May 20

Christian Women Devotionals

 Lucy Hutchinson (1620–1681) was an English Puritan writer, theologian, and translator whose intellect, piety, and literary skill made her one of the most remarkable women of the 17th century. Born into a well-connected Puritan family, she was educated in classical languages, theology, and the arts — rare accomplishments for a woman of her time.

Lucy married Colonel John Hutchinson, a Puritan officer and Member of Parliament, and stood firmly by him through the English Civil War and the Commonwealth. After his death, she dedicated her life to spiritual reflection and writing. Her most famous works include a memoir of her husband (Memoirs of the Life of Colonel Hutchinson), a theological treatise on creation (Order and Disorder, a poetic rendering of Genesis), and what is considered the first complete verse translation of Lucretius’ De Rerum Natura into English.

Deeply committed to Scripture, Lucy also translated several biblical texts and devotional writings, weaving her Puritan theology into every line. Though she lived through upheaval, loss, and political change, her pen never lost its clarity or courage.

Lucy’s Final Words (as remembered by her daughter):

“Let my ink fade, but not His truth.”
Spoken while holding her final manuscript, her fingers stained with years of faithful writing and worship.

Source: Private family letters, compiled posthumously in 1685.

Selected Anecdotes:

The Quill at Midnight
Lucy often wrote late into the night by candlelight, particularly during her husband's imprisonment. One servant remembered hearing whispered psalms through the door.

The Silent Pulpit
When women were barred from theological teaching, she wrote commentaries that circulated among Puritan families, bearing titles like Meditations in Exile.

The Widow’s Devotion
After Colonel Hutchinson's death in prison, she refused remarriage or courtly life, saying, “The Lord was now her sole protector.”

Scripture in Verse
She translated large portions of Genesis into elegant poetic form, believing that God’s order could be best preserved in rhythm and reverence.

The Hidden Letters
Her private writings were often signed only with initials. She said, “Let Christ’s name be remembered, not mine.”

Famous Quotes Attributed to Lucy Hutchinson:

"The Bible is not merely read — it must be rewritten in the soul."
"To study truth is to suffer well."
"Poetry bends low before Scripture, not above it."
"If I lose my place in courts, I gain it in heaven."
"My husband’s sword was sharp, but my pen defends no less."

Legacy:

Lucy Hutchinson is remembered as a rare voice of female theological clarity in an age of turmoil and gendered silencing. She wielded her pen as both a mirror and a torch — reflecting God’s Word and illuminating its truth. Her blend of scholarship, devotion, and loyalty has inspired historians, poets, and Christian women alike. In every line she penned, she proclaimed that intellect belongs to God, and faith is not the domain of silence.

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals

Christian Women Devotionals