What do you think?
Rate this book
Restoration Year: Devotions to Transform Your Relationships, Spirit, and Faith (A 365-Day Devotional) – The Perfect Christian New Year's Resolution Gift for Men
We all need to believe in radical hope; that our lives can be fuller, our relationships can be stronger, and our futures are bright. This 365-day devotional, by New York Times bestselling author John Eldredge, will guide you through a year of healing, restoration, and renewal. Each day, Eldredge shares a timeless Bible verse, a thoughtful devotion, and a closing prayer to encourage and uplift you as you go about your day with optimism and peace. Inspired by Eldredge's bestsellers Wild at Heart , Captivating , Fathered by God , and more, Restoration Year will equip you to pursue lasting transformation in your relationships, in your spirit, and in your faith. As you read your way through Restoration Year, you'll find your hope ignited as you learn how to: Let this year be your restoration year!
400 pages, Hardcover
Published December 4, 2018
393 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
John Eldredge
228 books1,937 followersJohn Eldredge is an American author, counselor, and lecturer on Christianity. He is known for his best-selling book Wild at Heart.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
February 3, 2019
Restoration. There’s something about that word that I absolutely love. It brings to mind a renewal of all things good. And ultimately, complete restoration makes me think of the new heaven and new earth God has prepared for those who put their trust in Him. So when I spotted this devotional, Restoration Year by John Eldredge, I knew I had to get my hands on it.
I’ll give you a really quick look at the devotional, Restoration Year:
RESTORATION YEAR PROS: –It’s one of the loveliest looking devotionals on the market. It has a hard back covering with a beautiful nature design, ribbon bookmark so you can easily find where you last left off, and glossy pages with the same lovely design echoed from the front cover design. -The devotional entries are basic but relevant to everyday life. RESTORATION YEAR CONS: -Some may find the entries too basic. -There was at least one theological issue that I found mildly concerning.
The Nitty Gritty of Restoration Year:
Seriously, this is the most beautiful devotional I own. So if you are a lover of beautiful books, Restoration Year may be a worthwhile consideration for you. The entries of the devotional generally have an encouraging, hopeful tone with a Bible verse as the central theme to build the devotional on and every entry ends with a final nugget of truth directed just to you, the reader.
There was one theological issue that I found mildly concerning, key emphasis on the word mildly. John Eldredge writes on January 14th’s entry, “I’ve fallen back to thinking that to love Jesus is to give my very best in living for him.” He talks about–in this entry and the next–how we shouldn’t try so hard in our Christian life because trying hard is falling into doing things in our own strength. I get what he means, but I think the couple of entries could have been worded better. If he had balanced his language more carefully, the entries wouldn’t have an issue whatsoever. Again this is just a slight issue, but I thought I would mention it.
Overall, Restoration Year is an encouraging devotional that is uplifting to read and look at.
I’ll give you a really quick look at the devotional, Restoration Year:
RESTORATION YEAR PROS: –It’s one of the loveliest looking devotionals on the market. It has a hard back covering with a beautiful nature design, ribbon bookmark so you can easily find where you last left off, and glossy pages with the same lovely design echoed from the front cover design. -The devotional entries are basic but relevant to everyday life. RESTORATION YEAR CONS: -Some may find the entries too basic. -There was at least one theological issue that I found mildly concerning.
The Nitty Gritty of Restoration Year:
Seriously, this is the most beautiful devotional I own. So if you are a lover of beautiful books, Restoration Year may be a worthwhile consideration for you. The entries of the devotional generally have an encouraging, hopeful tone with a Bible verse as the central theme to build the devotional on and every entry ends with a final nugget of truth directed just to you, the reader.
There was one theological issue that I found mildly concerning, key emphasis on the word mildly. John Eldredge writes on January 14th’s entry, “I’ve fallen back to thinking that to love Jesus is to give my very best in living for him.” He talks about–in this entry and the next–how we shouldn’t try so hard in our Christian life because trying hard is falling into doing things in our own strength. I get what he means, but I think the couple of entries could have been worded better. If he had balanced his language more carefully, the entries wouldn’t have an issue whatsoever. Again this is just a slight issue, but I thought I would mention it.
Overall, Restoration Year is an encouraging devotional that is uplifting to read and look at.
November 24, 2018
If you are like me you had an awakening when reading Wild at Heart. As the journey continues and more of John Eldridge's writings are digested, I wanted more! More to reflect on, more truth, more depth in my walk. And here it is! I am privileged to get a chance to review an advanced copy, and now I am saying to everyone: GET THIS BOOK! make it part of your daily routine, walk it, and take it all in! Once again- well done #JohnEldridge #RestorationYear
January 2, 2020
This was a helpful book when I needed it and I feel comfortable having not finished it in precisely a year. I am excited to return to it on any given day and simply open to the page for that day.
December 19, 2023
What a treat to enjoy this rich, hopeful devotional each day. John Eldredge’s wisdom often stops me in my tracks and gives me something new to ponder for hours. I need more hope in my life, and this book is helping me find it. It’s showing me many hidden areas which need reformation and restoration. I’m so grateful for it. It’s also a beautiful book with a nice finish on the cover.
I purchased my own copy from CBD.
I purchased my own copy from CBD.
December 16, 2018
John Eldredge is one of my go-to authors for spiritual development books. I was absolutely thrilled to see a year-long devotional as his newest book: “Restoration Year”.
First, I must say that this book is beautiful. The textured hardcover, cover design, glossy paper, and ribbon marker make this book a joy to receive either as a gift, or for yourself. The inside of the book is lovely, with a greenery design adorning each day’s page. Perhaps this could also make an excellent Christmas gift for someone you know, as a devotional beginning in January would be perfect timing, although it could also be read beginning at any time of year.
The written content is wonderful as well. Much of it reminds me of the Ransomed Heart email newsletter I often receive. Each day’s reading begins with a Bible verse followed by a discussion of the practical ways we can be influenced by that verse. Each day’s reading is concluded by either a prayer, a question to help you get to know your own heart and the heart of God, or an inspirational idea or challenge. I appreciate that each day’s reading is very short. I find it difficult to keep up to year-long readings that are excessively long, but that will not be a problem here as I haven’t found any one longer than a single page.
Needless to say the theme for this book is restoration, making it a great choice of daily devotional for anyone, whether you are seeking restoration in your relationship with God, a better connection with people, or hope for your future, and I encourage you to pick up this book for your own “Restoration Year”.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
First, I must say that this book is beautiful. The textured hardcover, cover design, glossy paper, and ribbon marker make this book a joy to receive either as a gift, or for yourself. The inside of the book is lovely, with a greenery design adorning each day’s page. Perhaps this could also make an excellent Christmas gift for someone you know, as a devotional beginning in January would be perfect timing, although it could also be read beginning at any time of year.
The written content is wonderful as well. Much of it reminds me of the Ransomed Heart email newsletter I often receive. Each day’s reading begins with a Bible verse followed by a discussion of the practical ways we can be influenced by that verse. Each day’s reading is concluded by either a prayer, a question to help you get to know your own heart and the heart of God, or an inspirational idea or challenge. I appreciate that each day’s reading is very short. I find it difficult to keep up to year-long readings that are excessively long, but that will not be a problem here as I haven’t found any one longer than a single page.
Needless to say the theme for this book is restoration, making it a great choice of daily devotional for anyone, whether you are seeking restoration in your relationship with God, a better connection with people, or hope for your future, and I encourage you to pick up this book for your own “Restoration Year”.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
November 27, 2018
I have absolutely loved everything that John and Stasi Eldredge have written and this devotional is no different. Because John is a counselor and minister by trade, the entries in this devotional are geared towards your heart's cry for relationship with your Maker and Savior. So many well-meaning devotional guides lean more towards head knowledge. While there is nothing wrong with better knowing and understanding the scriptures and their context, it is fantastic to have one that leans more towards heart knowledge.
Unlike their prior devotional, which included excerpts from their various book, this one has completely original thoughts. Each day starts with a scripture verse, expounds on that for a few paragraphs and how we hold that truth to our day, and ends with a brief prayer. Each day is only a page and so you can get a great deal of depth in just a few moments and meditate on it throughout the day to glean more truths.
Having read John's book "All Things New" last year, I love this theme of restoration. Jesus is coming, friends - and He will restore all things to how they should be. Let this be your restoration year as well!
Special thanks to Thomas Nelson Publisher and Ransomed Heart Ministries for an advanced copy of this devotional. I was not required to write a review and all opinions contained herein are my own.
Unlike their prior devotional, which included excerpts from their various book, this one has completely original thoughts. Each day starts with a scripture verse, expounds on that for a few paragraphs and how we hold that truth to our day, and ends with a brief prayer. Each day is only a page and so you can get a great deal of depth in just a few moments and meditate on it throughout the day to glean more truths.
Having read John's book "All Things New" last year, I love this theme of restoration. Jesus is coming, friends - and He will restore all things to how they should be. Let this be your restoration year as well!
Special thanks to Thomas Nelson Publisher and Ransomed Heart Ministries for an advanced copy of this devotional. I was not required to write a review and all opinions contained herein are my own.
January 1, 2019
John Eldredge is an accomplished author of many books that are encouragements to both men and women, and this devotional is no exception. Eldredge writes in a way that is direct, challenging and encouraging.
In this devotional there are 365 days worth of daily meditations, filled with a Scripture, small devotional reading and either a prayer, question for further study or helpful quote. Those who enjoy having a set, pre made devotional ready to read at a certain point in their day will find it quite useful. Every section is portioned out by months and easily accessed if there were to be a period that the reader needs to catch up on.
I enjoyed the chance to read this devotional for review. This book would be applicable to both men and women. I feel that ages 12 years and up could gain spiritual insight and support from this daily devotional. This would also be good for a new believer, as John writes (and speaks) in a way that is easily relatable. He has experience with speaking to a wide audience, and as such, this book would have appeal to just about anyone. The cover design is eye catching and the weight of the paper used in the book is heavy. This would make a lovely gift for someone who needs a specific regimented daily devotional.
In this devotional there are 365 days worth of daily meditations, filled with a Scripture, small devotional reading and either a prayer, question for further study or helpful quote. Those who enjoy having a set, pre made devotional ready to read at a certain point in their day will find it quite useful. Every section is portioned out by months and easily accessed if there were to be a period that the reader needs to catch up on.
I enjoyed the chance to read this devotional for review. This book would be applicable to both men and women. I feel that ages 12 years and up could gain spiritual insight and support from this daily devotional. This would also be good for a new believer, as John writes (and speaks) in a way that is easily relatable. He has experience with speaking to a wide audience, and as such, this book would have appeal to just about anyone. The cover design is eye catching and the weight of the paper used in the book is heavy. This would make a lovely gift for someone who needs a specific regimented daily devotional.
February 25, 2019
Are you searching for more...significance, love, adventure? Are your past hurts causing more than just emotional pain? God's desire is for you to move pas the hurt by discovering a new passion for God, developing healthy relationships and experiencing hope for the future.
John Eldredge's 365-day devotional, "Restoration Year", will encourage you to make significant changes in your heart and mind and follow God with your whole heart. Each day features scripture, a short devotional message, and a closing prayer or challenge to equip you in your pursuit of transformation and restoration. Some are easy, some are more difficult, but it is all worth it for the renewal you desire.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booklook Bloggers, as part of Thomas Nelson‘s Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
John Eldredge's 365-day devotional, "Restoration Year", will encourage you to make significant changes in your heart and mind and follow God with your whole heart. Each day features scripture, a short devotional message, and a closing prayer or challenge to equip you in your pursuit of transformation and restoration. Some are easy, some are more difficult, but it is all worth it for the renewal you desire.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booklook Bloggers, as part of Thomas Nelson‘s Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
March 19, 2019
This is a 365 day devotional by John Eldredge. It reminds me of Sarah Young's Jesus Calling, except this devotional is for mature Christians. This devotional is hardcovered and great to carry with you wherever life may take you. Every day is dated and there is a bookmark to hold your place. The layout of this devotional has a nice flow: It starts with a verse then below that there is the devotional/commentary portion (a paragraph or two) and it ends with a prayer, question or statement to ponder upon throughout the rest of your day.
I've really been enjoying this devotional the past few weeks. It takes less than 10 minutes and really has challenged me to focus on what I've read throughout my day.
I highly recommend this devotional! Like I said if you are a newer Christian it may be a little bit of a challenge but for the more mature Christian this is definitely a great tool to use throughout your walk with God.
DISCLAIMER: I received this book for free in return for my honest review by Booklookbloggers.com
I've really been enjoying this devotional the past few weeks. It takes less than 10 minutes and really has challenged me to focus on what I've read throughout my day.
I highly recommend this devotional! Like I said if you are a newer Christian it may be a little bit of a challenge but for the more mature Christian this is definitely a great tool to use throughout your walk with God.
DISCLAIMER: I received this book for free in return for my honest review by Booklookbloggers.com
December 6, 2018
The Restoration Year Devotional is an answer to prayer! This year has been the most difficult and soul wearying year of my life, and that may be putting it lightly 😞. I knew I needed soul care in the coming year to bring restoration to all the lifeless parts of me, but I didn’t even know where to start. Ransomed Heart has always spoken to me and brings me back to God when I am dry and lose my way. God used this ministry to anchor me to Himself during the hurricane going on in my life. If you’ve never checked them out....you should. (ramsomedheart.com) And do your soul a favor and get this devotional!! Restoration Year would make a great Christmas present too, because who couldn’t use some restoration and refreshing in their life? Trust me, you do not want to miss out on this devotional! Get it now and start January 1st! Stop making resolutions you won’t keep and get a hold of something that will really change your life! Can’t say enough!
February 2, 2019
What gorgeous artwork on the outer covering of this beautiful hardcover devotional book! Plus, the inside layout appearance is easy to navigate through with daily readings upon each page for the entire year. The endnotes include a prayer, bibliography, books by the author, and sources by date. A ribbon bookmark is quite useful, too. What I especially like are a simple topic title at the top of each page, below that is scripture, then John's inspiring writings, and toward the bottom of the page, you'll find a prayer or a question. I find John's writings simple, yet complex at times, and I am eager to read more. The details in his word craftmanship are brilliant. He shows us our limited understanding as we ponder through our own point of view. But always John points us to God's perspective in His word. It's God's word that brings us an unquenchable hope. I think this is why this particular devotional is so special. Highly recommend Restoration Year!
December 5, 2019
Having read all of Eldredge's books, except interestingly enough the latest one "All Things New", I've loved walking through 2019 with this devotional by my side. Each day's one page entry is very simple:
- a verse
- some words from one of his many books
- a short reflection prompt/prayer to 'experience' the devotional words.
Yes, most of the themes connect with restoration of the heart which one might suggest is a prominent theme across most of Eldredge's writings.
If you're an Eldredge fan it really is a must-read and for people new to his wisdom it's a bite sized taste of his passion for sharing the heart of God.
There's a very good chance I'll take it with me into 2020.
- a verse
- some words from one of his many books
- a short reflection prompt/prayer to 'experience' the devotional words.
Yes, most of the themes connect with restoration of the heart which one might suggest is a prominent theme across most of Eldredge's writings.
If you're an Eldredge fan it really is a must-read and for people new to his wisdom it's a bite sized taste of his passion for sharing the heart of God.
There's a very good chance I'll take it with me into 2020.
December 21, 2018
I don't typically read / do devotionals, but this one is a must read! I can't wait to get to tomorrow to read that day. That's why I say this is a "page turner".
I started in December and so far, most days are not only thought provoking, but also stir my spirit. I am left chewing on an idea for the rest of the day. Suddenly, it's the next day and another great read. I like the flow of each day with an idea or question at the bottom of each page. Plus, each day seems to flow into the next.
I highly recommend this book. You can start any day of the year! So, why not?
I started in December and so far, most days are not only thought provoking, but also stir my spirit. I am left chewing on an idea for the rest of the day. Suddenly, it's the next day and another great read. I like the flow of each day with an idea or question at the bottom of each page. Plus, each day seems to flow into the next.
I highly recommend this book. You can start any day of the year! So, why not?
March 13, 2019
This book is a year long devotional with a theme of restoration. There is a one page devotion for each date of the year. Each page included a Bible verse, some commentary that is loosely or directly tied to that Bible verse, and a short prayer. The author did a good job of staying focused on God. I'm not a big fan of these super-short devotions, but I did enjoy this one and felt that the author made some good points worth thinking about throughout the day.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through Amazon Vine.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through Amazon Vine.
December 3, 2018
I avidly read John and Stasi Eldredges' books and am excited about this 365 day devotional. John condenses Biblical truth into concise daily readings to rekindle the fire of hope and the affirmation of God's power and love for us; how we need daily reminders! The world we live in is barely recognizable from the one of my childhood, but this book reminds me to daily claim my Restoration Year through scripture, commentary, prayer and meditation.
December 29, 2018
I received a complimentary copy.
The book is perfect for any step in life as well as both male and females. It is filled with faith based material for the reader to enjoy each day of the year. Opening to the page and spending as much time as you need with each passage and shorter paragraph can give you a spiritual sense of warming. I feel like this would be a great gift for you or a faith based friend that could be used to give a great new outlook and a fresh start to the new year.
The book is perfect for any step in life as well as both male and females. It is filled with faith based material for the reader to enjoy each day of the year. Opening to the page and spending as much time as you need with each passage and shorter paragraph can give you a spiritual sense of warming. I feel like this would be a great gift for you or a faith based friend that could be used to give a great new outlook and a fresh start to the new year.
September 12, 2020
At first, I didn't really like this devotional, but decided to give it a chance. It might not appeal to the older generation, of which I am a member. It might not appeal to someone who is well grounded in the Bible, unless you are looking for something a little different. However, I discovered it would be perfect for one of my adult granddaughters. I bought one for her and she loves it! That is saying a lot, since she is not really a reader.
December 31, 2020
I bought this devo on a whim. I loved the title and hoped for good things, and it ended up being an excellent companion to my Bible reading. It's the first year-long devotional I've ever read and I was worried about my follow through (I lack discipline), but I really liked the writing style so it was easy to stick to it. It was poetic and heartfelt, so it felt like I was meeting with a kind friend who just wanted to speak truth and hope and encouragement into my life.
December 7, 2018
This devotional is a game-changer. It is so full of hope! What a delight to start my day from the perspective of what God will do to restore life as opposed to what do I need to do to make life better. It is a life-giving devotional!
Also, the artwork is truly beautiful and would make a lovely gift.
Also, the artwork is truly beautiful and would make a lovely gift.
December 29, 2018
Restoration Year by John Eldredge is a 365 day devotional that is the perfect addition to your day. A gorgeous hardback book that is the perfect size to add to you bag making it easy to take with you. Each day you will start with a Bible versus, a short story/description and a question that is sure to get you thinking. Restoration Year would make a lovely addition to your daily Bible study.
Read
September 7, 2021My hubby and I are big fans of Eldredge's book and use them as part of our daily devotionals. This book is filled with insightful and encouraging devotionals. Most are about 1 to 1 1/2 pages long, and include a scripture, Eldredge's thoughts, and some include suggestions on how to apply the day's teaching into your own life.
January 1, 2022
A great devotional for any age
This was a more modern devotional which I really liked. The short little devotional essays covered a lot of topics and was beautifully written, making me think about God’s word in different ways than I had seen it before. It’s super relatable and a very easy read every day.
This was a more modern devotional which I really liked. The short little devotional essays covered a lot of topics and was beautifully written, making me think about God’s word in different ways than I had seen it before. It’s super relatable and a very easy read every day.
December 16, 2018
I give this book a 4 out of 5, not because I like the whole book but because there is a lot of potential even with a few days worth of devotional to help change self and thinking about the spiritual self and the physical self. READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE: http://bit.ly/2rGQ9mR
December 31, 2021
One Year of instructions for my life daily
I chose this rating because the book changed my iife for my good. My life is better and easier to live because of seeing, feeling and praying daily through this book.
I chose this rating because the book changed my iife for my good. My life is better and easier to live because of seeing, feeling and praying daily through this book.
December 31, 2024
Restoration for your heart, mind and soul.
This is such a great devotional. It’s really does restore you & speak life and truth into parts of yourself that may have hardened in this weary world. I am starting it again this year!
This is such a great devotional. It’s really does restore you & speak life and truth into parts of yourself that may have hardened in this weary world. I am starting it again this year!
March 27, 2025
devotional
Great daily read. It brought. Me out of a dark place in my life. The devotions have a way of making you think about how God’s word applies to your life specifically.
Great daily read. It brought. Me out of a dark place in my life. The devotions have a way of making you think about how God’s word applies to your life specifically.
January 1, 2026
The restoration
Lately I have been reading many of John’s book. I have returned from the very first book I read from the author, Wild at Heart. His writings just get better. I even gave his books on audio. Deep and profound thoughts in his readings.
Lately I have been reading many of John’s book. I have returned from the very first book I read from the author, Wild at Heart. His writings just get better. I even gave his books on audio. Deep and profound thoughts in his readings.
January 1, 2020
A Year of recovery!
I started this book just because John Eldredge wrote it, but having finished it I can now say God has used his words to recover my heart again.
Thank you.
I started this book just because John Eldredge wrote it, but having finished it I can now say God has used his words to recover my heart again.
Thank you.
January 1, 2020
Great devotional
This is a great devotional for starting the day. It put me in a good frame of mind and made me ready to face the day. I highly recommend this book.
This is a great devotional for starting the day. It put me in a good frame of mind and made me ready to face the day. I highly recommend this book.
January 1, 2020
Great devotional.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews