18 Teen Devotionals to Give as Gifts This Christmas

Shared Devotions as a Guide

Last year, I had the pleasure of accompanying a group of ninth-grade girls at our winter retreat at the church. At the end of the weekend, they expressed a desire to get closer to Jesus, but also the difficulty of reading and understanding the Bible regularly. To support them, we decided to work through a devotional book together. This decision was not only a way to get to know the Bible better but also to create a community of faith.

We chose a devotional book with daily readings that included scripture references for further study, as well as commentary to help understand what was read. The application section was particularly helpful, providing practical tips on how to implement the lessons learned in everyday life. The girls didn’t read perfectly every day, but that was never the goal. Over the four months, they developed a deeper relationship with God and learned to perceive the Bible as a living word.

Such devotionals not only provide spiritual nourishment but also promote personal development and responsibility among young people. They learn to reflect on themselves and align their thoughts and feelings with their faith.

18 Devotionals for Teenagers

The selection of devotionals for teenagers is vast and can be overwhelming. Here are 18 carefully selected recommendations that make excellent Christmas gifts:

• Brave: A Teen Girl’s Guide to Beating Worry and Anxiety (Sissy Goff) – This book is more of a journal than a traditional devotional, but it is a valuable tool for teenage girls struggling with anxiety. It offers practical tips and biblical truths for living in freedom. Especially in today’s world, where many young people feel pressure, this book is a valuable companion.
• Know Your Bible Devotions for Teen Girls – This devotional helps girls better understand God’s word and live it out in daily life. It is particularly suitable for girls in grades 8 to 10. With easily understandable texts and relatable examples, reading the Bible becomes an experience.
• Live Original Devotional (Sadie Robertson) – Sadie Robertson, known from the show "Duck Dynasty," shares biblical truths in a youth-friendly and engaging way. Her authentic style makes her an inspiring voice for young girls. Her stories and experiences are often humorous yet profound.
• Live On Purpose: 100 Devotions for Letting Go of Fear and Following God (Sadie Robertson Huff) – In her second book, Sadie encourages girls to let go of their fears and find their identity in Christ. Especially suitable for older teenagers searching for their place in the world.
• Teen to Teen: 365 Days of Devotionals by Teen Girls for Teen Girls – These devotionals are written by teenagers for teenagers, making them particularly appealing and relevant. The stories are honest and authentic, making it easy for readers to relate.
• All in All Journaling Devotional: Loving God Wherever You Are (Sophie Hudson) – This book is ideal for older teenagers and young adults seeking a deeper spiritual experience. It combines profound thoughts with practical applications and promotes personal growth in faith.
• Women of the Word (Jen Wilkin) – Although not specifically written for teenagers, this book is perfect for older youth who want to learn how to study the Bible on a deeper level. It provides valuable methods for Bible study and enhances understanding of God’s word.
• Walk in Faith: 5 Minute devotionals for Teen Guys (Andy Dooley) – Short and concise devotionals that are ideal for teenage boys looking for a straightforward way to live out their faith. Perfect for starting the day or as a quick inspiration.
• Teen to Teen: 365 Days of Devotionals by Teen Guys for Teen Guys – The counterpart to the girls' version, also written by teenagers, which makes it particularly authentic. The devotionals are honest and direct, appealing to many boys.
• No More Excuses—Teen Devotional (Tony Evans) – Dr. Evans encourages young men to take responsibility for their faith and inspires them through biblical role models. A powerful book that challenges young men to actively live out their faith.
• Soul Fuel: A Daily Devotion (Bear Grylls) – Bear Grylls, known from "Man vs. Wild," shares adventurous stories that connect faith and courage. Ideal for young men who love adventure and want to learn how to live their faith in challenging situations.
• Mission Possible: A Daily Devotional (Tim Tebow) – Tim Tebow, a well-known athlete and Christian, inspires young men to find their purpose in faith. His stories are motivating and show how to live with passion and dedication.
• #TRUTH (Josh McDowell) – A solid devotional that encourages youth to ground their faith in the truth of God’s word. It provides clear answers to the questions many young people face today.
• New Morning Mercies for Teens (Paul David Tripp) – A profound devotional that helps young adults deepen their faith. The daily prompts are inspiring and encouraging.
• The Armor of God for Teens (Priscilla Shirer) – A Bible study with daily readings that teaches teenagers to put on the spiritual armor of God. This study is particularly powerful and helps youth remain steadfast in their faith.
• Not a Fan daily devotional (Kyle Idleman) – This book inspires teenagers to live their faith passionately and not just be spectators. It challenges and motivates them to be active followers of Jesus.
• God’s Heart for the Nations – For youth interested in missions and wanting to learn more about God’s heart for the world. A short but powerful book that broadens horizons.
• One God, One Plan, One Life (Max Lucado) – Max Lucado makes Bible reading accessible and exciting, ideal for teenagers who struggle to dive into the Bible. His stories are empathetic and encouraging.

Psalm 119:9-11 reminds us of the importance of keeping God’s word in our hearts to stay on the right path. These devotional books can help teenagers live this truth in their daily lives and strengthen their faith.

A Gift with Lasting Value

A devotional book is more than just a gift; it is a companion on the journey of faith. It offers teenagers the opportunity to deepen their faith and maintain a daily connection with God. With these recommendations, you can give a young person a valuable tool for their spiritual journey. These devotionals are not only inspiring but also practical and relatable, enriching the daily lives of teenagers and helping them strengthen their relationship with God.