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Always in God's Hands: Day by Day in the Company of Jonathan Edwards
This year, get to know the true Jonathan Edwards―and see the hand of God in your own life like never before.
Jonathan Edwards is one of the most respected early American theologians. In Always in God’s Hands , Owen Strachan recovers the real Jonathan Edwards―the thinker, the compassionate father, the courageous reformer―as opposed to the caricature of him that is often presented. Edwards believed God was ever-present in each of our lives, caring and encouraging us in every moment. In a moving letter to his daughter, he reminds her of that comforting truth by describing her as “always in God’s hands.”
Through daily quotes from Edwards’s letters and sermons, this inspirational devotional reveals the soaring theology and comforting spirituality of one of history’s most faithful and gifted pastors. With each meditation, compiler Owen Strachan offers refreshing and relevant insights, encouraging you in your walk with God.
Jonathan Edwards is one of the most respected early American theologians. In Always in God’s Hands , Owen Strachan recovers the real Jonathan Edwards―the thinker, the compassionate father, the courageous reformer―as opposed to the caricature of him that is often presented. Edwards believed God was ever-present in each of our lives, caring and encouraging us in every moment. In a moving letter to his daughter, he reminds her of that comforting truth by describing her as “always in God’s hands.”
Through daily quotes from Edwards’s letters and sermons, this inspirational devotional reveals the soaring theology and comforting spirituality of one of history’s most faithful and gifted pastors. With each meditation, compiler Owen Strachan offers refreshing and relevant insights, encouraging you in your walk with God.
432 pages, Hardcover
Published November 20, 2018
31 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Owen Strachan
44 books139 followersDr. Owen Strachan is Provost and Research Professor of Theology at Grace Bible Theological Seminary (GBTS). Before coming to GBTS, he served as Associate Professor of Christian Theology and Director of the Residency PhD Program at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (MBTS). He holds a PhD from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, an MDiv from Southern Seminary, and an AB from Bowdoin College. Strachan has published fourteen books and writes regularly for the Christian Post, and Thoughtlife, his Patheos blog. Strachan hosts the
City of God
podcast. He is married and is the father of three children.
You can also connect with Strachan on Facebook.
You can also connect with Strachan on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
May 6, 2019
I was excited to see this book available for review -- I have read much about Jonathan Edwards, and he is one of the reformers that I wish I could have known.
This book is written in a devotional type of format, and I liked the fact that each reading was easily and quickly read, yet provoked much thought throughout the day. It was easily understood, made me think deeply, and gave me much to muse upon as I went about my daily duties. I read this all through in a couple weeks; I am looking forward to reading it through more slowly, day by day, in 2019.
That being said, I would obviously re-read this book, and I would recommend it to anyone seeking to learn more about Jonathan Edwards, or studying out the Scriptures in attainable portions.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review. I was not required to leave a favorable review; just an honest one.*
This book is written in a devotional type of format, and I liked the fact that each reading was easily and quickly read, yet provoked much thought throughout the day. It was easily understood, made me think deeply, and gave me much to muse upon as I went about my daily duties. I read this all through in a couple weeks; I am looking forward to reading it through more slowly, day by day, in 2019.
That being said, I would obviously re-read this book, and I would recommend it to anyone seeking to learn more about Jonathan Edwards, or studying out the Scriptures in attainable portions.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review. I was not required to leave a favorable review; just an honest one.*
November 22, 2018
I don’t usually get too excited about devotional books. They are typically too short and far too shallow. Such books gain a wide readership, which only adds fuel to my frustration. But when I learned about Owen Strachan’s new book, Always in God’s Hands: Day By Day in the Company of Jonathan Edwards, I eagerly secured a copy to review.
The book contains a short devotional for each day of the year. Readers are greeted by a short citation by America’s greatest intellectual and pastor, Jonathan Edwards. Strachan follows with an insightful devotion which is laced with Bible-centered wisdom and practical lessons that apply to the Christian life. Topics include the doctrine of the Trinity, justification, sanctification, battling temptation and worldliness, work ethic, faith, biblical authority, and many more. Each devotion concludes with a short Scripture that relates to the daily content.
Observant readers will notice several things about Strachan’s work. First, it is not short and it is not shallow. These are meaty, soul-stirring devotionals that ignite the affections and draw the attention of readers to the triune God. For instance, listen to how the author describes the promise of a Redeemer:
Second, it is a stellar introduction to the Christ-saturated worldview of Jonathan Edwards (approximately 30,000 words from the pen of Edwards are presented in this volume). Too many people unfairly caricature Edwards as a fire-breathing preacher, preoccupied with judgment and damnation. Edwards does indeed warn people to flee from the wrath to come. But this is not his only focus. The Puritan divine is fixated on the glory of God. He is consumed with the supremacy of Christ. His writing is saturated with gospel-centered joy.
Third, it provides practical help for believers at different maturity levels. This volume is certainly a great encouragement to seasoned believers. But it will also help strengthen the faith of believers who are just getting started. After completing Always in His Hands, I ordered an additional copy for my sixteen-year-old son. Inscribed in the opening pages are these words - from a father to his son:
Always in His Hands: Day By Day in the Company of Jonathan Edwards is a landmark book. It is a captivating introduction to America’s greatest thinker and invites readers to biblical spirituality that is truly unmatched. I highly recommend this work and trust that it will receive a wide reading in the evangelical world. Always in His Hands is among the best books of 2018!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
The book contains a short devotional for each day of the year. Readers are greeted by a short citation by America’s greatest intellectual and pastor, Jonathan Edwards. Strachan follows with an insightful devotion which is laced with Bible-centered wisdom and practical lessons that apply to the Christian life. Topics include the doctrine of the Trinity, justification, sanctification, battling temptation and worldliness, work ethic, faith, biblical authority, and many more. Each devotion concludes with a short Scripture that relates to the daily content.
Observant readers will notice several things about Strachan’s work. First, it is not short and it is not shallow. These are meaty, soul-stirring devotionals that ignite the affections and draw the attention of readers to the triune God. For instance, listen to how the author describes the promise of a Redeemer:
“It was foretold that Jesus would come as a holy warrior to face down his foe. Genesis 3:15 charts what the New Testament Gospels show us. Christ, Jonathan Edwards says, ‘went before us.’ He suffered ‘execution,’ dying to honor the justice of God, represented so vividly as a ‘sword,’ a great and terrible weapon. But the way of Christ is not a way of defeat. In dying, the Son of God crushed the serpent’s head. He rose from the dead. For believers, ‘there is no sword now,’ and eternal life awaits. The conquering hero will one day welcome us home, a liberated nation and a set-apart people.”
Second, it is a stellar introduction to the Christ-saturated worldview of Jonathan Edwards (approximately 30,000 words from the pen of Edwards are presented in this volume). Too many people unfairly caricature Edwards as a fire-breathing preacher, preoccupied with judgment and damnation. Edwards does indeed warn people to flee from the wrath to come. But this is not his only focus. The Puritan divine is fixated on the glory of God. He is consumed with the supremacy of Christ. His writing is saturated with gospel-centered joy.
Third, it provides practical help for believers at different maturity levels. This volume is certainly a great encouragement to seasoned believers. But it will also help strengthen the faith of believers who are just getting started. After completing Always in His Hands, I ordered an additional copy for my sixteen-year-old son. Inscribed in the opening pages are these words - from a father to his son:
"Jonathan Edwards life and writing have deeply shaped my views of God, the gospel, and the Christian life. No other writer outside of sacred Scripture has influenced me more. When you get to know this man, you get better acquainted with his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. And his Savior is our Savior!
I’m looking forward to reading these short devotions together. Each is inspired by Jonathan Edwards but the real joy will be treasuring the Lord Jesus and finding our satisfaction in him. As John Piper says, “God is most glorified when we are most satisfied in him.”
Always in His Hands: Day By Day in the Company of Jonathan Edwards is a landmark book. It is a captivating introduction to America’s greatest thinker and invites readers to biblical spirituality that is truly unmatched. I highly recommend this work and trust that it will receive a wide reading in the evangelical world. Always in His Hands is among the best books of 2018!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
December 31, 2019
Owen Strachan’s daily devotional taken from the writings of Jonathan Edwards was a different take on both this type of work and the source for much of its material. Each devotional began with some excerpt from Edwards’ writing, the author’s reflections, and a concluding scripture. Edwards himself, contrary to the caricature of being solely a fire-and-brimstone preacher famous for the sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” shows us his different, most prominent side: a focus on heaven, an engagement of both the emotions and the intellect as integral to faith in God, a pastor’s heart, and a life of devotion to God.
Some of the daily readings were quite profound while others were less so. Nevertheless, as I reviewed the entire book on this last day of the year, I found myself recalling numerous important truths. I see an overall organization that I didn’t recognize from daily, focused reading. And I was able to use excerpts from the book to encourage friends and family to pick up the Word of God itself in 2020.
Some of the daily readings were quite profound while others were less so. Nevertheless, as I reviewed the entire book on this last day of the year, I found myself recalling numerous important truths. I see an overall organization that I didn’t recognize from daily, focused reading. And I was able to use excerpts from the book to encourage friends and family to pick up the Word of God itself in 2020.
December 18, 2021
Simply amazing! Anything by Jonathan Edwards is amazing but to have writer Owen Strachan come along and bridge the gap between Edwards’ world and ours in daily readings was spectacular. I loved also how Strachan would take certain days in Edwards’ life and point out important dates and events that happened. I felt like not only was I getting to know Edwards’ writings but also the man as well. And since Edwards was so Christ saturated I got to know Christ better too! A win/win situation! Highly recommended
December 31, 2019
Meet Edwards
This is a great introduction to the writings of Edwards. As someone not well versed in the actual work of Edwards this was a good way to whet my appetite. I will definitely be digging deeper into this man’s body of work.
I do wish the readings of Edwards were longer, but while,trying to digest the language of the era it was a good way to get started, especially taking small chunks daily.
Thank you
This is a great introduction to the writings of Edwards. As someone not well versed in the actual work of Edwards this was a good way to whet my appetite. I will definitely be digging deeper into this man’s body of work.
I do wish the readings of Edwards were longer, but while,trying to digest the language of the era it was a good way to get started, especially taking small chunks daily.
Thank you
December 24, 2019
I'm giving up about 1/10 of the way through. I'm just not finding it very helpful.
December 7, 2020
Meet Jonathan Edwards but More Importantly Meet His God
I highly recommend Owen Strachan’s daily devotional, Always in God’s Hands: Day by Day in the Company of Jonathan Edwards. The daily format begins with a brief insight taken from a wide variety of Edwards’ voluminous writings, followed by devotional thoughts by Strachan, and ending with the related Scripture for that day.
How will you benefit from this daily devotional?
First, you will be introduced to the writings and heart of one of the greatest - if not the greatest - theologians America has ever produced.
Many have heard of Edwards and his famous (infamous to some) sermon, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God but few have actually read him in his own words. He is not easy to read but here you get bite-size introductions to his sermons, writings, and letters in the span of 30,000 words written by Edwards himself. You will see his passion for God and get know his thoughts of God.
Be forewarned that Edwards’ writings are in older English and at times require diligent attention but they are well worth the effort!
As an added bonus, throughout the year brief biographical snippets of his life are included (think in terms of “this day in history”). These historical cameos are a nice break throughout the year and give biographical context to the man and his life. Edwards was a husband, father, pastor, missionary, school president, and much more.
Second, you will be challenged by Strachan’s insightful devotional thoughts each day. Strachan is a gifted writer and his brief thoughts build a bridge between Edwards and your daily life. His passion for applying the gospel to all of life is evident throughout the year.
His insights get progressively richer; spiritual momentum builds on a daily basis as you read.
Third, you will be introduced on a daily basis to the greatness of the glory of God and how it relates to your daily life. This daily devotional is a great way to be introduced to the God of both Jonathan Edwards and Owen Strachan. You will be encouraged to know Him and enjoy Him as your God as well.
Don’t be surprised if you are moved to share quotes from Edwards and/or Strachan on your social media feeds to encourage others. You won’t regret using this devotional in the coming New Year to grow closer to the Lord and be reminded that you are always in His hands.
I highly recommend Owen Strachan’s daily devotional, Always in God’s Hands: Day by Day in the Company of Jonathan Edwards. The daily format begins with a brief insight taken from a wide variety of Edwards’ voluminous writings, followed by devotional thoughts by Strachan, and ending with the related Scripture for that day.
How will you benefit from this daily devotional?
First, you will be introduced to the writings and heart of one of the greatest - if not the greatest - theologians America has ever produced.
Many have heard of Edwards and his famous (infamous to some) sermon, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God but few have actually read him in his own words. He is not easy to read but here you get bite-size introductions to his sermons, writings, and letters in the span of 30,000 words written by Edwards himself. You will see his passion for God and get know his thoughts of God.
Be forewarned that Edwards’ writings are in older English and at times require diligent attention but they are well worth the effort!
As an added bonus, throughout the year brief biographical snippets of his life are included (think in terms of “this day in history”). These historical cameos are a nice break throughout the year and give biographical context to the man and his life. Edwards was a husband, father, pastor, missionary, school president, and much more.
Second, you will be challenged by Strachan’s insightful devotional thoughts each day. Strachan is a gifted writer and his brief thoughts build a bridge between Edwards and your daily life. His passion for applying the gospel to all of life is evident throughout the year.
His insights get progressively richer; spiritual momentum builds on a daily basis as you read.
Third, you will be introduced on a daily basis to the greatness of the glory of God and how it relates to your daily life. This daily devotional is a great way to be introduced to the God of both Jonathan Edwards and Owen Strachan. You will be encouraged to know Him and enjoy Him as your God as well.
Don’t be surprised if you are moved to share quotes from Edwards and/or Strachan on your social media feeds to encourage others. You won’t regret using this devotional in the coming New Year to grow closer to the Lord and be reminded that you are always in His hands.
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