Torch, Winter 1985

The Times and the Seasons by Pat Landers Dixon I am thankful for the authors of devotional books because those men and women who give form to their thoughts of adoration, confession , and conviction often speak for me in times when I am mute. These following books are some of my favorites. Whenever I thumb through them, I find related Scripture passages written in the margin, expressive stanzas highlighted by my asterisk, or a thought of personal application penned as an anecdote to some Scriptural principle. I pray that some of these books and excerpts will motivate you into a deepening desire for a fuller and richer devotional life . 1. From Navpress of Colorado Springs, Colorado, you can obtain these helpful books and booklets. "Seven Minutes with God" "How to Spend a Day in Prayer," Lome Sanny Appointment with God Meditation, Jim Downing Devotional Diary "Topical Memory System" Navpress builds on the principle that the devotional life is a unique relationship between man and God which can be matured or stunted, depending on one's attitude and actions. Read these to aid this maturation process. 2. Don't forget the familiar old standard devotional texts. Streams in the Desert, Mrs. Charles E. Cowman (Grand Rapids, Michigan : Zondervan Publish– ing House, 1965) . Morning and Evening , Charles Spurgeon (Grand Rapids, Michigan : Zondervan Publish– ing House , 1980) My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers (Dodd, Mead and Co . , Inc . , 1963) . 3. Renewed Day by Day, A. W. Tozer (Grand Rapids Michigan : Baker Book House, 1980). G. B. Smith compiled selected passages from Dr. Tozer' s books, sermons, and editorials into 366 daily writings: April 14 -As we go on into God we shall see excellency of the life of constant communion where all thoughts and acts are prayers, and the entire life becomes one holy sacrifice of prayer and worship . 4 . Meet Yourself in the Psalms, Warren W. Wiersbe (Wheaton, III : Victor Books, 1983). Although Wiersbe has not geared this to the typical devotional format, you can use it to enhance your meditation upon particular psalms . I have used the "Praying the Psalms" method as a devotional activity: choose a psalm and rewrite it in first person, praying its truths for yourself. 5. Psalms of My Life, Joseph Bayly (Wheaton, III : Tyndale House Publishers, 1976) . I have worn out the small book, Psalms of My Life, through constant use and sharing. A Psalm ofPraise a baby's sweat Thank you God feel that you see contour ofmountains armies march a little lump a sparrowfall taste hear ocean's salt atom's blast my tears 6. A Blade of Grass, Gladys and Gordon DePree (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan Publishing House, 1967). December 7 - Thou dost make him glad with the joy of thy presence (Psalm 21 :6). God is near me... Am I aimless? Ami tired? He is purpose. He is strength . He is present Am I upset? He is joy He is peace. He makes me glad Ami weak-willed? with the joy He is a stay . ofHis presence! Am I worried? May these thoughts He is assurance. fill my mind today! 7. In Transit , David Jeremiah (Wheaton , Ill. : Tyndale House Publishers , 1984) . Writing on twelve New Testament.epistles , Dr. Jeremiah has given Bible readings , a section for prayer requests, and supplementary material which is applicable to the young person 's life . 8 . Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life , Charles R. Swindoll (Portland , Oregon: Multnomah Press , 1983). The book has 144 readings , each with accompanying passages of Scripture and special action steps designed to help you put the lesson of the chapter to personal practice in living a balanced life. Isaiah 32:17-28 - You know something? That still small voice will never shout. God's methods don ' t change because we are so noisy and busy . He is longing for your attention, your undivided andfree attention. He wants to talk with you in times of quietness (with the TV off) about your need for understanding , love , compassion, patience, self-control, a calm spirit, genuine humility . . .and wisdom . Returning to Tozer's Renewed Day by Day , think on this : May 4 - Whatever keeps me from the Bible is my enemy, however harmless it may appear to me. Whatever engages my attention when I should be meditating on God and things eternal does injury to my soul. 7