Book Review: Devotions from Psalms and Proverbs by Charles Spurgeon

Devotions from Psalms and Proverbs by Charles Spurgeon is a series of devotionals connected to various Psalms and Proverbs. I know that’s obvious given the title, but I need to set up where I’m going.

Most of my “reading” these days is via audiobook. This was no different. With other books that are non-fiction or even fiction, there’s a plot to hold to. At the very least, there are lessons to follow and things to learn. I’m not saying this isn’t true of this book, what I’m trying to convey first is I failed miserably at reading this book. I have several excuses. Luckily, I own it and intend to read it again once I get a few other books read.

However, I will say that I don’t think this is the kind of book you just read. While I certainly struggled with focus while this was on my phone, there are other things that added to this struggle. The one I want to mention is that a lot of what is in this book is so thought provoking and contemplative, that I’d find myself praying or thinking along a different track. By the time I realized I wasn’t paying attention anymore, I was already well into the next devotional.

Naturally, I’d skip back and try to listen again. Spurgeon would say something else, and my mind would fly off on a different track. I’m not actually sure how “bad” that is. A part of me feels that this book is meant to be mulled over and considered. I think one is supposed to listen and try to apply what is being said.

This image was taken from the Christian Hall of Fame of Canton Baptist Temple website in an attempt to represent Spurgeon. This caption is a credit to where the image came from but does not necessarily endorse the site or its teaching as I haven’t studied their site much.

This means the problem is that I was trying to read this like any other book rather than let it be the reflective tool it is. This book takes a single passage and expands on it and basks in it. I loved that, but I’ve since realized that if an author is contemplating or reflecting, the reader will want to do the same.

I want to listen to this again and pause when I want to think about something. I want to listen again and focus on one portion at a time. I want to take that time to think on and apply what’s being said. I just have to do that.

This book is packed with several tidbits that sent my mind off. I just want to take the time to give it due attention. Still if you’re looking for a book you can sink your teeth into, this fits the bill.

Thanks for reading,

Matt