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The Heart in Pilgrimage: A Treasury of Classic Devotionals on the Christian Life
A Beautiful Collection of 50 Classic Devotionals
Christians throughout the ages have written devotionals as a way to bend their souls toward God and teach about him, communicating rich truths and encouraging readers to grow in grace and godliness. In this collection of 50 devotionals and creeds by figures such as Augustine, John Calvin, and Nathaniel Hawthorne, literary expert Leland Ryken introduces readers to insightful selections of their classic writings. Each entry contains a devotional passage from a historical figure, analysis by Ryken, and a concluding Bible passage to help readers understand and appreciate the literary beauty and spiritual truths they contain. Literary-inclined readers and first-time devotional readers alike will relish this one-of-a-kind anthology carefully compiled to help them encounter God in fresh ways.
Written by Leland Ryken: A literary expert with over 50 years of teaching experience Perfect for Daily Devotions: With a ribbon marker to keep your place in the book, each entry includes a historical devotional passage, analysis by Ryken, and a concluding Bible passage Features 50 Devotionals and Creeds from Church History: Features writers such as John Calvin, Jonathan Edwards, George MacDonald, Thomas � Kempis, Jane Austen, and J. I. Packer
Christians throughout the ages have written devotionals as a way to bend their souls toward God and teach about him, communicating rich truths and encouraging readers to grow in grace and godliness. In this collection of 50 devotionals and creeds by figures such as Augustine, John Calvin, and Nathaniel Hawthorne, literary expert Leland Ryken introduces readers to insightful selections of their classic writings. Each entry contains a devotional passage from a historical figure, analysis by Ryken, and a concluding Bible passage to help readers understand and appreciate the literary beauty and spiritual truths they contain. Literary-inclined readers and first-time devotional readers alike will relish this one-of-a-kind anthology carefully compiled to help them encounter God in fresh ways.
Written by Leland Ryken: A literary expert with over 50 years of teaching experience Perfect for Daily Devotions: With a ribbon marker to keep your place in the book, each entry includes a historical devotional passage, analysis by Ryken, and a concluding Bible passage Features 50 Devotionals and Creeds from Church History: Features writers such as John Calvin, Jonathan Edwards, George MacDonald, Thomas � Kempis, Jane Austen, and J. I. Packer
192 pages, Hardcover
Published November 8, 2022
10 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Leland Ryken
128 books139 followersDr. Ryken has served on the faculty of Wheaton College since 1968. He has published over thirty books and more than one hundred articles and essays, devoting much of his scholarship to Bible translations and the study of the Bible as literature. He served as Literary Chairman for the English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible and in 2003 received the distinguished Gutenberg Award for his contributions to education, writing, and the understanding of the Bible.
He is the father of Philip Graham Ryken
He is the father of Philip Graham Ryken
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 1, 2025
A lovely variety of devotional readings (none of which were fluffy). I usually don't like books with excerpts from other books (Why not just read the whole thing?), but these were well chosen and the size was just perfect for daily ruminations.
The only snag in my enjoyment was that I downloaded it directly from the publisher (rather than from Amazon) and many of the kindle features did not work. It's the type of book that would probably work better as a hard copy anyway.
The only snag in my enjoyment was that I downloaded it directly from the publisher (rather than from Amazon) and many of the kindle features did not work. It's the type of book that would probably work better as a hard copy anyway.
May 15, 2023
I really like Ryken's format in this book, as in many of his others: pick a good excerpt, tell some about the author and the selection, and then let you think about it. Good stuff.
August 9, 2023
A gift from my wife, this was an excellent read. Ryken compiled a really fresh and beneficial selection of devotionals from all over church history for this treasury. One surprising feature that I benefited from was how many reflections on death and dying were included. The format of the book is 50 1-2 page devotionals, followed by about a page of Ryken's own reflection and literary analysis. Would recommend.
December 13, 2022
2022 has been a year, for me, of reading the classics. Austen, Charlotte Bronte, Shelley, Stoker...the list goes on. And this book is an excellent devotional foray into the classics--more specifically, classics on the Christian life.
I loved the selection of authors (yaaaaay Jonathan Edwards!), and appreciated Ryken's selections--as well as commentary on each. I may be enjoying many a classic more than I ever did in English-lit class (I learned quickly in college that I wasn't meant to be an English major)--but I still walk away from some books going, "Okay, and in English that means what, exactly?" LOL! Ryken is here to help with that, and does a great job. The devos are both intellectual and spiritually refreshing.
My wannabe-English-major self is very happy ... both as a reader and as a Christ-follower. I loved the introduction to many an author I knew by name, and look forward to perusing more of their works in future. In the meantime, what better way to start than by reading their own words in pursuit of Christ?
I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I loved the selection of authors (yaaaaay Jonathan Edwards!), and appreciated Ryken's selections--as well as commentary on each. I may be enjoying many a classic more than I ever did in English-lit class (I learned quickly in college that I wasn't meant to be an English major)--but I still walk away from some books going, "Okay, and in English that means what, exactly?" LOL! Ryken is here to help with that, and does a great job. The devos are both intellectual and spiritually refreshing.
My wannabe-English-major self is very happy ... both as a reader and as a Christ-follower. I loved the introduction to many an author I knew by name, and look forward to perusing more of their works in future. In the meantime, what better way to start than by reading their own words in pursuit of Christ?
I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 2, 2024
Ryken draws from a range of authors and types of devotional texts. This book is both instructive and encouraging. The actual book is beautifully bound and well-organized. Great book!
February 6, 2023
This beautiful devotional book features Leland Ryken's selections of fifty historic devotional readings, along with his explanations of them. The readings are usually less than two pages long, and Ryken's explanations are often equal in length. He shares historical context for each writing, and provides literary and spiritual analysis. His goal for this book is for people to read the devotional, read his writing, and then read the devotional again to more fully appreciate its literary quality and depth of meaning. This book will appeal to people who enjoy historical writings and literary reflection. The selections cover a broad range of time periods and spiritual topics, and the authors represented here include both household names and obscure writers.
As Ryken explains in the introduction, many devotionals become repetitive and stale, so he tried to keep his selections engaging, avoiding constant repetition and including some surprising, unexpected choices, like a faith testimony from William Shakespeare's last will and testament. Ryken prioritized using writings that have aged out of copyright, so these are mostly very old writings, but they come from a wide range of times, places, and locations. My one significant critique is that this book almost exclusively draws from the spiritual heritage of European and American writers, without including writings from the rest of the global Christian world.
The Heart in Pilgrimage will appeal to people who enjoy powerful historical writings, and who prefer devotional books that don't require a particular schedule. People can dip in and out of this book at any time, and because the table of contents includes titles for each reading, someone can read the book straight through or choose writings that seem topically appropriate for them at the moment. This book is also very aesthetically pleasing, and would make a nice gift. The book has a burgundy cover with gold trim, a ribbon bookmark, and high-quality cream paper, and the typesetting has good margins. Overall, this is a unique, beautiful, and well-crafted collection of devotional readings.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
As Ryken explains in the introduction, many devotionals become repetitive and stale, so he tried to keep his selections engaging, avoiding constant repetition and including some surprising, unexpected choices, like a faith testimony from William Shakespeare's last will and testament. Ryken prioritized using writings that have aged out of copyright, so these are mostly very old writings, but they come from a wide range of times, places, and locations. My one significant critique is that this book almost exclusively draws from the spiritual heritage of European and American writers, without including writings from the rest of the global Christian world.
The Heart in Pilgrimage will appeal to people who enjoy powerful historical writings, and who prefer devotional books that don't require a particular schedule. People can dip in and out of this book at any time, and because the table of contents includes titles for each reading, someone can read the book straight through or choose writings that seem topically appropriate for them at the moment. This book is also very aesthetically pleasing, and would make a nice gift. The book has a burgundy cover with gold trim, a ribbon bookmark, and high-quality cream paper, and the typesetting has good margins. Overall, this is a unique, beautiful, and well-crafted collection of devotional readings.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2023
What writings have proven to help Christians grow in grace and godliness? In The Heart in Pilgrimage, Leland Ryken presents a treasury of classic devotionals on the Christian life.
At just under 200 pages, this book is a beautiful anthology of the best Christian prose. Ryken introduces his book by defining what makes a work a classic, namely because of its excellence and being the best. Literary qualities and memorability play a part. Famous authors and their most associated works are also considered. I cannot argue with Ryken’s selection, as it spans 17 centuries and includes 46 authors.
Explanations and Analyses
This book would be worth the price just with the devotionals. But Ryken includes his own explanations and analyses – his explications – giving context and keys to understand and appreciate the beauty of the writings. Ryken is a teacher, and one that will turn your heart to trust the truths in each devotional.
I was happy to find some of my old favorites in this collection. Revisiting their work in the context of others helped me read them with fresh eyes. Jeremiah Burroughs writes on The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, and Ryken explains the inner spiritual quality of contentment as being more than a cheerful temperament that arises from external comforts. Morever, it is an act of worship – attainable by exercising faith in the goodness of God.
Classic Christian Writing
I was also pleased to read new writings. Although a fan of Whitefield, I had never read The Care of the Soul Urged as the One Thing Needful. Ryken points out Whitefield’s urgency, and his method of speaking in a life-or-death manner. His message is easy to grasp, complete in coverage, and winsome in simplicity. Finally, Ryken underscores Whitefield’s directness – and I am compelled to speak and write with these qualities in mind.
This book is a beautiful devotional, with insights into what makes classic Christian writing. It will draw your gaze upward, inspire you to work for the Lord, all the while resting your heart in his.
I received a media copy of The Heart in Pilgrimage and this is my honest review.
At just under 200 pages, this book is a beautiful anthology of the best Christian prose. Ryken introduces his book by defining what makes a work a classic, namely because of its excellence and being the best. Literary qualities and memorability play a part. Famous authors and their most associated works are also considered. I cannot argue with Ryken’s selection, as it spans 17 centuries and includes 46 authors.
Explanations and Analyses
This book would be worth the price just with the devotionals. But Ryken includes his own explanations and analyses – his explications – giving context and keys to understand and appreciate the beauty of the writings. Ryken is a teacher, and one that will turn your heart to trust the truths in each devotional.
I was happy to find some of my old favorites in this collection. Revisiting their work in the context of others helped me read them with fresh eyes. Jeremiah Burroughs writes on The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, and Ryken explains the inner spiritual quality of contentment as being more than a cheerful temperament that arises from external comforts. Morever, it is an act of worship – attainable by exercising faith in the goodness of God.
Classic Christian Writing
I was also pleased to read new writings. Although a fan of Whitefield, I had never read The Care of the Soul Urged as the One Thing Needful. Ryken points out Whitefield’s urgency, and his method of speaking in a life-or-death manner. His message is easy to grasp, complete in coverage, and winsome in simplicity. Finally, Ryken underscores Whitefield’s directness – and I am compelled to speak and write with these qualities in mind.
This book is a beautiful devotional, with insights into what makes classic Christian writing. It will draw your gaze upward, inspire you to work for the Lord, all the while resting your heart in his.
I received a media copy of The Heart in Pilgrimage and this is my honest review.
December 9, 2022
An unique volume of classic, literary, devotional style writings by some really interesting folks.
According to the editor of this volume, the purpose of a devotional book is to be “affective in its operation, appealing to our emotions and heart more than our minds…not to inform or educate but to bend the soul towards God and persuade a reader to embrace godliness in daily life.” These 50 selections achieve his premise and more.
Some of the well known participants in this devotional include: Florence Nightingale, George Washington Carver, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Dostoevsky, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Blaise Pascal, Shakespeare and a bunch of others you’d expect to find in a collection that spans many centuries. Each of the 50 is approximately 2.5-3 pages long and includes a brief interpretation about the work and a few words about the writer. It’s clear that Leland Ryker is an historian as well as an editor and a great deal of time was spent researching for this project’s components.
A deep red, almost burgundy cloth cover with embossed gold decoration adds a rich look and feel to this highly giftable package. Paper quality is moderate to heavy with a very comfortable type size and style. Scripture is quoted from Crossway’s usual ESV version of the Bible, unless otherwise noted and then they will be marked either KJV or RSV. A tan ribbon marker is a nice addition that will be very useful as this book can be read randomly. Feel free to peruse the TOC for an interesting topic, author, scripture reference or be traditional and read from 1-50; just read.
All things considered, a beautifully crafted volume, perfect for gifting📚
According to the editor of this volume, the purpose of a devotional book is to be “affective in its operation, appealing to our emotions and heart more than our minds…not to inform or educate but to bend the soul towards God and persuade a reader to embrace godliness in daily life.” These 50 selections achieve his premise and more.
Some of the well known participants in this devotional include: Florence Nightingale, George Washington Carver, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Dostoevsky, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Blaise Pascal, Shakespeare and a bunch of others you’d expect to find in a collection that spans many centuries. Each of the 50 is approximately 2.5-3 pages long and includes a brief interpretation about the work and a few words about the writer. It’s clear that Leland Ryker is an historian as well as an editor and a great deal of time was spent researching for this project’s components.
A deep red, almost burgundy cloth cover with embossed gold decoration adds a rich look and feel to this highly giftable package. Paper quality is moderate to heavy with a very comfortable type size and style. Scripture is quoted from Crossway’s usual ESV version of the Bible, unless otherwise noted and then they will be marked either KJV or RSV. A tan ribbon marker is a nice addition that will be very useful as this book can be read randomly. Feel free to peruse the TOC for an interesting topic, author, scripture reference or be traditional and read from 1-50; just read.
All things considered, a beautifully crafted volume, perfect for gifting📚
December 29, 2022
He was your maker in time past; hereafter He will be your judge. Make Him your hero now. Take time to think of Him; praise Him in your hearts.
The above is just a small sample of the classics. Those that studied the word before us, with great suffering, experience, and the holy spirit, have much to teach the culture. Each chapter has an introduction and the teaching that inspires all generations to draw near to God while we can.
Lessons on what keeps us from holiness, prayer, gratitude, moderation, responsibilities in families and communities.
Such greats as Tozer, Ryle, Calvin, Luther to name a few. Highly recommend. A classic in itself.
A special thank you to Crossway Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
The above is just a small sample of the classics. Those that studied the word before us, with great suffering, experience, and the holy spirit, have much to teach the culture. Each chapter has an introduction and the teaching that inspires all generations to draw near to God while we can.
Lessons on what keeps us from holiness, prayer, gratitude, moderation, responsibilities in families and communities.
Such greats as Tozer, Ryle, Calvin, Luther to name a few. Highly recommend. A classic in itself.
A special thank you to Crossway Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
February 15, 2025
This collection of Classic Devotions is a great way to become familiar with the authors from our Christian heritage. From Augustine to Andrew Murry; from Florence Nightingale to Samuel Johnson, John Wesley, Charles Surgeon, Jane Austen and A.W. Tozer, author Leland Ryken takes the unique approach of crafting a unique summary of the literally styles and techniques applied by each writer.
I was familiar with many of those listed in the book, but was introduced to a few knew ones. One in particular I will be reading as a devotional in the future is "Holiness" by J.C. Ryle as introduced in chapter 40 of this collection.
I was familiar with many of those listed in the book, but was introduced to a few knew ones. One in particular I will be reading as a devotional in the future is "Holiness" by J.C. Ryle as introduced in chapter 40 of this collection.
January 21, 2024
I enjoyed about half of the devotionals, the rest did not strike me as extraordinary, I'm sure this is a defect in my own heart and not a defect in the brilliance of the book. Really enjoyed seeing the insights of some historical folks whose names I know, but whose faith I did not know. The devotional by Dunne was my favorite.
May 20, 2023
The wide variety of sources in this book was wonderful. It helped me connect my faith and daily obedience to “a great cloud of witnesses” across the centuries. Very encouraging!
July 20, 2023
Rich, meaty, gentle and full of knowledge. Leland Ryken is a Christ-following teacher who graciously shares his insights and makes these devotionals shine even brighter.
June 30, 2025
Ryken gave a taste of and a good introduction to many different Christian writers and kinds of Christian writing
March 12, 2023
A beautiful collection of passages from Christian authors throughout history and from all denominations
October 7, 2025
I appreciate the diversity and breadth of the selections, and there are some works I would now like to read in full. The length was great for my morning devotions, and the book itself was beautiful. I appreciate this book as a companion piece to his book The Soul in Paraphrase as well.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews