How to Use Short Devotions for a Big Impact

Short devotions are a great way to get into God’s Word when you don’t have a lot of time. I’m a big fan for that reason. But are short devotions just for busy seasons?

Today I’m sharing with you why I love these quick, power-packed short devotions, how I use them and how you can multiply the impact they have in your life.

Let’s jump right in.

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The Underestimated Power Punch of Short Devotions

It might have been during those foggy days of being a new mom. Or perhaps it went even further back to my all-nighters in grad school.

I’m not sure exactly when I fell in love with short devotions but I’m certain it’s a long held love affair.

At first it would be devotional books with the words “five minutes” in the title.

But when smart phones grew in popularity, having a devotional on your phone, let alone an entire Bible, became so much easier. And so began my love affair with devotional apps.

3 of My Favorite Apps for Short Devotions

1. YouVersion

Chances are you’ve heard of this popular Bible app. Thanks to technology you can carry around over a hundred versions of the Bible right on your phone. What I love about YouVersion is the ability to sign up for Bible reading plans. For me this is where the real magic happens.

Following a Bible plan takes the guess work out of what to read, especially on those busy mornings. I love waking up knowing exactly what I’m going to focus on and the continuity of studying a particular topic or book.

Recently, they’ve added a feature that allows you to search for Bible plans based on emotions, so if you feel discouraged for example, there’s a plan for that.

2. First 5 app

The First 5 App is a daily devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries is sent directly to your mobile device. It includes scripture verses, beautiful images, and devotional thoughts, followed by a prayer.

The First 5 app also takes you through a book of the Bible at a time, so it’s not at all haphazard. You can use the free app by itself or dig a little deeper by using their Experience Guides.

3. Beloved Women App

This daily devotional app is another great source for short devotions. But don’t let the length of the devotions fool you. You’ll find Power-packed truths in these bite-sized posts.

The Beloved Women app features a daily reading along with prayer and reflection questions. And each devotional features a different writer bringing a fresh perspective to God’s Word.

Best Devotional Apps for Women

There are lots of devotional apps out there, so I rounded up this list of devotional apps recommended for busy women by busy women. You’ll be sure to find your new favorite there.

Before none any

I know some might frown upon these short devotions and might even suggest that there’s just not enough depth to make them worthwhile. In response, I’ll quote a line I’ve heard from my mom many times.

“Before none, any”, she would say, suggesting in this case that sometimes some is better than none.

Too often, we find ourselves in a rut because we’re waiting for the perfect time and the perfect window of opportunity to have an hour-long devotional time. And guess what? It seldom appears.

I don’t know about you, friend but my circumstances don’t always cooperate with my good intentions.

Rather than pine over the fact that my ideal quiet time is difficult to come by, I can get God’s Word in by any means necessary. And that for me often takes the form of a short power-packed devotional.

Having said that, I still encourage you (and me) to make it your heart’s desire to dig deeper into God’s Word.

Dig Deeper

You can start with the same short devotional and explore the Word more fully with a little extra time.

The PROSPER Bible Study Method by my first Christian blogging mentor, Arabah Joy is a fantastic way to dig deeper into the Bible. PROSPER stands for Pray, Read, Observe, Study, Ponder, Engage and Repetitive Action.

With this method you can choose a short passage from your daily devotions that you can then spend a little more time on throughout the week.

Love the Word Bible Study Binder

To help you dig deeper in the Word, Arabah Joy’s Love the Word Bible Study Binder (affiliate link) includes 5 video tutorials on the PROSPER method to get you started.

And speaking of digging deeper, the binder also includes sheets for journaling, sermon notes and my favorite monthly Write the Word Challenges — which are perfect, by the way, for those short devotions. 🙂

So, when you’re ready to spend more time in the Word, you’ll have everything you need all in one place.

See all that’s included here.

How about you?

Are you a fan of short devotions like me? And do you have a favorite devotional app?

Have you tried the PROSPER Bible Study method as yet?

I invite you to share your thoughts in the comments.

Wishing you blessings,

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P.S. This post has been updated for your benefit. It first appeared on this site in 2018 and was updated in February 2020 to bring you the most accurate and relevant information.

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