Comforts from Romans: Celebrating the Gospel One Day at a Time

by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick

Although we may go to bed at night believing the gospel, we wake up every morning needing to hear it again. Yet most of us don’t have time to dive into a lengthy commentary on the book of Romans―the book Paul wrote in order to showcase the glorious riches of the gospel. Thankfully seasoned counselor and author Elyse Fitzpatrick makes the message of Romans readily accessible in 31 devotional-like chapters on what Martin Luther called “the very purest Gospel.” Perfect for even the busiest of us, Elyse helps us grasp the practicality of the gospel message and experience the deep comforts articulated in the book of Romans.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Devotional, Faith, Christian Living, Theology, Spirituality

157 pages, Paperback

First published January 31, 2013

About the author

Author of 20+ books on the Christian life and the gospel's impact on everyday living, Elyse is a frequent speaker at women's conferences nationally and internationally.

Elyse's ministry is summed up in these simple words: No fluff, No bricks, just the good news of a crucified and risen Christ.

In 1971 she married her sweetheart Phil and together they raised three children and are enjoying six really adorable grandchildren.

Together they attend Valley Center Community Church in the hills of the North County of San Diego where Phil is an elder.

Reviews

[Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romans is an amazing book, and this devotional is a wonderful look at its teachings and how to apply them in daily life. The author’s testimony in the back was powerful, too.

However, what keeps this from getting a perfect score is the inclusion of a profanity. While it may be only one—and a “mild” one at that—Christian readers are likely to be shocked that any such expletives found their way into a book like this.

[Mandy J. Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome devotional / commentary of the first 8 chapters of Romans. Elyse helps you dig into the hard sections and connect them to your life.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really encouraged by this book! I highly recommend this book, and all of Elyse Fitzpatrick's books, to anyone!

[Mathew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Comforts from Romans is a tour de force of gospel goodness. Elyse moves expositionally through Romans unpacking the gospel in each section. The book is structured for use as a daily devotion. Elyse makes it through the end of Romans 8 in 32 days. This book is part joyful worship, part balm for the weary soul, part hope for the hopeless, and part redounding proclamation of the greatness of God in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

We’ve come to think of the word devotional in terms of Our Daily Bread or Ligonier’s Table Talk (both helpful in their own right) but J. I. Packer says,
Whatever the reason, the fact is there, and our idea of devotion appears foreshortened. Once it signified adhering to God, the Father, the Son and the Spirit, in loyalty and love with all one’s heart, mind, soul, and strength; a single-minded concetration on praising and pleasing God as our life’s key activities. And included in the understanding of devotion was an appetite for learning wisdom from didactiv study and exposition of Scripture (Puritan Portraits “Prologue”).
Comforts from Romans fits nicely in with Packer’s description of devotion. Elyse will make you hunger and thirst after God and her single-minded focus on the gospel will drive you to depend on Christ alone and drive you to love our God, Father, Son, and Spirit, with your heart, mind, soul, and strength. What I also liked about this devotional compared to others was that each section was slightly longer than your average “devotional.” Most of the time you get about a half a page blurb. With this book you’re getting two or three pages of gospel rich soil (again nothing against shorter devotional but it’s nice to see variety).

My only complaint was I was left wanting more. Why stop at Romans 8? Even with her purpose in mind, why not finish the book and do 60 days or 90 days worth of devotional? I would urge Elyse to keep writing these kinds of devotional. Why not write them for every New Testament book? Ambitious but would serve the church well and and teach others how to do these as they read through the Bible. Overall this book is a can’t miss.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is rare, unfortunately, to find a devotional that is also theologically rich. Elyse Fitzpatrick has delivered exactly that with this book. With 31 daily readings from the first eight chapters of Romans, I was captivated by the gospel each day. This book is helpful to every believer, no matter what level of spiritual maturity they have reached. It is also a great book for a seeker who would like to spend a month checking out what the gospel is all about.

One of the greatest strengths of this book is that Mrs. Fitzpatrick does an incredible job taking context into consideration. So many devotional works treat Scripture like fortune cookies, giving you a pithy little saying with some fluffy explanation. This book will give the reader an understanding of the big picture of Romans and the main points Paul was driving home to his readers.

I highly recommend this book. My biggest complaint is that I didn't want it to be over when I finished. I found myself saying, "No! Don't stop at Romans 8!" I don't know what Mrs. Fitzpatrick's plans are, but I hope she follows this up with another book on the second half of Romans.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

How many times should we hear the gospel? If our hearts grow calloused of hearing it, then there is something wrong with our hearts. As Ms. Fitzpatrick so wonderfully says, we should be like children saying again! again!. Romans, is the gospel. Israel missed Jesus because his glory was hidden in weakness and humility and we too can miss him for the very same reasons, when we do not apply the Gospel in our every day living. Each short chapter is walk thru Romans and how to apply to Gospel. It is as simple as believing. in faith, when we believe in the work of Christ, we are transformed with grace and thankfulness. The law shows our utter despair and to go from trusting in ourselves to trusting ourselves to God, believing that he is as good as his word.

Romans is grace filled. That is where our hearts are transformed. The law shows the condition of our heart, but grace shows the goodness of God. Romans gives us a better understanding of the law and grace. They do are pitted against each other, but when dealt with correctly, give us great freedom to love and to be loved. There is much to love about the book of Romans and this book is a great start to get you there.

[Barbara Harper · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mixed emotions about this one. It had a lot of helpful teaching in it, but a few theological quibbles with it keeps from from being completely comfortable enough to endorse it. My full review is here: http://barbarah.wordpress.com/2013/04...

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best books I've read. Beautiful, deep, real, honest, convicting, encouraging... it's full of grace and Gospel goodness. I should read it at least once a year.

[Cassie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed Comforts from Romans overall. It was an encouraging book. I was reading Packer’s Knowing God, which ends on Romans 8, at the same time, which affected my reading of CfR in that CfR is written at a more obvious or surface level and KG is extremely rich. Some passages of CfR seemed more appropriate for a children’s book, which was annoying. All that said, it would be a great book to give to a young believer.

[Elaine Glafenhein · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful, insightful look at the first 8 chapters of Romans.

[Alexis Neal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Counselor and author Elyse Fitzpatrick's devotional study of the book of Romans. The book is broken up into 32 daily meditations, each under 10 minutes, as well as an introduction and appendices. Fitzpatrick's focus is on, well, the Gospel--specifically, the finished work of Christ on the cross. In fact, she focuses so much on Christ's finished work that she winds up sounding (at least to this recovering legalist) borderline antinomian. Not explicitly antinomian, mind you--she is adamant that the completeness of Christ's work in freeing us from the law should not result in lawlessness. But she is clearly focused on undoing the evils of legalism and salvation by works, the earning of God's favor by our own efforts. And good on her for taking that bull by the horns. But as someone who is all to willing to tolerate my own sin, I know I need a good kick in the pants and a healthy dose of teaching on how to fight the sin from which I have been set free.

To be fair, Fitzpatrick tries to offer teaching on this subject. But her examples--parking in a 'no parking at night' zone--leave much to be desired. If Jesus died so that I no longer have to obey the parking rules, why shouldn't I 'honor' Him by parking wherever I want in a demonstration of the freedom He's given me? But sin is not merely a violation of some silly 'malum prohibitum' rule--it is inherently wrong, and it's wrongness does not change just because of my salvation. I am free from the law--yes! But the law is still a reflection of the character of the God who bought me, and I must strive to honor Him by obeying it. Of course, I don't actually strive. I've much too lazy and self-satisfied for that. But I should. Not because I am earning my salvation. But because my obedience--made possible by His grace and strength--brings glory to the God I love. All of which Fitzpatrick agrees with ... I just would have liked more focus on how to fight sin well. Still, I don't think anything she said was wrong, and all in all, this is a very helpful review of the Gospel.

And unlike the rather in-your-face titling of books like What is the Gospel? or Am I Really a Christian?, Fitzpatrick chose a much more innocuous title. This means that you could easily gift this book to someone who (perhaps mistakenly) self-identifies as a Christian without proclaiming straight-off your doubts about their salvation. If the recipient is a Christian, then Fitzpatrick's meditations will be a great encouragement and reminder of the Gospel that is so dear to Christians. If the recipient is not a Christian, at least they will hear an explicit presentation of the Gospel. Every day. For 32 days.

Narrator Tavia Gilbert (who, according to Audible, has quite a collection of audiobooks under her belt, of both the Christian variety and the ... well, whatever the word is for 'half-naked dude on the cover') does an excellent job here, investing the text with a warmth and enthusiasm that fits well with the celebratory nature of the work. Fitzpatrick is encouraging her readers to savor the Gospel, and Gilbert's tone suits this purpose down to the ground. And at less than 10 minutes a section, the book works well as a daily devotional for those on the go--it fits easily into most commutes or even a brief mid-morning coffee break.

Recommended for those looking for a good daily meditation on the Gospel, or as a gift for those who may need a clearer understanding of the Gospel they claim to believe.

I received this audiobook for free from ChristianAudio.com in connection with their Reviewer program. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Roger Leonhardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a great audiobook!

The book of Romans is probably the clearest presentation of the Gospel in the entire Bible. A person could spend years and still not exhaust it's depths. For years, I have collected commentaries on this epistle. When I saw there was an audio version of this one, I was very interested.

At first, I was a little reluctant to read it. The design of the cover made it seem like it was written exclusively for women. I was so wrong!

It consists of small chucks of theology in devotional form. There are 31 chapters. In each chapter, Fitzpatrick focuses on the subject of each passage.

Normally, I do not care for devotionals. Many seem like fluff with a scripture added at the end. That was not the case here. I can only describe this book as "Living Theology". Each day takes you from doctrine to application. The focus on each subject keeps you interested. If you use it as a devotional, you will find yourself so interested that you move to the next day ahead of time.

It was a great read, or in my case "listen". The audio part of the book is as good as the material itself. Many books are good, but the narration does not do the writing justice. I have listened to hundreds of audio books over the years and Tavia Gilbert is one of the best narrators I have heard. I even searched for other books she has narrated.


You can purchase this audiobook here:


http://christianaudio.com/comforts-fr...

I highly recommend it and give it 5 out of 5 stars.

I received this book, free of charge, from Christianaudio.com and Crossway books, in exchange for an honest review.

[Yonasan Aryeh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fitzpatrick opens the book with a quote from Martin Luther about the importance of the truths contained within the book of Romans, and that the book is so important that it should be our daily bread of our souls. It is with this beginning that she points to how often she needs to hear the Gospel, and how quickly she loses sight of Him and focuses on Facebook instead. The world is tugging at us in so many different directions, and it can be easy to lose sight of what's truly important. Fitzpatrick asserts that when she fails to read the Gospel, she hungers spiritually. Despite this hunger, she gets distracted and despairs out of hunger as a result of filling her soul with things other than HaShem.

Gilbert's narration has always been a mark of excellence, and this endeavor is no different. Gilbert illuminates the text and gives our ears the inflection and understanding they need to hear the author's truest intent. Poetic and spaced, Gilbert's reading of the book allows the listener to tune in and sit back. Perhaps the only struggle with the narration is that it requires one to focus intently on the subject matter, but that is not a fault of the narrator, as the content is one of focus.

Not best for background audio while driving, this audiobook fits a Sunday afternoon while leaning back in a chair on the patio, sweet tea and Bible in hand as the birds chirp in the distance. Yes, it's that kind of book. That kind of book precisely.

[Sarah Norton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This daily devotional from Elyse Fitzpatrick is excellent and is meant to be a companion to your own reading and study of the book of Romans. Elyse spends 32 days touching on each chapter and expounding on the meatiest parts of each chapter. Elyse doesn't shy away from tackling hard topics and giving the truth to you with a no holds barred approach.

Romans is a very meaty and challenging book but comforting at the same time and Elyse does justice to both of those aspects. I have studied Romans 3 times, once in a sermon series at church and twice in a personal study with a friend and I am still blown by the truths it holds and what I forget about those truths. If you are looking for a birds-eye view of Romans that also digs deep into specific passages this is the devotional for you.

My only criticism is found in Appendix 2 were Elyse shares her testimony then the gospel more clearly. She ends the appendix with a sinners prayer and guidance in finding a good local church. I think I understand her reasons for including this, but I personally have a problem with sinners prayers and was a little disappointed that she ends once.

That aside, I do highly recommend this book and was greatly encouraged by it.

[Ian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elyse Fitzpatrick has done it again with this superb set of 32 devotions on Romans. Fitzpatrick has a way of unpacking the wonder of the gospel in a way that makes you want more of Jesus. Her words sooth, challenge and provoke you to soak in God's immense love for us. Not only does she engage the mind but more significantly she stirs your heart in wanting more of that immense love.

There are 32 devotions that cover the first eight chapters of Romans. I do hope she goes onto prepare another books for the remaining chapters. I'd love to read her thoughts on Romans 12, in particular, one of my favourite chapters in the Bible.

Fitzpatrick takes a verse and unpacks it in a practical way that is enlightening and comforting.

Certainly this isn't a commentary of the book but Fitzpatrick credits having read many of the great commentators versions and she brings some of the fruit she gained from those in adding to her thoughts on each verse. I've been reading this alongside John Stott's commentary and have appreciated the different tone and perspective Fitzpatrick brings to the verses she covers in this book.

Highly recommended.

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was one of the resources I used, as I studied Romans 1-8 with a group of women. Fitzpatrick's devotionals were thought-provoking, challenging, and gave excellent illustrations and examples. I ended up purchasing a copy for each woman when the study was over, simply because they found her reflections so helpful. That said, her "Comforts from the Cross" I loved even better than this one! They are BOTH recommended reading for believing women who want to delve deeper into the delights of loving Jesus, and - even more - the delights of being infinitely and extravagantly loved by Him.

[Rachel Lundy · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all need to be reminded of the beauty of the gospel and the hope that we have in Christ Jesus. In this 32 day devotion book, Elyse Fitzpatrick takes the reader into the book of Romans and shows the grace, security, and comfort that is ours when we repent of our sins and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Whether you are a new believer or an older believer, prepare to be dazzled again by the amazing beauty of the gospel!

[Alexander · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Comforts from Romans", Elyse Fitzpatrick offers a wonderful balance between sound theology and practical application. She divides this study into 32 short lessons, which are great as a daily devotional. My wife and I began reading this together shortly after a significant trial in our lives and found Fitzpatrick's application of timeless truths to be exactly what we needed.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this a wonderful companion to the Book of Romans. While Romans has always has been a favorite walk for me, this time through I found it a real struggle. I was easily distracted and unsettled. Seeing it through Elyse's eyes made it a beautiful journey, bringing comfort to my soul. I am grateful.

[Karla Osorno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Savored Romans and the comforts provided by the author’s insights in Comforts from Romans. Divinely, our church and BSF are studying Romans at the same time. Remembering the truths more than ever with this sweet time. Thank you to authors like Elyse M. Fitzpatrick who share personal insights while remaining true to scripture and the gospel.

[Liz Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great devotional on the first 8 chapters of Romans. Elyse does a great job really highlighting the overall themes into a couple of pages that are easily read and digested each day. I enjoyed going through this and am looking forward to starting Comforts from the Cross for my next devotional!

[Ann Kietzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helps the reader to understand how the message contained in the book of Romans can be applied to everyday life. A wonderful study guide for those just starting on their Christian path or a long time believer.

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fabulous! It has really helped me understand the true impact and scope of the gospel. Great accompaniment to any study of Romans or if you just desire a good devotional book. It is well worth the purchase!

[Kalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A friend recommended this book as I was looking for something to jumpstart my quite time each day. I was so convicted by this one! The author really integrates the gospel into every part of your life and you will stop taking God's grace and love for granted. Very thought-provoking!

[Kaysie Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this book on tape. It's meant to be a devotional and so I probably didn't get as much out of it as if I had read a chapter a day instead of listening to it while I did housework. But I love the book of Romans so it had some good reminders in there.

[Karissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written devotional style commentary on the first eight chapters of Romans all about the “good news”-God’s amazing love for us and His sacrifice to prove that love. In times of doubt, a good book to re-read. Looking forward to reading other books by this author.

[Michelle's Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. This book cover is on my Pinterest board and my blog, Michelle Dragalin’s Journey.

[Zinnada Hodges · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book that helped me to be reminded of the gospel daily.

[Ce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great daily short readings to encourage your soul and remind you of the grace that makes us free in Christ.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this author, she takes verses in Romans and explains them in easy to understand terms.