Truth for Life - Volume 1: 365 Daily Devotions

Truth for Life #1

by Alistair Begg

A year of gospel-saturated daily devotions from renowned Bible teacher Alistair Begg.Start with the gospel each and every day with this one-year devotional by renowned Bible teacher Alistair Begg.We all need to be reminded of the truth that anchors our life and excites and equips us to live for Christ. Reflecting on a short passage each day, Alistair spans the Scriptures to show us the greatness and grace of God, and to thrill our hearts to live as His children. His clear, faithful exposition and thoughtful application mean that this resource will both engage your mind and stir your heart.Each day includes prompts to apply what you’ve read, a related Bible text to enjoy, and a plan for reading through the whole of the Scriptures in a year. The hardback cover and ribbon marker make this a wonderful gift.

Genres: Devotional, Christian, Nonfiction, Faith, Christian Living, Christian Non Fiction, Christianity

387 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2021

About the author

Alistair Begg has been in pastoral ministry since 1975. Following graduation from The London School of Theology, he served eight years in Scotland at both Charlotte Chapel in Edinburgh and Hamilton Baptist Church.

In 1983, he became the senior pastor at Parkside Church near Cleveland, Ohio. He has written several books and is heard daily and weekly on the radio program, Truth For Life. The teaching on Truth For Life stems from the week by week Bible teaching at Parkside Church.

Reviews

[S. Stutzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A first rate Christian devotional that is worthy of your attention.

I’m not into what I call “cotton candy” Christianity, where the biblical stories are simply moralism or a gateway to reinforcing self. The Bible is God’s Word spoken to mankind for the glory of Himself and a gift to people for salvation and life. Yet Christian devotionals are notorious bad, at least by my own opinion. I’ve not used any devotional for years because there was a lack of richness or a proper picture of the goodness and greatness of God. But this devotional is different.

I like how Begg begins in the biblical text and helps us to understand it rightly, then applies it well to our everyday lives. The devotionals are short but powerful, and this is a commendable work to any Christian wanting spiritual growth and a constant source of encouragement. While there are times while reading I wished Begg had gone further, he is faithful and the devotional lifts our hearts to God while keeping us rooted in the world and work we are supposed to be doing here.

I plan on keeping this treasure and reading it in years to come, which I think says volumes about its value.

[Liberty {LittyLibby} · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the teachings of Alistair Begg

[Allison Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its always been hard for me to find a good devotional to read every day but this one was outstanding. Alistair Begg interprets Scripture in relation to daily life which is both practical and beneficial as we live life day in and day out.

[Rebecca Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read throughout 2022.
Well-written, very scriptural, very challenging in places! Would recommend!

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can we grow in knowing the grace and truth of God? In Truth For Life, Alistair Begg delivers a year of daily devotions to saturate you in the Gospel.

Pastoral Wisdom, Personal Warmth

With each devotional only being one page long, this book is a blessing to those who are busy but want to spend time with God. Begg writes with pastoral wisdom and personal warmth. He is one I would trust to daily point you to Christ.

What I most appreciated was the range of Scripture that Begg brings to you. The Old Testament and New Testament are both touched upon, and it is clear that Begg knows his Bible. A yearly Bible reading plan is included, to help give you the full counsel of God.

Full of Grace and Truth

At the end of each devotional, Begg often gives a point or two of suggested application. He cuts to the heart and expects our actions to follow. He clearly gives us God’s Word, and commends us to Christ. I found his words to be compelling, and I was eager to read more.

This book is a modern classic. It contains timeless truths, wrapped with kind and loving words from a wise and seasoned saint. Instantly encouraging and always hopeful – allow the grace and truth of Jesus Christ to set you free.

I received a media copy of Truth For Life and this is my honest review.

[Bill Pence · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first of two Truth for Life daily devotional books from respected pastor and author Alistair Begg. I used the first volume as a part of my daily devotional readings this year, and will use the second volume as a part of my daily devotional readings next year.
Each of the daily readings begins with a scripture passage. In the reading for that day, the author aims to explain the passage, to encourage the reader from them, and to reflect on how they inspire and equip us to enjoy living for Christ in every area of our lives. At the bottom of each reading, you will see three icons. These are a prompt to say to yourself: Now that I have read and considered these verses… how is God calling me to think differently? how is God reordering my heart’s affections—what I love? what is God calling me to do as I go about my day today? Also included is “Bible Through the Year” reading plan.
I enjoyed reading Truth for Life each day. Here are 30 of my favorite quotes from the book:
• Even in the difficulties of life and the depths of pain, the fatherly providence of God permits all things for our good and His glory. He has proved that He knows what He is doing. For that, we can still praise Him in the darkness.
• Don’t assume your best days lie behind you. God has a purpose for you and me. He completes what He begins (Philippians 1:6). Be refreshed by the reminder of God’s presence and press on in the work He has called you to.
• Biblical Christianity, with a Christ who will come again in glory, an inerrant Bible, and a triune Godhead, is an offense to a pluralistic world.
• As Christians, our great daily opportunity is to walk out into another day and be different—to be what we are: citizens of heaven, people who are not from round here.
• Following Jesus does not insulate us from life’s storms, but we can take comfort from knowing that God promises to hold us fast through them. He can calm our hearts, and He may even quiet the very storms themselves.
• God does not prevent storms from coming. But He is a God who is both present through them and sovereign over them.
• The Lord’s work is anything on which we might lay our hands or focus our minds that is pleasing to God, as we work for him rather than in order to impress others (Colossians 3:23). This can be within the body of Christ or in service to the world around us.
• God appoints every believer to particular responsibilities within Christian ministry and service, and those responsibilities include working for Him in whatever circumstances and opportunities come our way today; for they do not come by chance but by divine arrangement.
• There is nothing you can offer to God that isn’t already in His possession. So give willingly and generously—money, time, talent—as God directs you, in response to His grace.
• God always empowers what He commands.
• Today, you may find yourself feeling horribly downtrodden, damaged by what others have done to you or injured by past mistakes. Perhaps you’ve been tempted to believe that you’re broken and useless. But there is glorious news for you: the Servant picks up bruised reeds, and He does so with care.
• You are now seated with Him in the heavens. Your greatest success today will not lift you higher than He has already lifted you; nor can your greatest struggle or failure pull you down from there.
• There’s no better place to serve God than the place in which He sets you.
• God is our Maker and our Redeemer, and He is therefore entitled to and worthy of our praise. No one and nothing deserves your praise more than Him.
• God has given you the great privilege of approaching Him in prayer and addressing Him as Father. He stands ready to listen and to help. Be sure to treat prayer as a holy habit and never as an optional extra.
• An unforgiving spirit is perhaps the greatest killer of genuine spiritual life.
• One day you will experience the fullness of your union with Christ and His people for eternity; but that can, and should, begin now. You have the privilege of fostering that unity today in the way you use your time and in the way you think of, pray for, and speak to your brothers and sisters in your church.
• Every day, you are shaping your reputation. And as a Christian, every day you are shaping Christ’s reputation too. What do our lives say about Christ as we walk around as His disciples?
• Your sin has been paid for and your sin has been removed. Your performance neither adds to nor detracts from your status before our holy God.
• You have been ransomed by God so that you might praise Him today and enjoy Him for all eternity. Whatever your day holds, be sure to walk through it with that as your greatest passion and highest purpose.
• Do not presume upon His provision or grumble about the route He leads you on, but instead be filled with gratitude for all He has provided materially and spiritually.
• In God’s kingdom, the way up is actually down. Honor is found in giving it, not in receiving it. Greatness is displayed in serving, not in being served.
• God is far more concerned with your Christlikeness than your comfort. Often, more spiritual progress is made through disappointment and failure than through success and laughter.
• Here is the source of your hope when you get up in the morning. Come rain or shine, come delight or disappointment, God will definitely accomplish His purposes in your life through the day.
• Resolve today to use your words for the good of those with whom you interact, honoring Christ in your heart and letting His sweet aroma fill your speech.
• When we face a time of testing, which God allows, we should remember that His purpose is not our failure but our benefit. The devil longs for us to fail, but God longs for us to succeed. He is for us, and He is working all things, even trials and temptations, for our good.
• Here is the truth that we each need to rehearse: “God gave to me exactly what I require, I am composed exactly as He planned, and all that He has, and has not, given me is for my good and His glory.”
• Gracious gratitude enables us to face all things with the awareness that God is profoundly involved in our lives and circumstances, for He has made us special objects of His love.
• Today, do not live as though this is all there is. Lean forwards, for your best days are still to come. You are not there yet—but most assuredly you one day will be.
• Scripture finds its focus and fulfillment in Christ. The real test of how deeply God’s word is dwelling within us is not our ability to articulate a story line but to see Jesus in all the Scriptures.

[Peter Yock · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a solid and helpful daily devotional that I enjoyed in 2022. There's a verse or two for each day, followed by 3/4-1 page of reading. Each day the reflections on the short verse/s were high quality and helpful. I appreciated the suggestions for an extra passage to read too - and I can see how having the 'Bible in a year' passages down the bottom of each page would be helpful if you were doing that simultaneously.

I would've preferred if there was some kind of structure to the book - each day, the verses used seemed totally random. Very occasionally you'd be reading chronologically (e.g., for 4 days in a row you'd read a verse or two from Ruth), but other than that it seemed totally random. I don't think I'll use this one again as I prefer more structure. Still, it's good stuff.

[Kristen Gebbia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked how this was set up. A scripture; meditation; a few verses for further reading; then “Bible in a year” passages.

I remember there being a handful of days I didn’t agree with the doctrine, but I don’t remember what specific days that was.

[Neils Barringer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best daily devotion I Have done! I love it so much I ordered Part 2 for 2023!

[Danette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Teach us to number our days,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

I didn’t get it read in a year but it was excellent.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent biblical teaching. Daily help.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read it with my husband for the past year. It was fine as far as an eclectic daily devotional goes, but I generally prefer topical or exegetical rather than random and unrelated.

[Brian Kettering · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best 365 day devotional out there. Amazing resource. Great for family devotions and personal reading.

[Elizabeth Betta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every devotion was a one page reminder of who we are called to be. With encouragement and scripture reading this book is a gem. I recomend to all!

[Mallory · Rating 5 out of 5]

This devotional has everything! Sure to be a classic!

This well-thought out and gospel-centered devotional is full of wisdom and truth with every component of a devotional that you could ask for.

Each day is one page with Scripture at the top followed by devotions that are focused on God.

There are 3 icons at the bottom prompting 3 questions:
*How is God calling me to think differently?
*How is God reordering my hearts affections - what I love?
*What is God calling me to do as I go about my day today?
Beside these icons are Scripture references to dig deeper into God's word with that day's devotion. Many are about a chapter in length which is a great way to expand beyond the single page devotion.

At the very bottom of each page is a "Bible Through The Year" section that you can follow along with to also read the Bible in its entirety during the year while working through this devotional book.

At first glance, this may seem like a quick and easy read each day, which it could absolutely be if you have limited time. However, you could also use this book and spend a good 45 minutes or longer in God's Word if you read and consider all the different prompts and passages on each page. I appreciate this versatility to be able to adapt it to different schedules.

In my personal opinion, this devotional is going to be a classic for years to come along the lines of Spurgeon's Morning and Evening. It's definitely a book that can and will be read year after year.

And bonus - it includes a ribbon bookmark to keep track of where you are! This is a little detail, but one that I actually really appreciate.

The print is a bit on the small side, but the content is so great that I'm glad they crammed in everything that the could on each page.

I just saw that volume 2 will be releasing later this year! So excited for that!

From May 31st: “So the call to us is very simple: to “continue in the faith… not shifting from… the gospel.” We never need to move on from the simple gospel of Christ crucified, risen, and reigning; in face, we dare not. And yet how easy it is for us to grow cold to these truths; for familiarity to breed if not contempt, then complacency.”

[Peter Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I used Alistair Begg’s Truth for Life: 365 Daily Devotions, Volume 1 as one of my devotional readings over the past year. I also have Volume 2. I largely found it a helpful work.

Each devotion takes up one page. The date is at the top, and underneath the date is a title for the devotion, and under that, there is a text from the Bible on which the devotion is based. At the end of the devotion there are three symbols: a head, a heart, and a hand up in the stop position. This is followed by a text for further reading.

The symbols are there to remind the reader to ask – in order, “how is God calling me to thank differently, how is God reordering my heart’s affections – what I love, [and] what is God calling me to do as I go about my day today?” (8).

I said I found this a largely helpful work. There were a few times that I differed with Begg’s interpretation – but that is neither here nor there, since I have only found one writer that I haven’t read anything that I disagreed with. My issues are mostly with the format of the devotions.

First, under the date, there is a title for the devotion. I think the title is unnecessary and takes up room that could be better used. (More on that in a moment.) If one thinks the title is necessary or worthwhile – at least decrease the font.

Second, increase the font of the Scripture. The Scripture is barely readable the font is so small. It is in the smallest font of everything on the page.

Thirdly, the three symbols are explained in the introduction. It would seem best to flesh that out a bit in the introduction and drop the symbols from each page which I found confusing and takes up room that could be better used.

Finally – and this is what the decrease of the title font size and the elimination of the symbolize makes room for – end each devotion with a prayer. The reader can use it or be guided by it, rather than just facing the symbols.

The devotions are biblical and written for all ages. I would recommend these devotionals. I just think they could be better with the changes noted above.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gift edition of Alistair Begg's one-year devotional, "Truth For Life - Volume 1," speaks to the heart of my daily Christian journey. It's a beautifully crafted book that I wholeheartedly rate as a 5+ star treasure.

The imitation-leather debossed cover not only adds a touch of elegance but also conveys the message of the enduring truth it holds. It's the kind of book that makes for a perfect gift for a fellow Christian brother or sister. The inclusion of a ribbon marker and sleeve is a practical touch that I appreciate as it keeps the book well-protected and makes it easy to pick up where I left off each day.

What sets this edition apart is the content within. Alistair Begg's reflections are a source of spiritual nourishment, and the prompts for real-life application bring the Scriptures to life. The inclusion of relevant Scripture passages and a yearly Bible-reading plan is a thoughtful touch that enriches my consistent, daily devotion experience.

Alistair Begg's ability to span the Scriptures and reveal the greatness and grace of God is truly exceptional. Each day, as I reflect on a short passage, I'm reminded of the truth that anchors my life as a Christian. His clear and faithful exposition, coupled with thoughtful application, engages my mind and stirs my heart.

This gift edition is not just a book; it's a source of daily inspiration, encouragement, and spiritual growth. Whether you're a seasoned believer or new to the faith, "Truth For Life - Volume 1" is a valuable addition to your daily routine. I very highly recommend it as a cherished gift for yourself or a loved one, and it's sure to be a constant companion on your journey of faith.

I received a copy of Truth for Live - Volume 1 I received a copy of this book from The Good Book Company. I am not obligated to write a positive review nor am I paid to do so. These words are my honest assessment of this fantastic, life-changing book.

[Benjamin Razey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my devotional for last year, and it was absolutely fantastic. I particularly loved how the devotional would both start with a short passage from Scripture, enabling readers to immerse themselves in God’s Word right at the start, whilst also providing a lengthier passage to reflect on at the end of the devotional, encouraging readers to finish in God’s Word as well.

The devotionals themselves were profoundly insightful, offering rich biblical gems of wisdom and incredibly helpful analogies to understand the key idea each day.

Finally, I loved the three questions provided for reflection on the final passage each day - namely, how will what I’ve read and learnt today impact how I think, how I feel, and how I act. These three questions were incredibly beneficial for me last year, and will shape my personal Bible reading this year as well, even though I have finished this devotional.

I would strongly recommend Begg’s Truth for Life to every Christian. It is helpful both for those who are just starting out, and also for those who have been reading God’s Word for many years.

[Liam · Rating 3 out of 5]

DNFed. I started this one because it is one of the highest rated devotionals that I’ve seen on Goodreads. I’ve always found Alastair Begg to be pretty good, - but never great or earth shattering in his messages that I’ve heard. This seemed to be the case in this devotional as well.

While I do think there is a lot that is good about this devotional, in each daily reading I couldn’t help but feel a little disappointed - like something crucial was missing in his examination of the text. His discussions on each text seemed extremely generalized and even a tad superficial. I found that most of the devotions dealt with either worldview discussions, or had a specific thing in mind for the reader to start doing - however they never really touched on the heart or the desire for God. Gospel content was a bit lacking as well it seemed to me - and was only spoken of in a very general way.

I don’t know; maybe I’m being too critical. But it seemed like there was something missing from this one.

[Jonathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good as most devotionals go. Failed a couple of litmus tests for me to give it 5 stars.

1. The continuity of theme test. I wasn't quite sure about having a sudden thematic mini-series on Ruth and Jonah. I appreciate that many devotionals don't have themes at all. I enjoyed the look through when we did them and felt unjustifiably disappointed when returning to a scattergun approach.

2. The wife test. I do morning devotionals with my wife and she struggled at times with the turns of phrase and syntax when we read aloud. While it was grammatically correct, it didn't flow too easily. She greatly appreciated the teaching, but felt some points were over-laboured (didn't need re-emphasis). Also, she wasn't too happy when I got distracted by the 'guess the old hymn from the lyrics' game. As a result she wasn't keen on getting Volume 2. (We may yet in a couple of years though, as I think we enjoyed more than not).

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even more important than the devotional is the plan for reading the Bible in one year. The devotionals are wise and truthful meditations on Scripture, but what is amazing is the connection across the daily readings from the Old and New Testament. Instead of following canonical order, Begg pairs Old and New Testament books so that it becomes very plain how they speak into each other. For example, he starts with Genesis and Romans together, and then ends with Luke and the minor prophets together. It’s powerful to notice the connections and to better understand how Jesus truly is the fulfillment of the law, the prophets, and the psalms (as he himself says in Luke 24:44). I gave this book to my adult children and my parents, so we were all working through it together over the past year. All of us found it enriching and transformative.

[WyoGal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent devotional for sharpening a believer’s focus on what’s important

This devotional provides good insight for new and seasoned believers into Christian faith and what is a priority for those who follow Christ. The Bible passages that accompany each day are helpful and add depth to the reading. The suggested Bible passages to read through the Bible in a year require a greater amount of time than other yearly plans, especially if read along with the devotional.

There are a few formatting issues with repeated headers in the ebook version, but otherwise the writing is excellent.

[Lanita Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent daily devotional! Alistair Begg offers great insight into the Scriptures and God’s truths. Each day includes a Scripture passage that the devotion focuses on, as well as an additional passage for further study and application. In some ways, the book is very academic and can be used to learn, as well as study God’s Word. In other ways, it’s a resource that is encouraging, challenging, uplifting, all the while revealing God and His character, as well as His plans for our lives in the redemption process. A great book to pair with your Bible as you spend time with God each day!

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title says it all!

This book has been a blessing to me every morning for the past year. Each day reminds me that not only the world has fallen and it can’t get up…but that I also have fallen and need to continually remind myself of my need for a Saviour. Alistair has a anointed ability in leaving me with a thought to take with me into my day as well as an awareness of the world around me and the mission of making disciples given to us all.
I look forward to Volume 2 starting today!

[Rachel Mayes Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daily devotional books can be so dicey. They easily get either shallow or repetitive, which unfortunately makes them easy to abandon.

Happily, Truth for Life is none of these things. Each entry is both fresh and faithfully expositional, accessible yet rich. I used it to accompany my daily personal reading this year, and I can see it being equally beneficial in a family setting as well. Definitely the best modern daily devotional I've encountered!

[Jill Stirling · Rating 5 out of 5]

What beautiful journey. This is a wonderful aid to prayer and devotion. It has everything you need to learn to walk with the Lord. The verse and thought for the day is always challenging and encouraging with sound teaching. The read through the bible section is very helpful. I recommend this to anyone who seeks to spend time with the Lord every day.

[Ryan Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. A very good daily devotional from Alistair Begg. With insightful and well crafted thoughts as well as a recommended Scripture passage for each day (which should be followed in my opinion), the words of this devotional gave me much food for thought and helped me stay focused on Christ throughout the year. An excellent resource.

[Ashley Ethridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best devotionals I have ever gone through. Definitely helps deepen your understanding of the Word and was so timely in pointing me towards God and His promises daily in such a turbulent year of 2024 for me. I was gifted it last year as well as his Volume 2 devotional for this upcoming year and can’t recommend it highly enough.

[Ronald Spitzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This the best daily devotions book or booklet I have ever used. I have also turned some of these miniature Bible Studies into to Prayer Meeting lessons. Keep your Bible handy as you will want/need to do the Bible reading too. Highly recommended!

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful yearlong daily devotional. He digs into many themes throughout the year and gives good suggestions of Scripture to read. I enjoy Alistair Begg's teaching, and this book was spiritually encouraging throughout the year. I am looking forward to reading volume 2.