Paul David Tripp has become one of my favorite devotional writers. His style is thoughtful, concise and always filled with important scriptural principles. The typical format of his books includes a scripture or quote and a daily reflection. He closes each day with scripture references to dig into on your own, sometimes a prayer and/or a family oriented activity or discussion.

This particular devotional includes fifty two devotions from Paul David Tripp which can be read every Sunday for a year, every day for 52 days or, if you like, just read them as you feel like reading them. The primary focus of this book is the importance of the Sunday exercise of gathering together as a church family. He shares 52 thoughts on why this is important and how you can engage with other believers to worship and grow together as the Bride of Christ. We are not meant to go through our lives as Lone Ranger Christians. We need the church and the imperfect people God has brought together in each fellowship to pray for one another, encourage one another, teach each other and so much more.

PDT has a gentle approach but he does not mince words. There are plenty of times that I have felt convicted by what he is sharing. I am also always encouraged and strengthened in my faith as I work through the truths that he shares. In a world filled with conflict and shallow thinking this is a breath of fresh air and a true joy to read. As the people of God we should be glad for one another and excited to come together each week. We should look forward to spending the first day of each week in worship together through the preaching of the Word, singing, prayer, praise, and fellowship. It is what we were made for.

As someone who has attended church all my life this was still an insightful look at why church is important. For those who struggle to know why this is true this might be just the book you are looking for. Maybe you know someone that would enjoy this one for the new year or you could be the one that needs to hear this message to strengthen your resolve to be more present in church in the coming year.

For more information on Paul David Tripp and his writing you can check out his website or read some articles from him on Crossway.com I requested this book to review as part of the crossway review program. I was only asked to give an honest review.

You might also be interested in the annual sale Crossway has in January (1st t0 15th) on all ebooks and audiobooks. It is a good time to pick up some great stuff at very affordable prices to spur you on to a deeper walk with Christ, love and good works for a new year.