What is a Devotional?

The term “devotional” might be familiar to you, but if you aren't sure what it means, we are here to help. Let's get more specific and define a daily devotional, like Today. A daily devotional provides a reading for every day of the year. They have a format, purpose, and provide a time for daily prayer and meditation.

Devotionals Provide a Format

Most devotionals contain a simple, but powerful format. For example, the Today devotional begins with a scripture reference. The scripture reference is the root of the devotion and is a starting point for the reflection. The reflection is the body of the devotional is a reflection written by an author to aid the reader in focusing on God's word and teaching. A daily devotional ends with a prayer that relates to the scripture and the reflection.

Devotionals Provide a Purpose

The general purpose of a devotional is to encourage spiritual growth. Not all spiritual journeys are the same, so different devotionals serve different purposes. This includes individual devotions, group devotions, or family devotions. Some people prefer to journal their spiritual devotions to document their spiritual growth.   

Devotionals Provide a Time for Daily Prayer and Meditation

Most devotionals involve some sort of seasonal or calendar rhythm. Daily devotions are an example of this. They are helpful because time for meditation and prayer is built into the format. Some people prefer shorter devotions and others find in-depth reflections more suitable. You need to find a rhythm that will keep you steady on your spiritual journey. Considering daily devotions? We have a few suggestions that are available online.  

Devotionals help you grow closer to God through study and reflection, but it is important to find the right one. I suggest trying out the Today devotional. Otherwise, there are hundreds of devotionals out there to explore—in print and online. Whichever devotional you choose, may God bless your time of study and reflection.