This is the best family devotional we carry. Each of the 107 questions of the Westminster Shorter Catechism are clarified for families in easy-to-understand language that isn't reductionist or over-simplified. For each question there are six meditative daily readings for 107 weeks of study, each one supplemented by appropriate Scripture readings taken from the support texts in the Catechism itself.
An excellent balance of spiritual principles, theological insight and practical application make Training Hearts, Teaching Minds a wonderful text for instructing children in the basic doctrines of the Reformed faith. Because the readings are short, family devotions can easily include discussion of the material. But this isn't light stuff—Meade treats each question in-depth and provides thorough explanations for even the most difficult concepts so that both children and parents will benefit from this unique book.
Because six days are spent on each question memorization is much easier, especially if the actual question and answer are read before each daily meditation. And while this is intended primarily for use in a family setting, it also works well as a Sunday school text or classroom study. There are no questions provided by the author, but each entry is poignant enough you should have no problem generating discussion or review questions of your own. If you're looking for a Bible study-based devotional, Training Hearts, Teaching Minds isn't one. But if you want the kind of family devotional that will instruct your children doctrinally while spurring the whole family to greater pursuit of holiness, this is the one you want.
Review by C. Hollis Crossman
C. Hollis Crossman used to be a child. Now he's a husband and father who loves church, good food, and weird stuff. He might be a mythical creature, but he's definitely not a centaur. Read more of his reviews
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