"I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13

Dennis Tinerino was an American bodybuilder in the 1960s and 70’s, winning 4 Mister Universe titles. Dennis was nicknamed the King of Lines, due to exceptional muscle definition, particularly in the abdominal region. Dennis combined incredible muscle tone with perfect proportions and classic aesthetics. He regularly appeared on the covers of famous bodybuilding magazines such as: Iron Man, Strength Health, Muscular Development and more. Dennis also appeared in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s first movie: Hercules in New York.

Dennis found God in prison, after being charged with organized crime and running an escort service. After receiving the gospel behind bars, he later set up his own ministry, preaching the gospel to millions of people all over the world.

His confidence and drive when it came to evangelical work led to him being nicknamed: The Sermonator. Dennis is also the author of: Supersize Your Faith: Tapping Into God's Miracle Power. Now, Dennis rests in Heaven, with him passing in May 2010.

Through Jesus Christ, we can do all things. Today in prayer, look to the Lord for your confidence and trust in His power.

“All of nature depends on hidden resources. The great trees send their roots down into the earth to draw up water and minerals. Rivers have their sources in the snow-capped mountains. The most important part of a tree is the part you cannot see, the root system, and the most important part of the Christian's life is the part that only God sees. Unless we draw on the deep resources of God by faith, we fail against the pressures of life. Paul depended on the power of Christ at work in his life. "I can-through Christ!" was Paul's motto, and it can be our motto too.” - Warren Wiersbe

God’s Word: “But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN PHILIPPIANS †

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” – Philippians 4:12

Considered perhaps the greatest guitarist alive, Christopher Parkening appeared to have it all. Signed to an international recording deal as a teenager, Parkening traveled across the world playing beautiful music. But by the age of 30, having achieved all the musical success he could ever imagine, Parkening felt empty. He was tired of touring and wanted to take a break from the rigors associated. Parkening ultimately decided to move to Montana and took up fly-fishing as a hobby.

Soon Parkening was not only one of the greatest guitarists in the world, but also a world-class fly fisherman, with all the money and time he could ever want. And yet, despite all his success, his life was empty.

He wrote: “If you arrive at a point in your life where you have everything that you’ve ever wanted and thought would make you happy and it still doesn’t, then you start questioning things. It’s the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.”

At this point, Parkening began to wonder if anything could fulfill the deep longings of his heart. Around this time, while visiting friends, Parkening attended church. During the service, Parkening was struck by 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

He explains, “I realized there were only two things I knew how to do: fly fish for trout and play the guitar. Well, I am playing the guitar today absolutely by the grace of God. . .. I have a joy, a peace, and a deep-down fulfillment in my life I never had before. My life has purpose. . .. I’ve learned first-hand the true secret of genuine happiness.” Now Parkening teaches classical guitar to students at Pepperdine University, albeit with a different perspective and lease on life.

Our contentment can be found in Jesus Christ. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that no matter what circumstance you find yourself, you can be content in Jesus.

“You say, 'If I had a little more, I should be very satisfied.' You make a mistake. If you are not content with what you have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled.” - Charles Haddon Spurgeon

God’s Word: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” – Hebrews 13:5

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN PHILIPPIANS †

“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” - Philippians 4:9

Pastor Tony Campolo said the following: “I challenge those who come to me for marriage counseling this way: “If you do what I tell you to do for an entire month, I can promise you that by the end of the month, you will be in love with your mate. Are you willing to give it a try?” When couples accept my challenge, the results are invariably successful.

My prescription for creating love is simple: Do ten things each day that you would do if you really were in love. I know that if people do loving things, it will not be long before they experience the feelings that are often identified as being in love. Love is not those feelings. Love is what one wills to do to make the other person happy and fulfilled. Often, we don’t realize that what a person does influences what he feels.”

The Lord has given us great instruction, now we need to put it into practice. Today in prayer, ask the Lord what you need to start doing to walk closer to Him.

“The teacher must demonstrate in action the truth which he expresses in words.” – William Barclay

God’s Word: “Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.” – Philippians 3:17

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN PHILIPPIANS †

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8

John Wesley’s covenant prayer demonstrates a level of sacrifice and devotion to Jesus that has been rarely matched. The following is his prayer to purely follow Christ:

“I am no longer my own, but yours. Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will; put me to doing, put me to suffering; let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you, exalted for you, or brought low for you; let me be full, let me be empty, let me have all things, let me have nothing: I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things to your pleasure and disposal. And now, glorious and blessed God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, you are mine and I am yours. So be it. And the covenant now made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven.”

Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable; think about such things. Today in prayer, ask the Lord to give you a heart to desire Him and Him alone in all that you do. 

“Use the noble gifts which God has given you!” - Jane Welsh Carlyle

God’s Word: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” – Colossians 3:2

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN PHILIPPIANS †

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6

In his book “Anxious for Nothing”, author Max Lucado writes: “Statistics have recently shown that Americans are the most anxious/stressed out people in the world, so preaching on the topic has some obvious import today. As human beings, we are prone to compare ourselves to others. But what if our entire culture itself is sick? If we are ever going to be displaced as the most anxious country in the world, we are going to need to find outside resources to help us. Recognizing we have a propensity for perfectionist, workaholism is the first step in the process. I hope you enjoy this short story by Max Lucado, which ought to illustrate our own predispositions to be busy-body, stressed-out people:

A native Hawaiian once told me the origin of the name that islanders use for us non-Hawaiians—haole. Haole is a Hawaiian word for “no breath.” The name became associated with the European immigrants of the 1820s. While there are varying explanations for this term, I like the one he gave me: ‘Our forefathers thought the settlers were always in a hurry to build plantations, harbors, and ranches. To the native Hawaiians they seemed short of breath.’”

As Christians, when worry enters our life, we need to draw near to our Heavenly Father and give our anxiety to Him. Today in prayer, give the Lord all of your worries and receive from Jesus His perfect peace.

“No man ever sank under the burden of the day. It is when tomorrow’s burden is added to the burden of today, that the weight is more than a man can bear.” – George Macdonald

God’s Word: “"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?” – Matthew 6:25

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” – Philippians 4:5

In his autobiography “Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections on and Off the Court” former UCLA basketball coach John Wooden begins his book with the following story: “My dad, Joshua Wooden, was a strong man in one sense, but a gentle man. While he could lift heavy things men half his age couldn't lift, he would also read poetry to us each night after a day working in the fields raising corn, hay, wheat, tomatoes, and watermelons. We had a team of mules named jack and Kate on our farm. Kate would often get stubborn and lie down on me when I was plowing. I couldn't get her up no matter how roughly I treated her. Dad would see my predicament and walk across the field until he was close enough to say, ''Kate.'' then she would get up and start working again. He never touched her in anger.It took me a long time to understand that even a stubborn mule responds to gentleness.”

There is strength in gentleness when we are firmly rooted in Christ.  Today in prayer, praise the Lord for His example of gentleness and seek to be more like the Savior.

“Gentleness includes such enviable qualities as having strength under control, being calm and peaceful when surrounded by a heated atmosphere, emitting a soothing effect on those who may be angry or otherwise beside themselves, and possessing tact and gracious courtesy that causes others to retain their self-esteem and dignity.” – Charles Swindoll

God’s Word: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends!” – Philippians 4:1

The Battle of Gettysburg was the pivotal struggle during the American Civil War. On July 2, 1863, the second day of the Battle of Gettysburg, the Battle of Little Round Top commenced. Defending the hill was Union Colonel Joshua Chamberlain of the 20th Maine regiment. The 20th Maine had been greatly weakened from previous battles and only had 266 officers and men from their original 1621. They were the acknowledged “weak link” of the Union Army and were given the farthest flanking position.

Chamberlain was given the order: “This is the left of the Union line. You are to hold this ground at all costs!”

The 20th Maine took their position and braced for the attack by the Confederates who were more than 4 times in number.

Three times the Confederates attacked and three times the 20th repelled their advance.

One key person under Chamberlain was twenty-five-year-old Color Sergeant Andrew J. Tozier. Color sergeant was a dangerous but coveted position in Civil War regiments, generally manned by the bravest soldier in the unit. As the 20th Maine’s center began to break and give ground in the face of the Alabama regiments’ onslaught, Tozier stood firm, remaining upright as Southern bullets buzzed and snapped in the air around him. Tozier’s personal gallantry in defending the 20th Maine’s colors became the regimental rallying point. Were it not for Tozier’s heroic stand, the 20th Maine would likely have been beaten at that decisive point in the battle.

No matter what life may throw at you, stand firm in Jesus. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that in this chaotic world, He is our solid ground!

“Faith expects from God what is beyond all expectation.” – Andrew Murray

God’s Word: “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.” – 1 Corinthians 16:13

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ” – Philippians 3:20

On December 7, 2022, the stands of Wintrust Arena in Chicago were packed, but instead of cheering on a basketball game, nearly 2,000 people were celebrating a personal milestone.

They were taking the oath to become American citizens.

It was the largest naturalization ceremony ever for the Northern District of Illinois, with 120 countries represented.

Funmi Pearson came to the U.S. from Nigeria seven years ago and has dreamed of this day.

"I'm so happy. It's one of my happiest days to become citizen, so I can vote in the next election," Pearson said.

Camelia Mititelu cheered on her father, 89-year old Vasile Grosu, who is originally from Romania. He's the last one in their family to become a U.S. citizen.

"It's a big happiness for us. They work really hard. They went to school in their 80s to learn English," Mititelu said.

Alejandro Monroy and his mother Alba Roscio took the oath together. They left Colombia 21-years ago to start a new chapter in their lives.

Given what's happening with democracy, it's important to understand what it takes to participate in it," Monroy said.

For many of those sworn in Wednesday, it was a long journey to become a citizen, which they said now allows them to fulfill some lifelong dreams.

For all who know Jesus Christ, we have a citizenship, a home in Heaven. Today in prayer, thank the Lord that through His grace, we have a Heavenly home.

“Socrates, being asked what countryman he was answered, ‘I am a citizen of the whole world.’ But ask a Christian what countryman he is, and he will answer, ‘A citizen of heaven.’” – William Secker

God’s Word: “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household” – Ephesians 2:19

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” – Philippians 4:9

Pastor Robert Tallent of Gethsemane Baptist Church in Concord, North Carolina shares the following story: “Four ministers were discussing the pros and cons of various Bible translations and paraphrases. Eventually, each stated which version, in his opinion, was the best. The first minister said he used the King James because the Old English style is beautiful and produces the most reverent picture of the Holy Scriptures. The second said he preferred the New American Standard Bible because he felt it comes nearer to the original Greek and Hebrew texts. The third minister said his favorite was the paraphrased Living Bible because his congregation was young, and it related to them in a practical way. All three men waited while the fourth minister sat silently. Finally, he said, “I guess when it comes to translations and paraphrased editions of the Bible, I like my Dad’s translation best. He put the Word of God into practice every day. It was the most convincing translation I’ve ever seen.”

We need to put into practice what we have learned from the Lord. Today in prayer, take a step of faith and follow Jesus in all that you do.  

“Some dear friends think the GOSPEL can only be accepted. But Jesus & Paul modeled how to live it, serve it & share it daily.” – Rick Warren

God’s Word: “Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” – John 13:17

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14 

Craig Groeschel is the senior pastor of the Oklahoma-based Life.Church, which claims nearly 90,000 attendees at its 34 campuses spread over 10 states. He shares the true story of his “less than promising” career as a pastor. It is a reminder to persevere at God’s calling:

“Only weeks after putting my faith in Jesus, I tried to teach my first Bible study to a group of young guys in a little church in Ada, Oklahoma. Afterward, the leader of the youth group said, ‘Well, I guess teaching the Bible is not your gift, is it?’ Three years later I finally got up the nerve to try teaching the Bible again, after being asked to preach my first sermon.

After the service, as I stood at the door saying goodbye to church members, an older gentleman looked at me with a raised brow and remarked, ‘Nice try.’ Nice try?! The next lady in line asked if I had any other skills besides being a preacher and then made a weak attempt to encourage me to keep my options open. Seriously, that really happened.

I had to fight off the temptation to run and hide in the church baptistry. And yes, full immersion! Despite yet another setback, still believing God’s call, I continued my journey toward full-time vocational ministry by going to seminary following college and marriage.

About halfway through seminary, the day finally came when I stood before a group of spiritual leaders as a candidate for ordination in our denominational church. With the entire committee looking on, the spokesperson explained to me, “We’ve chosen not to ordain you. You don’t have the gift mix we see in most pastors. In fact, we are not sure you are called to be a pastor. But feel free to try again next year. But for now, it’s a no.”

Be persistent in following Jesus in all that you do. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that through His perseverance salvation has come to you. 

“All things are possible to him who believes, yet more to him who hopes, more still to him who loves, and most of all to him who practices and perseveres in these three virtues.” – Brother Lawrence

God’s Word: “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” – Hebrews 10:36

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.” – Philippians 3:17

When Ray Boone was a professional baseball player with Cleveland, his son Bob was hanging around the batting cage in spring training as a 5-year-old. When his father joined the Chicago White Sox, young Bob took batting practice as an 11-year-old, swinging against the future Hall of Fame pitcher Early Wynn.

When Bob Boone grew up, he joined the Philadelphia Phillies, and Bob’s sons Bret and Aaron had their own lockers at Veterans Stadium. During batting practice for the 1979 All-Star Game at Seattle's Kingdome, in which Bob was playing, Bret, then 10 years old, and Aaron, 6, caught fly balls behind their backs in the outfield, a skill taught to them by the Phillies reliever Tug McGraw.

"Everybody was amazed," Bob Boone recalled in an interview with The Cincinnati Post in 2003. "It was quite a show."

We all need to have godly examples to copy so we can live godly lives. Today in prayer, praise Christ for the godly men and women in your life and strive to be more like Jesus.

“If doing a good act in public will excite others to do more good, then “Let your Light shine to all” Miss no opportunity to do good.” – John Wesley

God’s Word: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 11:1

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more” – Philippians 3:4

In 1963, Audrey Hepburn was at the peak of her career when she was cast as Eliza Doolittle in the film “My Fair Lady”. By then she was Hollywood royalty, having received her fourth Oscar nomination a few years earlier for one of her signature roles, Holly Golightly in "Breakfast at Tiffany's." She was chosen over Julie Andrews, who originated the role of Eliza on stage and was a natural in the part. However, the producers wanted someone Audrey for her star power.

However, there was a problem. Audrey couldn't sing. She took singing lessons in an attempt to improve, but still couldn't cut it. As a result, professional singer Marni Nixon was used in the movie to perform the vocals instead Audrey.

We cannot put our confidence in our own talents; we need to place our faith in the One who has given us our talents and abilities.  Today in prayer, confess any sin of pride. Give thanks to Jesus for all the talents and abilities He has given you. 

“Talent is God-given; be humble.” – John Wooden

God’s Word: “For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh” – Philippians 3:3

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.” – Philippians 3:1

Hermann Lange was a Roman Catholic priest who spoke out against the Nazis during World War II. He was guillotined in a Hamburg prison by the Nazi authorities on November 10, 1943. In his prison cell on the night before he was to be killed, Lange wrote a note to his parents. He said two feelings occupied his mind:

"I am, first, in a joyous mood, and second filled with great anticipation." Then he made this beautiful affirmation: "In Christ I have put my faith, and precisely today have faith in Him more firmly than ever." Finally, he urged his parents to read the New Testament for comfort: "Look where you will, everywhere you will find jubilation over the grace that makes us children of God. What can befall a child of God? Of what should I be afraid? On the contrary, rejoice!"

Do not let any troubles come between you and your joy of the Lord. Today in praise, rejoice in Jesus that He has given you eternal life.

“One filled with joy preaches without preaching.” – Mother Teresa

God’s Word: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“For everyone looks out for his own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 2:21

Francesco de Pietro Bernadone was the fun-loving son of a wealthy merchant in Assisi, Italy. One day, while he was in his 20s, he was riding his horse when he encountered a dying leper. He was repulsed by the leper's open sores, but suddenly he saw a picture of himself as Jesus saw him. He jumped off his horse, put all his money into the leper's hand, and gently kissed the leper's hand. It was a profound spiritual experience as he died to self. He began to pray earnestly what God would have him do with his life. He went to Rome and exchanged clothes with a tattered mendicant and stood for the rest of the day fasting among the horde of beggars. He was setting a foundation in his life to become Francis of Assisi.

The Lord calls us to look beyond our own interests and to look to the interests of God and others. Today in prayer, confess any sin of selfishness and seek to be selfless in all that you do.  

“There is no smaller package than a person all wrapped up in himself.” – Peter C. Moore

God’s Word: “Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.” – 1 Corinthians 10:24

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“Do everything without complaining or arguing” – Philippians 2:14

The following are true travel complaints provided by travel agencies around the globe, including TripAdvisor.com and Thomas Cook: 

“A first-time cruise passenger blamed the captain for not warning him that he could get seasick and asked for a schedule of cruises in which he wouldn’t get seasick.”

“The street signs weren’t in English. I don’t understand how anyone can get around.”

“You said the town was next to a volcano, but we went and there was no lava. I’m pretty sure it was just a mountain.”

“We had to cut our trip short to Yellowstone because we were informed that they don’t cage the animals at night for our protection. This is just dangerous and unacceptable.”

And finally. “We had to queue outside with no air conditioning.”

As Christians, we need to curb our complaining and take everything to the Lord in prayer. Today in prayer, confess any sin of complaining and change your complaint into a prayer for help to the Lord.

“Murmuring is wasted breath, and fretting is wasted time.” – Charles H. Spurgeon

God’s Word: “Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!” – James 5:9

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN PHILIPPIANS †

“Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” – Philippians 2:6-7

In 1932, actress Marion Mill married Otto Preminger and the couple settled in Hollywood, CA. Otto began to dabble in movies and he became so interested in movies that he gave up his medical practice, and went on to become the internationally famed movie director. Marion's beauty, wit, and irresistible charm brought her everything a woman desires. In Europe, New York and Hollywood she became a famous international hostess.

But Otto's princess could not handle the fast life of Hollywood. She went into alcohol, drugs and numerous affairs. Her life and lifestyle became so sordid, even for Hollywood, that Otto Preminger divorced Marion. She tried to take her own life three times, unsuccessfully, and finally moved to Vienna.

There at a party she met another doctor, named Albert Schweitzer, the well-known medical doctor, musician, philosopher, theologian and missionary. Schweitzer was home on leave from his hospital in Lambarene, Africa.

She was so fascinated by Schweitzer, that she asked him if she could talk to him alone, and he permitted that. For almost six months, every week, she met with Dr. Albert Schweitzer. At the end of that time, he was to return to Africa, and she begged him to let her go with him. Schweitzer surprised everyone by agreeing. Marion who was born in a palace in Austria went to a little village in Lambarene, Africa, and spent the rest of her life emptying bed pans and tearing up sheets to make bandages for putrid sores on the poverty-stricken nationals.

Jesus calls each of us to serve others. Today in prayer, praise the Lord for His example of being a servant and give Him thanks for the multiple opportunities we have to serve others.

“The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have too much . . . it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little.” – Franklin Delano Roosevelt

God’s Word: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45

Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

Pastor David Jeremiah of Shadow Mountain Community Church in El Cajon, California and Turning Point ministries said the following on humility: “An elderly minister who survived the great Johnstown Flood of 1889 loved to regale audiences with tales of that harrowing event. When he died and went to heaven, he found himself in a meeting of saints who were sharing their life experiences. He took St. Peter aside and asked if he could tell about surviving the Johnstown Flood. Peter hesitated, then said, ‘Well, you can tell your story, but just keep in mind that Brother Noah will be in the audience.’

Next time you’re tempted to talk about yourself, look around the room and see who God might have in the audience.”

The Lord desires that we love Him and humbly walk with Him. Today in prayer, confess any pride and seek to love the Lord, to love others, and to humbly walk with Jesus.

“They that know God will be humble; they that know themselves cannot be proud.” – John Flavel

God’s Word: “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” – Micah 6:8

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN PHILIPPIANS †

“If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.” – Philippians 2:1-2

During the American Civil War, General William T. Sherman drove his troops on his decisive march to the sea. In a fort, Sherman left behind a small contingent of men to guard the rations. General John Bell Hood of the Confederate Army attacked the fort, and a fierce battle followed. One-third of Sherman's men were killed or wounded and J. M. Corse, the general in command, was severely injured. Just as he was about to hoist the white flag and surrender, a message came through the signal corps set up on a chain of mountains. General Sherman was within fifteen miles of the fort and sent the message: "Hold fast. We are coming." Those few words so encouraged the defenders that they held on and kept the fort from falling into the hands of their attackers.

We all need encouragement. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that we have His Word that can encourage us and it can encourage others.

“This ministry of consolation and encouragement is not to be regarded as inferior and of secondary importance. Did we but discern it, we are daily surrounded by lonely, aching and sometimes broken hearts.” – J. Oswald Sanders

God’s Word: “My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ” – Colossians 2:2

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel” – Philippians 1:27

Author and lecturer Zig Ziglar said: “The English word ‘sincere’ comes from the Latin ‘sincerus’, which is derived from the words sine and cereus; meaning ‘without’ and ‘wax’.

I’ve read that when working with wood, many carpenters of long ago would use wax to hide their mistakes or imperfections in the wood. Eventually, when an item of furniture or a carving was finished, it would be stained or polished and the wax would then become indistinguishable. Later on, however, after a little usage and being subject to the elements, the wax would melt or crumble away and the ‘cover-up’ would become apparent.

The more professional woodworkers of the day, however, chose only the finest wood and they worked with extreme care so as not to cause any damage. Of course, this was far more costly in terms of both time and money and so when they went to market place to compete and sell their wares, they would put up a sign that said, ‘sincerus’.

This is really the key to true success: In all your dealings be a person of integrity, and whatever you promise or say or do, be sincere and do it ‘without wax’!”

As Christians, we represent Jesus Christ here on earth. Our lives should have integrity. Today in prayer, praise the Lord for His supreme example of a life lived well and seek to be a person of integrity.

"No man on earth is getting along 'pretty well' without Jesus Christ." - William Fraser McDowell

God’s Word: “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” – Ephesians 4:1

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” – Philippians 1:21

In 1969, Charles Colson was named special counsel to President Richard Nixon at the ripe old age of 38. And then it all came crashing down, as Colson was sent to prison for his involvement in the Watergate scandal. As one pastor put it, Colson’s (former) career was over, but his calling was just beginning.

While in prison, Colson converted to Christianity and began working alongside his fellow prisoners. His passion for his faith and his fellow prisoners birthed Prison Fellowship. Seeing firsthand the injustices in the American prison system, Colson fought for the rights of the incarcerated, including widespread penal justice reform. But that isn’t all. Prison Fellowship has created a number of programs to help inmates, including training to experience healing and wholeness, with the intention of lowering the rate of recidivism (returning to prison). Today, Prison Fellowship serves in all 50 states in the U.S., impacting more than 1,000 prisons and over 365,000 incarcerated men and women each year.

In his 1983 book “Loving God”, Colson shares the realization that his legacy came not from his successes, but from his failures:

“The real legacy of my life was my biggest failure – that I was an ex-convict.  My great humiliation – being sent to prison – was the beginning of God’s greatest use of my life; He chose the one experience in which I could not glory for His glory.”

Life is short, so we need to desire to want to live for Jesus. Today in prayer, praise the Lord for all that He is and seek to live your life for Christ.

“Death to the Christian is the funeral of all his sorrows and evils, and the resurrection of all his joys.” - John H. Aughey

God’s Word: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.” – Philippians 1:17

In 1976, British biologist and atheist Richard Dawkins claimed in his bestselling book “The Selfish Gene” that we can’t expect humans to be anything but selfish: “We are survival machines—robot vehicles blindly programmed to preserve the selfish molecules known as genes.” He also stated: “all life evolves by the differential survival of replicating entities".

One of Dawkins’s fans was former Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling, who pulled off the largest accounting and corporate fraud ever, resulting in shareholders losing $74 billion. He was convicted of federal felony charges relating to Enron's collapse and eventually served 12 years in prison. Skilling said his favorite book was Dawkins’ “The Selfish Gene”, which was in the evolutionary spirit of Darwin’s theory of natural selection.

Pride and selfish ambition can lead to sin and lawlessness. Today in prayer, confess any sin of ambition and seek to follow Jesus.

“The best ambition is: Who shall be servant of all.” – Charles H. Spurgeon

God’s Word: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy” – Philippians 1:4

Max Lucado tells the following story about Robert Reed:

"I have everything I need for joy!" Robert Reed said.

His hands are twisted and his feet are useless. He can't bathe himself. He can't feed himself. He can't brush his teeth, comb his hair, or put on his underwear. Strips of Velcro hold his shirts together. His speech drags like a worn out audiocassette.

Robert has cerebral palsy.

The disease keeps him from driving a car, riding a bike, and going for a walk. But it didn't keep him from graduating from high school or attending Abilene Christian University, from which he graduated with a degree in Latin. Having cerebral palsy didn't keep him from teaching at St. Louis Junior College or from venturing overseas on five mission trips.

And Robert's disease didn't prevent him from becoming a missionary in Portugal.

He moved to Lisbon, alone, in 1972. There he rented a hotel room and began studying Portuguese. He found a restaurant owner who would feed him after the rush hour and a tutor who would instruct him in the language.

Then he stationed himself daily in a park, where he distributed brochures about Christ. Within six years he led seventy people to the Lord, one of whom became his wife, Rosa.

I heard Robert speak recently. I watched other men carry him in his wheelchair onto the platform. I watched them lay a Bible in his lap. I watched his stiff fingers force open the pages. And I watched people in the audience wipe away tears of admiration from their faces. Robert could have asked for sympathy or pity, but he did just the opposite. He held his bent hand up in the air and boasted, "I have everything I need for joy."

Jesus came to bring us life and joy. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that anywhere and at any time, we can have the joy of Jesus.

“I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy, Down in my heart, Down in my heart, Down in my heart.

I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy, Down in my heart, Down in my heart to stay.

And I'm so happy, So very happy, I've got the love of Jesus in my heart.

And I'm so happy, So very happy, I've got the love of Jesus in my heart” – George Willis Cooke

God’s Word: “Be joyful always” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †

“Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 1:2

In “Craddock Stories”, a collection of stories by Pastor Fred Craddock, there is the following account with one who could understand the law, but not grace.

“Pastor Craddock preached in Blue Ridge, Georgia one Sunday while the pastor was away. He preached on the prodigal son. After the service a man said, “I really didn’t care much for that frankly.”

He asked why and the man said he just didn’t like that story because it was morally irresponsible.

Craddock said, “What do you mean by that?”

“Forgiving the boy.” the man replied.

Craddock asked, “Well, what would you have done?”

“I think when he came home he should have been arrested.” answered the man.

Craddock writes, “This fellow was serious. He’s an attorney, I thought. I thought he was going to tell me a joke. But he was really serious. He belonged to this unofficial organization nationwide, never has any meetings and doesn’t have a name, but it’s a very strong network that I call “quality control people.” They’re moral police. Mandatory sentences and no parole, mind you, and executions.”

Craddock then asked, “What would you have given the prodigal?”

He said, “Six years.”

Thank God for His grace.  Today in prayer, praise Jesus for His loving grace toward you.

“Grace is the free, undeserved goodness and favor of God to mankind.” – Matthew Henry

God’s Word: “To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Romans 1:7

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2023, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN Philippians †