Here are some of my all-time favorite devotionals that are profound and time efficient:
Best Devotional for a New Believer
This was the first devotional I ever bought for myself when I was at Young Life camp in high school. I continue to go back to it over and over again. It is perfect for a new believer because it has stories of Jesus’ life that are retold like you’re reading a novel. Ken Gire helps you imagine what the breeze on the Sea of Galilee felt like and what the crowd was thinking when Jesus fed the 5,000. He makes it personal. Each daily devotional has the scripture written out, a re-telling of the story, and an application prayer.
Best Christmas (Advent) Devotional
I have tried so many advent (aka counting down to Christmas) devotionals and stopped half-way through. With the busyness of the season it’s more challenging than ever to focus my heart and mind on daily time with the Lord. But, I have mostly completed this devotional the last 3 years, and loved it! Each devotional is a different author, and they are insightful and beautifully written. The contributing authors list is stacked and includes: John Piper, R.C. Sproul, Martin Luther, Timothy Keller, J.I. Packer, and John Calvin – just to name a few.
Best Personal Reflection Devotional
Ok, ok, obviously the best personal reflection devotional in the world would probably take more than 10-15 minutes, but if you’re looking for something quick that also provides directed time for you to look inward, this is a great one. What makes this devotional stand out is that there is directed journaling time that is quick and to the point. Beth Moore takes you through 90 days of the life of Christ that include a scripture, a little commentary, 2-3 personal questions, and a place to write a prayer. Perfect for a newer believer because it tells you exactly what to do. Also, it is pretty. It has frayed pages and looks like a book you would give as a gift or display on a shelf somewhere – preferably high enough where everyone can’t flip through your personal reflections! Only down side: it is big, like the size of a cookbook big. So, not the kind of devotional you’ll want to haul around. She also has one on David, Paul, and John if you want the whole set.
Best Classic Devotional
This one is timeless and has been read by millions. I think the classic edition (original text written in 1935) is better than the updated version, but it can be difficult to understand. I wouldn’t recommend it for a newer believer or adolescent, unless they are on the more intellectual side. It provides a scripture and a very short insightful thought.
Best Books to Use as a Devotional
These are two of my all-time favorite books and I use them regularly as devotionals. The Pursuit of God has a lot of depth, which makes it easier to read one chapter at a time. The Practice of the Presence of God documents Brother Lawrence’s search to be present with God. If you are looking for a way to slow down and connect with the Lord, you will love these. I read a chapter at a time, underline the parts that speak to me, and then journal my thoughts and prayers.