Confession: I love devotional books. But I tend to find one and use it for several years before switching to something new. For example, Jesus Calling and Streams in the Desert have been the books I’ve used for the past seven years. So, while I collect devotionals, I find very few I end up using consistently. 2014 has been a crazy year though, filled with the unexpected. And I have two devotional books I am loving right now … both are new to me this year and neither is a part of my morning quiet time routine. {I’m telling you, I’m all kinds of crazy these days!}
SOLO: An Uncommon Devotional
The first was a gift from Scott for Christmas. SOLO: An Uncommon Devotional has definitely become my new favorite. This is an undated, 365-day devotional and I absolutely love it! The readings begin in Genesis and go through all of Scripture during the course of the year to end in Revelation. Using lectio divina {“divine reading”}, SOLO goes deeper than many devotionals with the typical formula of one or two verses, application story, and sentence prayer. The ancient practice of lectio divina invites the reader to interact with God’s Word using four methods:
- Read: Discover the wisdom and depth of Scripture by reading longer sections of Scripture to gain greater context and understanding.
- Think: Immerse in the passage through meditation on words or phrases or by contemplating specific characters or settings within the verses.
- Pray: Connect with God by exploring different methods of prayer and praise.
- Live: Apply the Word to life through reflection, rest, and action.
I especially like this devotional’s approach of a seventh-day rest. This encourages a time of reflection on what has been read and learned throughout the previous week but also provides a concrete means of living in the rhythm of rest I am finding so valuable to my spiritual growth. Another change I have made with this devotional is using it at night. I’ve always been a “quiet time in the morning” kind of girl and while I still spend time first thing connecting with Scripture, I love having an engaging devotional to use at night.
The One Year Book of Amish Peace
My sweet friend Tricia Goyer sent me a copy of her newest devotional, The One Year Book of Amish Peace, after my heart attack. I am loving it! Amish Peace is dated so I just started it in the middle of May and each day has been a whisper of grace and encouragement to my soul. I have noticed I tend to pick this one up in the middle of the afternoon. You know, that time of day when I start feeling overwhelmed by all the chaos and what is left to be done and how little has been accomplished?? One day this week, I read these words as I contemplated the massive amount of laundry waiting on me:
The thing about most household tasks is that they are so daily. The seem never-ending. They aren’t projects we can mark off our lists and say, “Done.” The same thing is true about seeking God’s strength. We can’t fill up once a month or week; we must turn to Him every day for more.” (157)
This devotional is practical and encouraging. Drawing from the practices and history of the Amish faith, Tricia skillfully blends story and truth to offer the opportunity for “hearing God’s voice in the simple things.” I don’t know about you, but I need that! I need those reminders — daily reminders — of God’s presence, of His plan, and of His great love for me. {And, she might have mentioned me in one of the devotions. Maybe around March 21??}
If you are looking for a devotional for yourself or to give as a gift, both of these books are fabulous! I have provided links to purchase them through Amazon in the “Recommended Resources” widget in my sidebar.
What is your favorite devotional and why do you love it?
{You never know, I may just make a list and share it with everyone!}
xo,
Teri Lynne
For a list of all the books I’ve read this year, please check out my 2014 Reading List. I also have a list of my favorites from 2013 by category you might find helpful. And, of course, if you’re interested, you can find out more about the books I’ve written … Prayers from the Pews and Parenting from the Overflow.
I’m feeling better that you said you have been using Jesus Calling for years. That’s the devotional I keep going back to. I start other devotionals, but never really get into them. For my quiet time, I tend to just read the word. I do like the lectio divina concept of the SOLO devotional. I might have to give that a try.