Refreshment for the Soul: A Year of Daily Readings from the 'Heavenly Doctor'

A pastor of forty years who has throughout his ministry found the Puritans to be a great source of spiritual encouragement, David MacKinnon presents here 366 extracts from the works of the Puritan pastor Richard Sibbes, which may be used each day of the year by readers as an aid to devotion. Each extract has been carefully selected, and a suitable accompanying Scripture text provided at the start of each daily reading. Occasional antiquated words in the original have been updated, and overly long sentences have been shortened, but all with a view to retain Sibbes’ flow and meaning for present-day readers. For those who have never encountered Sibbes before, this volume will serve as an excellent introduction. All will find in these daily readings spiritual refreshment for the soul, coming from one who in his day was known, appropriately, as the ‘heavenly doctor.’

Born in England in 1577, Richard Sibbes was expected to become a wheelwright like his father, but his passion for learning caused him to attend St. John’s College. Converted to Christianity around the age of 25, he earned a B.D. and preached in Cambridge and London. After being granted a Doctorate in Divinity, he became known as the “heavenly Doctor Sibbes.” The Works of Richard Sibbes is available today in seven volumes, with Sibbes’ gift of illuminating Scripture’s meaning still evident today. Other Richard Sibbes books include The Tender Heart, where he guides readers to embracing Christ-centered grace; The Bruised Reed, a book that demonstrates why he was known for his ability to comfort others; and Josiah’s Reformation, a book that reminds us how true reformation comes from the heart. Although Richard Sibbes wrote his books more than 400 years ago, they are still relevant today.