tim raised four children: Linda, Larry, Lee, and Lori. As their family grew, so did their ministry. In 1972, they began hosting Family Life Seminars, offering inspiration and guidance to conservative evangelicals on matters of marriage and family.

Writing and Publishing

In 1976, Beverly LaHaye ventured into writing. She co-authored "The Spirit-Controlled Woman" with her husband, a companion book to his earlier work, "The Spirit-Controlled Temperament." Their collaboration continued with the publication of "The Act of Marriage," a guidebook on sexual intimacy for married couples that sold millions of copies.

Over the years, Beverly authored or co-authored over thirty books, including titles such as "Who but a Woman?" (1984), "Understanding Your Child's Temperament" (1997), and "The Desires of a Woman's Heart" (1993). Through her writings, she offered practical advice and encouragement to Christian women seeking to live out their faith in various aspects of life.

Founding Concerned Women for America

Answering the Call

Beverly LaHaye felt compelled by God to provide a platform for Christian women to stand up for traditional family values in the face of the radical feminist movement. In 1979, she founded Concerned Women for America (CWA), which quickly became the leading conservative women's political action organization in the United States.

Protecting Biblical Values

CWA's mission centered around protecting biblical values for Christian women and families through prayer, education, and advocacy. The organization focused on issues such as safeguarding human life for the unborn, defending traditional families, empowering parents in public education, preserving religious liberty, upholding national sovereignty, combating sexual exploitation, and supporting Israel.

Influencing Conservative Politics

Media Presence and Influence

Beverly and Tim LaHaye utilized radio and television platforms to amplify their advocacy for traditional family values. Their programs, including "Beverly LaHaye Live" and "Beverly LaHaye Today," reached millions of viewers and listeners, providing a voice for conservative Christians. Their views resonated with countless evangelicals, significantly shaping the social and political landscape of the time.

Establishing the American Coalition for Traditional Values

In 1985, the LaHayes relocated to Washington, D.C., to further support their activist causes. They established the American Coalition for Traditional Values, building on the foundation laid by Concerned Women for America. By this time, CWA had become the largest public policy women's organization in the nation.

A Lasting Legacy

Retirement and Tim's Passing

Beverly LaHaye retired as president of CWA in 2006, the same year her husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. After a remarkable marriage of sixty-nine years, Tim LaHaye passed away in 2016. Throughout their partnership, he had been Beverly's biggest supporter and encourager.

Remembering Beverly LaHaye

Beverly LaHaye's contribution to conservative Christian politics cannot be overstated. Her passionate defense of traditional family values and her role as a leading voice for evangelical women left an indelible mark on American society. She passed away in April 2024 at the age of ninety-four, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape conservative Christian activism.

Why This Matters

Beverly LaHaye's life exemplifies the impact one person can have when dedicated to their faith and committed to working for God's purposes. Her story serves as an inspiration for Christians who seek to live out their beliefs in a world that often challenges traditional values. Beverly's determination to protect biblical principles continues to resonate with many who desire to see these values upheld in society.

Think About It

Consider how Beverly LaHaye's journey—from a young woman with a desire to serve on the mission field to becoming a prominent figure in conservative Christian activism—demonstrates the power of following God's calling. Reflect on ways you can live out your faith and make a positive impact in your sphere of influence.