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Pilgrim: 25 Ways God’s Character Leads Us Onward
A Publishers Weekly Bestseller
Guideposts of Grace for Your Faith Journey
As a follower of Christ, you live each day as a pilgrim, traveling the path Jesus sets before you. Though the road may be rocky, God provides reminders along the way to show you that He writes your story, paves your path, and walks with you always.
From bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons comes this uplifting meditation on the character of God to accompany you on your pilgrim journey. Featuring stunning new artwork, these 25 devotions will lead you to
Pilgrim reminds us of profound truths by showing us how God’s grace and provision shape each Christian’s unique journey of conforming to the image of Christ. On the path of spiritual growth and maturity, knowing God’s character makes all the difference. When your travels leave you worn and weary, God will not abandon you—you can lay your burdens in His hands, find hope in His presence, and follow His path as He leads you onward.
Guideposts of Grace for Your Faith Journey
As a follower of Christ, you live each day as a pilgrim, traveling the path Jesus sets before you. Though the road may be rocky, God provides reminders along the way to show you that He writes your story, paves your path, and walks with you always.
From bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons comes this uplifting meditation on the character of God to accompany you on your pilgrim journey. Featuring stunning new artwork, these 25 devotions will lead you to
Pilgrim reminds us of profound truths by showing us how God’s grace and provision shape each Christian’s unique journey of conforming to the image of Christ. On the path of spiritual growth and maturity, knowing God’s character makes all the difference. When your travels leave you worn and weary, God will not abandon you—you can lay your burdens in His hands, find hope in His presence, and follow His path as He leads you onward.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published September 12, 2023
175 people are currently reading
890 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Chou Simons
55 books1,033 followersRuth Chou Simons is a Wall Street Journal bestselling and award-winning author of several books and Bible studies, including GraceLaced, Beholding and Becoming, When Strivings Cease, and Now and Not Yet. She is an artist, podcaster, speaker, and the founder, CEO, and Chief Creative Officer of GraceLaced, an art and lifestyle brand. Simons uses each of these platforms to spiritually sow the Word of God into people’s hearts, making deep truths beautifully accessible with her signature art and relatable communication style.
Simons has been featured on Good Morning America, Fox, Christianity Today, and Hallmark Home and Family. Ruth and her husband, Troy, live in Western Colorado and are grateful parents to six boys—their greatest adventure.
Connect with Ruth on social media at @ruthchousimons.
Simons has been featured on Good Morning America, Fox, Christianity Today, and Hallmark Home and Family. Ruth and her husband, Troy, live in Western Colorado and are grateful parents to six boys—their greatest adventure.
Connect with Ruth on social media at @ruthchousimons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
September 13, 2023
Pilgrim is a devotional style book that encourages us in our journey of following Christ by focusing on the attributes of God, which Ruth refers to as guideposts.
I rarely purchase or read devotional style books because they can often lack depth. However, this one is theologically rich… it was simple, but solid.
Also, this book is absolutely stunning… it is filled with Psalms, Hymns, and artwork. It makes it even more of a treat as you soak in all the beauty along the way of this “pilgrimage”.
This book would be a really sweet one to gift to someone (yourself included 🤍). It is a daily dose of encouragement that will set your heart on the God we follow on the Christian journey.
I rarely purchase or read devotional style books because they can often lack depth. However, this one is theologically rich… it was simple, but solid.
Also, this book is absolutely stunning… it is filled with Psalms, Hymns, and artwork. It makes it even more of a treat as you soak in all the beauty along the way of this “pilgrimage”.
This book would be a really sweet one to gift to someone (yourself included 🤍). It is a daily dose of encouragement that will set your heart on the God we follow on the Christian journey.
August 29, 2023
In Pilgrim, Ruth Chou Simons soulfully comes along side the reader with what she calls "guideposts" to fuel our faith journey. Encouraging readers with beautiful illustrations paired with hymns, scripture, and truth nuggets highlighting God's character and promises. This is a book I will return to again and again to remind me that God's love for me through Jesus is what sustains me, not my feelings or circumstances. Beautiful enough to be placed on your coffee table, yet accessible enough to be a daily reminder for us sojourners to stay rooted in truth as we navigate life's twists and turns. The eye catching illustrations make it easy to share the truth embedded in Ruth's text with others. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to stay grounded in faith during life's ups and downs.
November 1, 2023
Out of all the Ruth Chou Simons books I have, this one is by far the most beautiful to me. The artwork and hand lettering is breathtaking! I’m so tempted to rip out a few pages to frame.. but I won’t 🤣
This book came at the perfect time for me right before having a newborn. I needed a devotional that would exposit truth for me in the newborn haze and brain fog that comes with it, which makes studying Scripture alone harder. I always love Ruth’s beautiful imagery and gracelaced (😉) analogies in her writing. She fed me spiritually and pointed me to Jesus and eternal life with Him in each devo. Love her!
This book came at the perfect time for me right before having a newborn. I needed a devotional that would exposit truth for me in the newborn haze and brain fog that comes with it, which makes studying Scripture alone harder. I always love Ruth’s beautiful imagery and gracelaced (😉) analogies in her writing. She fed me spiritually and pointed me to Jesus and eternal life with Him in each devo. Love her!
August 23, 2023
Once again Ruth speaks truth into the hearts of all of us who feel weary as Pilgrims. The artwork beautifully enhances the concepts Ruth is sharing. A must read. It’s broken down into bite-sized pieces that are easy to read each day.
August 30, 2025
This is one of the most beautiful books I have ever read! Packed with devotionals, Bible verses, hymns, and biblical quotes and truths, I couldn't get enough. As soon as I finished, I knew I had to gift it to my mother...she would adore how the classic hymns bring the biblical truths to life.
Each painting felt so vibrant, I could imagine them blown up and decorating the walls of my home. The devotionals spoke to the depth of God's character, redefining the truths that He can be trusted, that He is my foundation, and that my greatest desire will always be to walk in His will.
I am so grateful for this book and the beauty it has brought into my life through its pages. I can't wait to read more by Ruth Chou Simmons.
I received a complimentary copy, and this review reflects my honest opinion.
Each painting felt so vibrant, I could imagine them blown up and decorating the walls of my home. The devotionals spoke to the depth of God's character, redefining the truths that He can be trusted, that He is my foundation, and that my greatest desire will always be to walk in His will.
I am so grateful for this book and the beauty it has brought into my life through its pages. I can't wait to read more by Ruth Chou Simmons.
I received a complimentary copy, and this review reflects my honest opinion.
September 4, 2023
This devotional has helped me feel seen, understood and encouraged during my current season of life. Each section is short and intentional. Even when I felt at capacity and, honestly, overwhelmed, I still managed to read this devo, because it was so doable! Each read left me feeling encouraged and grateful. Putting tools in my belt to help me through the day and reminding me Gods presence isn’t circumstantial. He’s always near.
September 1, 2023
Ruth has done it again! Another beautiful, inspiring, and soul-touching devotional that speaks to the hearts of those seeking direction in life. “Pilgrim, 25 Ways God’s Character Leads Us Onward” is full of stunning artwork, beautiful hymns of old, and a deep understanding of God’s Word. Ruth encourages us to remember that God is with us, even in our darkest seasons. He is with us and leading us with His guideposts every step of the way. In her book, Ruth reminds us that life is not about the destination but the journey. And how the journey defines us and refines us for the seasons to come. God does not abandon us during trials, but “He is our deliverer and delights to show us His faithfulness in the most impossible circumstances.”. Pilgrim is an essential tool and inspiring resource for all who need encouragement. To not give up but to press on in this race that God has set before us.
November 26, 2025
I’ve read through this book three times now—every November—and it remains one of my all-time favorites. I’m a big RCS fan, but this one stands out as especially deep, challenging, encouraging, and genuinely beautiful. I want to rip out many of the pages ;). As I walked through the daily devotions again this year, new truths seemed to rise off the page, reminding me afresh of the stunning goodness, grace, holiness, and glory of God.
June 10, 2024
If I were rating this book based on the artwork, it would be a 5. Well, really, it would be like a 10/5....honestly, every page is just so beautiful with watercolours of flowers and landscapes. It's enchanting.
But I primarily rate books on Goodreads based on the writing, which I thought was... underwhelming. It's not that it was poorly written (except for maybe a little heavy on the passive voice). I just thought it lacked freshness and sparkle. It felt like a book full of really good reminders, but not much to make me say "Huh...never thought of it that way before." Which, I suppose may just mean I went to the book hoping for the wrong sort of thing. Reminders are good, too.
Oh, also, just a personal pet peeve, but I dislike when there are offset bubbles of text/sidebar type things plopped in the middle of a paragraph. Let my reading flow, people. Thank you.
But I primarily rate books on Goodreads based on the writing, which I thought was... underwhelming. It's not that it was poorly written (except for maybe a little heavy on the passive voice). I just thought it lacked freshness and sparkle. It felt like a book full of really good reminders, but not much to make me say "Huh...never thought of it that way before." Which, I suppose may just mean I went to the book hoping for the wrong sort of thing. Reminders are good, too.
Oh, also, just a personal pet peeve, but I dislike when there are offset bubbles of text/sidebar type things plopped in the middle of a paragraph. Let my reading flow, people. Thank you.
October 1, 2023
Coming out of a more spiritually-dry season, the daily devotionals in "Pilgrim" were life-giving. You'll encounter beautiful art, powerful Scripture, rich hymn lyrics, and Ruth Chou Simons' honest and encouraging words.
"How easy it is to doubt the strength of the flow when we forget who is at the source."
"The path is more difficult than most anticipate, but God's faithfulness to deliver and sustain is more present than most realize."
"How easy it is to doubt the strength of the flow when we forget who is at the source."
"The path is more difficult than most anticipate, but God's faithfulness to deliver and sustain is more present than most realize."
May 7, 2024
This was a a very encouraging book that I read slowly every morning. Ruth Choi Simons did a great job combining life experience, scripture and hymns all together that helped me develop a deeper understanding of God’s character! 🗻🗻🗻🗻
March 27, 2024
Just wonderful. Beautiful reminders of the truths of the gospel and the benefits that are ours because we’re in Christ, side by side with her stunning artwork. Highly recommend!
July 9, 2024
A beautiful devotional. The illustrations along with the words of well known hymns was an encouragement to me!
February 4, 2025
A 25 day devotional featuring lovely watercolor paintings. The theology is solid. And I love how each devotional is based on a hymn.
September 2, 2023
Tucked in between each beautiful illustration are the words to encourage a weary heart journeying through life. It’s hard to articulate how well Ruth balances the beauty of her art with the eloquence of her words. All of which point to life with God as both a journey and a final destination. You will be encouraged, probably brought to tears and reminded, most importantly, that He carries us and guides us though our life and that He can be trusted to take us where we need to go.
September 15, 2023
While recently becoming a member of her Launch Party team, I’m reading a digital copy. So far, this new upcoming book, Pilgrim, by author and artist Ruth Choi Simons, is an inspiring read.
She makes references to scriptures from The Holy Bible and illustrates the principles calling them “Guideposts” along life’s journey. The guideposts are helpful references to The Holy Bible scriptures and hymns. I need to finish reading it before I can write a full book review. Once I’ve read it it fully then I’ll write my review. For now, I’ll credit this book as a gentle and encouraging resource of truth from scripture that has taught me just how important it is to preach God’s scripture truths to myself. Ruth once again helps Christian women refocus our minds in God and walking joyfully with ahis son Jesus.
Our culture has drifted away from church and since the global pandemic everyone needs encouraging words. Ruth writes down chapters about the key character traits of God and His faithfulness to lead people through their journeys throughout their lives at ever season. Ruth is an expert in painting graces the pages of Pilgrim with her calligraphy and her art work.
The quality artwork makes it absolutely a joyful reading experience. It also will make a beautiful gift.
She makes references to scriptures from The Holy Bible and illustrates the principles calling them “Guideposts” along life’s journey. The guideposts are helpful references to The Holy Bible scriptures and hymns. I need to finish reading it before I can write a full book review. Once I’ve read it it fully then I’ll write my review. For now, I’ll credit this book as a gentle and encouraging resource of truth from scripture that has taught me just how important it is to preach God’s scripture truths to myself. Ruth once again helps Christian women refocus our minds in God and walking joyfully with ahis son Jesus.
Our culture has drifted away from church and since the global pandemic everyone needs encouraging words. Ruth writes down chapters about the key character traits of God and His faithfulness to lead people through their journeys throughout their lives at ever season. Ruth is an expert in painting graces the pages of Pilgrim with her calligraphy and her art work.
The quality artwork makes it absolutely a joyful reading experience. It also will make a beautiful gift.
October 29, 2023
“How do we get so caught up in believing this journey is all about us? The pressure’s off, friend; all the glory belongs to Christ.”
“Truth be told, we so often turn to friends, social media, or our digital devices for the answers we seek. We can come to think of the cross of Christ as that good news in our moment of crisis long ago and forget that Jesus is meant to be the good news for all our days and for every path or crossroads we face thereafter.”
Very encouraging and beautifully illustrated. I really appreciate how this authors books include such short, to the point, and extremely encouraging (and artistically beautiful) chapters. So much easier to read as a mother short on time. I think I enjoyed Beholding and Becoming and Gracelaced even more, but this one also I would highly recommend!
“Truth be told, we so often turn to friends, social media, or our digital devices for the answers we seek. We can come to think of the cross of Christ as that good news in our moment of crisis long ago and forget that Jesus is meant to be the good news for all our days and for every path or crossroads we face thereafter.”
Very encouraging and beautifully illustrated. I really appreciate how this authors books include such short, to the point, and extremely encouraging (and artistically beautiful) chapters. So much easier to read as a mother short on time. I think I enjoyed Beholding and Becoming and Gracelaced even more, but this one also I would highly recommend!
April 10, 2025
“When Christ is our cornerstone, even life’s worst storms cannot collapse us.”
There’s nothing quite like a Roth Chou Simmons book.
I especially loved the guideposts at the end of each chapter. And the artwork is stunning.
This review is for both the audiobook and physical book.
There’s nothing quite like a Roth Chou Simmons book.
I especially loved the guideposts at the end of each chapter. And the artwork is stunning.
This review is for both the audiobook and physical book.
September 28, 2024
Beautiful illustrations and a daily hymn to listen to.
August 30, 2023
Pilgrim is a 25 day devotional that discusses the character of God. These devotions remind us of God’s character and encourages us to consider His faithfulness every day. Once again, Ruth uses spectacular artwork interwoven with inspirational quotes, scripture verses and hymns to guide us. She clarifies the theology of God’s attributes, summarizing them as “Guideposts,” for us to hold on to in our walk. For example: “God’s grace holds and guides us every step of the way to His presence.” (Chapter 2, page 28) These short but rich in content chapters are perfect for a morning meditation and/or a comforting nighttime ritual. I have gifted many of Ruth’s books to friends and family over the years; Pilgrim will be no exception as it is first on my list for this Christmas.
July 6, 2024
“The hero of your story is the faithfulness of God.”
This might be my favorite Simons book yet! It is overflowing with hearty truth and deep encouragement.
This might be my favorite Simons book yet! It is overflowing with hearty truth and deep encouragement.
September 2, 2023
If you have ever felt unsure or alone or confused as you walk in faith, Pilgrim is for you. Ruth Chou Simons pairs her beautiful paintings and 25 favorite hymns in devotional readings that illustrate the wonder of God's character and how he is with us every step of the way, guiding us in our journey, even when it may not feel like it. Reading the book is so calming and encouraging, and I get lost in the best way in the vivid colors and pictures that convey the vastness and wonder of God and the beauty of all creation. I highly recommend checking this out for yourself.
September 7, 2024
Review!!
“Pilgrim: 25 Ways God’s Character Leads Us Onward” by Ruth Chou Simons
I read Ruth’s book “Beholding and Becoming” over the summer and was in awe of everything the book contained. Filled with Scripture, hymns, original artwork, quotes, and encouragement for everyday-mindful-godly-living, I knew I needed to read another one of her books and this seemed the most similar. This definitely was!!!
This is a devotional-style book but I just read this through as a regular book, but either way would be great.
I was deeply encouraged by this book in so many ways. Ruth offered so much encouragement for everyday life, especially the mundane and not-so-pretty moments, but also the exciting and special times. I was reminded of the steadfastness and consistency of God’s character in all of this, from moments of desperation to the Celestial City. The providence and sustenance were big themes in this book, and I was refreshed by the reality that although a lot of prayers have not been answered in the way I thought they would, that all things in this life are ultimately for the glory of God and the good of those who love Him.
When on the day the Great I Am,
The Faithful and the True
The Lamb who was for sinners slain
Is making all things new.
Behold our God shall live with us
And be our Steadfast Light,
And we shall e’er His people be,
All glory be to Christ!
“Pilgrim: 25 Ways God’s Character Leads Us Onward” by Ruth Chou Simons
I read Ruth’s book “Beholding and Becoming” over the summer and was in awe of everything the book contained. Filled with Scripture, hymns, original artwork, quotes, and encouragement for everyday-mindful-godly-living, I knew I needed to read another one of her books and this seemed the most similar. This definitely was!!!
This is a devotional-style book but I just read this through as a regular book, but either way would be great.
I was deeply encouraged by this book in so many ways. Ruth offered so much encouragement for everyday life, especially the mundane and not-so-pretty moments, but also the exciting and special times. I was reminded of the steadfastness and consistency of God’s character in all of this, from moments of desperation to the Celestial City. The providence and sustenance were big themes in this book, and I was refreshed by the reality that although a lot of prayers have not been answered in the way I thought they would, that all things in this life are ultimately for the glory of God and the good of those who love Him.
When on the day the Great I Am,
The Faithful and the True
The Lamb who was for sinners slain
Is making all things new.
Behold our God shall live with us
And be our Steadfast Light,
And we shall e’er His people be,
All glory be to Christ!
June 19, 2024
Wow! This may be Ruth Chou Simon’s best book yet. The practical Truth shared in such a straightforward and astounding way was absolutely incredible — and life-changing if you let it!
I read through this with my sisters — a great idea to bond + gain extra perspective!
Each chapter had one guidepost to hold fast as you walk this Christian (Pilgrim) journey. You end the book with 25 Truths to hold fast!
The integration of the hymns of the church and artwork was incredibly meaningful.
I 100% recommend this book to all the ladies out there! Grow your faith — calm your heart — pick up this book!
I read through this with my sisters — a great idea to bond + gain extra perspective!
Each chapter had one guidepost to hold fast as you walk this Christian (Pilgrim) journey. You end the book with 25 Truths to hold fast!
The integration of the hymns of the church and artwork was incredibly meaningful.
I 100% recommend this book to all the ladies out there! Grow your faith — calm your heart — pick up this book!
September 3, 2023
Pilgrim is a beautiful book! It contains 25 chapters, with each one focusing on a character trait of God and referring to lyrics from a traditional hymn. Ruth writes about the mercy of God, the omniscience and omnipresence of God, the provision and goodness of God and the faithfulness of God. There is a whole lot more! Ruth is not only a wonderful author, but she is a very talented artist, as well. The book is full of her gorgeous work. My heart received so much encouragement and joy from this book and I am sure you will too.
You will want a copy for yourself and a couple more to give away as gifts!
You will want a copy for yourself and a couple more to give away as gifts!
September 7, 2023
This book is like a balm for your soul. Ruth uses her beautiful illustrations and treasured hymns to make the Scripture come alive. It is water for the weary and tired soul, encouragement for the broken-hearted and brings a smile to the one in love with her Savior. This is the kind of book to gift to someone struggling with life to be reminded that even as pilgrims on this journey, we do not walk alone. It is gorgeous and would make a nice centerpiece on your coffee table. I was privileged to be on the launch team for this timeless classic. Order yours today. You won’t be sorry.
September 16, 2023
Outstanding Book
This is such a treasure of a read!
Ruth Chou Simons is one of my new favorite authors. I really love the way she writes, and the heartfelt messages she details - especially that of grace.
To me, Ruth is the "Brene Brown" of grace. (where Brene Brown focuses on shame, Ruth has a similar focus on grace - a much better focus if you ask me!)
This book is packed full of 25 outstanding devotionals that lead you closer to God.
I highly recommend checking out this book, and very much enjoyed it myself.
4.8/5
This is such a treasure of a read!
Ruth Chou Simons is one of my new favorite authors. I really love the way she writes, and the heartfelt messages she details - especially that of grace.
To me, Ruth is the "Brene Brown" of grace. (where Brene Brown focuses on shame, Ruth has a similar focus on grace - a much better focus if you ask me!)
This book is packed full of 25 outstanding devotionals that lead you closer to God.
I highly recommend checking out this book, and very much enjoyed it myself.
4.8/5
September 30, 2024
I feel like I am treating myself whenever I read a chapter of one of Ruth Chou Simons' books. The watercolor illustrations on every page are stunning, and my beauty-loving soul always comes away feeling refreshed. I particularly liked the way each chapter of this book was organized around commonly known hymns. The language was personable and yet profound. It was the perfect book to read before bed. Highly recommend!
September 27, 2025
This is a wonderfully written and beautifully illustrated book that is illustrated by the Author. My friend Terri gave it to me and I love it. So encouraging. I highly reccommend it to any Christian.
I also appreciate that she lists all of the hymns in the book at the back. I knew about 1/2 of them.
I also appreciate that she lists all of the hymns in the book at the back. I knew about 1/2 of them.
October 13, 2025
The artwork is absolutely stunning, that it's worth buying the physical copy and not an ebook or audio. I love all the quotes/scriptures and hymns throughout the book. Some of these chapters were balms. I gave 4 stars because I just found the writing repetitive between chapters and so much about Colorado.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews