The One Year Book of Poetry: A Year of Christian Verse

The One Year Book of Poetry: 365 Devotional Readings Based on Classic Christian Verse, Compiled and Written by Philip Comfort and Daniel Partner

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good repute, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – think on these things” (Phil. 4:8).

I’m not what I would call an avid poetry-lover, but with my education in literature, I do appreciate and enjoy it, and I have some favorite poets. This book was recommended by a friend, and I liked the idea of reading about the things of God written in verse form. This volume provides exactly what the sub-title states: a short poetry reading accompanied by some devotional commentary for each day of the year. The writers often include some background about the poet and some interpretive help (particularly for those older works which use more archaic language). They then draw a connection between the ideas and emotions expressed in the poem to the related ideas or doctrinal teachings found in Scripture, and end with a word of application to the reader and a relevant scripture passage.

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Daily Readings from the “Prince of Preachers”

Morning and Evening: Daily Readings by Charles H. Spurgeon

“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night…And whatever he does shall prosper” (Psalm 1: 2-3).

From strength to strength go on;
Wrestle, and fight, and pray,
Tread all the powers of darkness down,
And win the well-fought day.
 
No neutralities can exist in religion. We are either ranked under the banner of Prince Immanuel, to serve and fight His battles, or we are vassals of the black prince, Satan. To whom belongest thou?

C. H. Spurgeon, "The Prince of Preachers&...
C. H. Spurgeon, “The Prince of Preachers” (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Charles Haddon Spurgeon was an English preacher who lived from 1834-1892 and is known for his bold sermons and writings. Spurgeon became a pastor at age 20 and preached over 3000 sermons during his lifetime. His largest and probably best-known work is his Treasury of David, a seven volume collection of sermons on the Psalms. At our church, we almost think of Spurgeon as an honorary elder because our pastors and teachers value and draw from his works so much. I’ve had the intention of reading a major work by Spurgeon for years and finally decided this year to go through his Morning and Evening devotionals, and I am finding it a tremendous blessing. Continue reading “Daily Readings from the “Prince of Preachers””