In All Things Thee to See

In All Things Thee to See is a delightful devotional guide to selected poems of George Herbert, with selections and reflections by Stephen Witmer. By patiently guiding readers through Herbert’s rich imagery, wordplay, and theology, Witmer helps modern Christians rediscover the devotional power of Herbert’s poetry -- beautiful words with deep truth.

Witmer is an excellent guide, able both to explain the beauty of the poems and to apply them wisely. He says that we should read Herbert for pleasure, welcome him as our pastor, and experience him as a poet. It truly is a transformative book. In each of the forty poems, Witmer helps you savor the poem (to understand it) and then be shepherded by it (to apply it).

Savor and Shepherd

I was inspired by the savoring sections, which allowed me to see Herbert’s genius and the way he weaves various themes in his poems through wordplay and double meanings. I was also encouraged by the shepherding sections, where Witmer lets the truths of the poems ring and resonate, asking questions that prompt you to examine your own heart.

This book will benefit those in ministry, those looking for something fresh in their devotional life, and anyone who appreciates beautiful words and the craft of writing. As I write my own prayer poems to share after my sermons, I found this book to be a blessing. In a world that needs eyes and hearts opened to God, Herbert’s poems help readers freshly encounter God and find new joy in Christ.

I received a media copy of In All Things Thee to See (Amazon) and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.