Every January, millions of us pledge to read our Bibles more — only to fizzle out somewhere in Leviticus. The good news? You don’t have to navigate the wilderness of daily Scripture reading alone. A good devotional is like having a wise, encouraging friend who shows up every morning with a hot cup of coffee and just the right word to keep you going.
Whether you’re diving deep into theology, looking for practical life application, or just hoping to reignite your love for the Word, these eight devotionals will have your back in 2025. Some are classics for a reason; others are fresh voices ready to guide you into the new year.
1. New Morning Mercies by Paul David Tripp
Tripp’s New Morning Mercies is a fan favorite, and for good reason. His knack for weaving gospel truth into everyday life will leave you nodding along and saying, “Yep, that’s exactly what I needed to hear.” Each day’s entry starts with a quick-hit thought and expands into a deeper reflection, making it perfect for anyone looking to connect their faith to real-world struggles and joys.
2. The Bible Recap: A One-Year Guide to Reading and Understanding the Entire Bible by Tara-Leigh Cobble
If your New Year’s resolution involves reading the Bible cover-to-cover, The Bible Recap is your new best friend. Tara-Leigh Cobble’s devotional pairs with a chronological reading plan and helps untangle those head-scratching passages. Bonus: Her podcast companion is the perfect way to supplement your reading on the go.
3. Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman
This devotional might be celebrating 100 years this year, but its insights are as fresh as ever. Written by a missionary who knew the trials of faith firsthand, Streams in the Desert offers encouragement for anyone walking through hard seasons. It’s poetic, deeply reflective and a reminder that God’s promises never expire.
4. Catching Whimsy by Bob Goff
Bob Goff’s newest devotional, Catching Whimsy, invites you to embrace the wonder and whimsy of faith. With his trademark humor and heartfelt stories, Goff encourages readers to approach life with a childlike sense of curiosity and trust. Perfect for anyone looking to add a little more joy and spontaneity to their mornings. Bonus: If you want to hear more about why you should catch whimsy, check out our interview with Goff on The RELEVANT Podcast.
5. In the Lord I Take Refuge: 150 Daily Devotions Through the Psalms by Dane Ortlund
If the Psalms are your comfort food, Ortlund’s devotional is your gourmet meal. Each day walks through a psalm with theological depth and pastoral care, helping you savor the richness of Scripture while connecting it to your daily life. It’s like a heart-to-heart with David, Asaph and company.
6. Embraced: 100 Devotions to Know God Is Holding You Close by Lysa TerKeurst
For those days when life feels overwhelming, Lysa TerKeurst’s Embraced is the perfect reminder that God’s got you. With personal stories and practical applications, this devotional feels like a warm hug from a friend who’s walked where you are and made it through with grace.
7. This Beautiful Truth: How God’s Goodness Breaks into Our Darkness by Sarah Clarkson
Sarah Clarkson doesn’t shy away from the messy, painful parts of life. Her devotional digs deep into the beauty of God’s goodness, even when things don’t make sense. It’s perfect for anyone wrestling with doubt or looking to rediscover hope.
8. My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers
Though dozens of books have been compiled from his notes and personal writings, My Utmost for His Highest remains Oswald Chambers’ most popular book, and one of Christianity’s most beloved devotionals. Originally written for students and young followers of Christ, the book offers readers 365 short yet profound lessons on the fundamentals of Christian life, the Bible, prayer and serving others.
So, whether you’re a seasoned Bible scholar or someone who still thinks Habakkuk is a typo, these devotionals are here to help you stay consistent, inspired and rooted in your faith. Because let’s face it: life is busy, messy and unpredictable — but your quiet time doesn’t have to be. So, grab your highlighter and your favorite mug. 2025 is going to be your year.
