Whiter Than Snow
September 3rd, 2008
(Review by Nathan Williams)
The story of David’s adultery with Bathsheba and subsequent murder of Uriah, her husband, stands as one of the saddest instances of sin in the Bible. How could such a man of God fall so far and so hard? The truth is that without the story of David, Bathsheba and Uriah, we would not have one of the most magnificent Psalms contained in the pages of Scripture. I would imagine that multitudes of Christians throughout the centuries have returned time and again to the words found in Psalm 51 to help express their own sorrow for sin and their own desire to experience God’s mercy.
Paul Tripp understands that the story of David and Bathsheba is really the story of every Christian. We may not sin in the exact same way in which David did, but we all constantly sin and we are all in need of constant mercy. With this in mind, Tripp wrote this short book entitled Whiter than Snow: Meditations on Sin and Mercy. In it he gives 52 short meditations which are all taken from the words of Psalm 51.
The themes of these meditations center on sin and mercy. As one reads this book, he will uncover the depths of sin contained within his own soul, but will also come face to face with the limitless mercy God provides to overcome sin. The meditations are short and helpful, each one is only a couple of pages long. Tripp uses a variety of approaches to meditations including several long poems concerning the topics of sin and mercy.
One of the most helpful aspects of this book is the example it will provide the reader of how to meditate on the Word of God. Most of us read our Bibles and don’t push ourselves to think deeply about it. Tripp has obviously spent a lot of time thinking about Psalm 51. He draws thoughts out of the text through meditation on the context, the background, and the words used in Psalm 51. He discusses the great biblical themes presented in Psalm 51 including sin, mercy, God’s grace, and forgiveness.
At the end of each meditation, Tripp provides 2 questions dealing with how the reader can further apply to daily life the truths learned. These questions are thought provoking and challenging and will also help in the process of learning how to meditate on God’s Word.
Obviously, this devotional should be read slowly, only one or two meditations per day. Each meditation conveys a kernel of truth or a challenging thought which the reader can dwell on throughout the rest of the day. Tripp writes clearly and with great insight into the human condition and the grace of God. I found this book to be an encouraging and convicting at the same time.
I heartily agree with Nathan’s recommendation of Whiter than Snow by Paul David Tripp. I have been reading it for about two months now and it is profoundly affecting my thinking on Sin and Mercy. In fact as soon as I finish, I am going to read it again. I have found that about one chapter a day is all I can deal with and often read the same one two days in a row.
For years I have been struggling with an area of sin in my own life where victory has been temporary at best. Tripp’s writing is very personal and penetrating and yet you want more. It’s like medicine that tastes bad but you can tell is making you well. One thing I am learning is that my sin is really all about Lordship. When I fail in an area it is not so much about the action itself but me wanting to be on the throne of my life and not Jesus Christ. Me wanting to be autonomous. Me placing my will above God’s. This is not entirely new thinking for me but Tripp has a way of getting it inside your flesh to your soul
Although I am not usually a big fan of poetry, Tripp’s is unique and effective. This is an outstanding work worthy of every Christian’s time. But be ready for some work in your life by the Holy Spirit. If you read it honestly it will alternately bring you to your knees and lift you to Heaven.
Norm Eddy