Daily Directions for Holy Living, by Richard Baxter (1615-1691)

Richard Baxter, an English Nonconformist church leader and theologian (1615-1691), wrote an inspiring essay on daily living for Christians. Baxter was a strong proponent of human responsibility and emphasized the necessity of man’s response to God’s love and the atonement of Christ. He rejected the Calvinist teachings of limited atonement, viewing Jesus’ death as an act of universal redemption—payment for the sins of the entire world. He believed that repentance and faith are the human responses that bring forgiveness of personal sins and the gift of eternal life. 

The following is a summary of Baxter’s thoughts on living life in Christ (Review our brief summary at the end of the article or read Baxter’s full article.)  

Though written in the 17th century, his words remain relevant today and offer valuable guidance. Baxter emphasizes that consistently following these directions will significantly contribute to a holy, fruitful, peaceful life and a comfortable death. He encourages readers to engrave these practices in their minds and make them part of their daily routine.

May Baxter’s teachings inspire you to commit to Christ-centered and God-honoring daily. Dedicate your heart to Jesus daily, renew your mind with His Word, and find rest for your soul in the joy of your salvation.  Read our summary of his guide for living each day in a holy manner.

Daily Directions for Holy Living, by Richard Baxter (1615-1691)

1. Sleep Management: Allocate appropriate time for sleep, avoiding oversleeping and wasting valuable morning hours.

2. Morning Thoughts: Direct your first waking thoughts to God, offering gratitude and seeking guidance for the day ahead.

3. Efficient Dressing: Choose attire that doesn’t require excessive time to put on, prioritizing efficiency over fashion.

4. Morning Reflection: Use dressing time for fruitful meditation or conversation, considering life’s fragility and your spiritual readiness.

5. Private Prayer: If possible, engage in personal prayer before family worship, but remain flexible based on other duties.

6. Family Worship: Conduct family worship twice daily, including prayer, Scripture reading, and possibly singing.

7. Intentional Living: Begin your day’s work with a clear intention to glorify God in all activities.

8. Diligent Work: Pursue your calling with care and diligence, which brings numerous benefits including time management, obedience to God, and provision for needs.

9. Self-Awareness: Be cognizant of your weaknesses and temptations, maintaining vigilance throughout the day.

10. Productive Solitude: When alone, engage in fruitful meditation, focusing on God’s goodness, Christ’s redemption, and self-reflection.

11. Edifying Conversation: When working with others, strive for profitable discourse.

12. Continuous Spiritual Exercise: Throughout the day, practice internal graces alongside external duties.

13. Time Valuation: Highly esteem your time, guarding against wasteful activities.

14. Mindful Eating: Practice temperance and thankfulness in eating and drinking, prioritizing health over pleasure.

15. Prompt Repentance: If you fall into sin, immediately confess and repent.

16. Relational Duties: Fulfill the specific duties of your various relationships daily.

17. Evening Worship: Return to family and private worship in the evening.

18. Flexibility: Adjust your routine to compensate for extraordinary impediments or to take advantage of special opportunities.

19. Daily Review: Before sleep, review the day’s actions and mercies, expressing gratitude and repentance as needed.

20. Bedtime Reflection: As you prepare for sleep, commit yourself to God and engage in holy thoughts.

Brief Summary:

 Morning Routine

• Wake up promptly, avoiding oversleeping
• Direct first thoughts to God with gratitude and reverence
• Engage in personal and family prayer
• Set your mind on holiness as the day’s ultimate purpose

 Daily Activities

• Approach all tasks with the intention of glorifying God
• Be diligent in your calling to avoid idleness and its pitfalls
• Stay vigilant against temptations and personal weaknesses
• Practice beneficial meditation during solitary moments
• Value time highly, avoiding wasteful activities

 Personal Conduct

• Eat and drink in moderation, prioritizing health over pleasure
• Address sins promptly through confession and repentance
• Fulfill duties in various relationships (family, work, community)

 Evening Reflection

• Review the day’s actions and mercies
• Express gratitude and humility
• Evaluate spiritual growth and preparedness for eternity