“Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you.” – Matthew 28:7

Dr. Gerry Landry knew he was having a heart attack as he alerted his wife who called an ambulance. He was rushed to the hospital where he worked, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler.  

"All I remember during the ride to the hospital was calling out the name of Jesus, over and over again," the 55-year old physician recalled.

At the same Emergency Room where he had treated hundreds of patients, Landry found out that his inferior coronary artery had collapsed.

Then his heart suddenly stopped beating.

"I became acutely aware of my spirit separating from my body and I died – pronounced 'clinically dead' at 4:13 p.m.," he said.

Immediately, he said he found himself in heaven.

"A multitude of radiantly beautiful people surrounded me. In spite of the crowd, I looked around and actually recognized some of my late relatives, as well as some historical figures who had preceded me a long time ago. We were in the Eternal Now, without past or future and I was perfectly at ease, full of joy," he said.

Then suddenly, he saw a shaft of light in the center of the crowd, and he saw Jesus.

Dr. Landry said Jesus looked at him and told him, "Gerry, My peace be with you."

The doctor was stunned by the thought that out of the billions of people God created, Jesus knew his name!

"In that moment, for the first time, I understood the essence, the completeness, the fullness of the love of God!" he said.

The Lord then said: "Gerry, you are healed. You will have no more pain, no anxiety, no shame, no guilt. I want you to go back. You'll be home from the hospital in one week. I want you to tell your family, your friends, your fellowships, everyone I will put you in contact with, about My love."

Then Landry sensed his spirit returning to his body. He later found out that his heart stopped beating for four minutes.

"Exactly as Jesus told me, one week later I was home and, to the amazement of my physicians, completely healed," he said.

Five weeks later, Landry resumed his work at the Texas hospital. "There, I shared Jesus' love with many critically ill patients and their families," he said.

Heaven is real and we will one day see Jesus face-to-face. Today in prayer, praise the Lord for His resurrection and that one day we will see Him.

“Belief in the Resurrection is not an appendage to the Christian faith; it is the Christian faith.” – John S. Whale

God’s Word: “In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead?  He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.'” – Luke 24:5-6

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.” – Matthew 27:50

In May 1506, after four voyages to the New World, Christopher Columbus lay dying in his bed in Valladolid, Spain. At the moment of his death he uttered: “Into Thy hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.”

In remembrance of the great explorer, Valladolid erected a monument. Perhaps the most interesting feature of the memorial is a statue of a lion destroying one of the Latin words that had been part of Spain's motto for centuries. Before Columbus made his voyages, the Spaniards thought they had reached the outer limits of earth. Thus their motto was "Ne Plus Ultra," which means "No More Beyond." The word being torn away by the lion is "ne" or "no," making it read "Plus Ultra." Columbus had proven that there was indeed "more beyond."

There is “more beyond” this life. For those who trust in Christ as their Savior - there awaits eternal life. Today in prayer, give thanks to the Lord that through His death on the Cross, your sins are forgiven and you have eternal life with Him.

“Christ took your cup of grief, your cup of curse, pressed it to his lips, drank it to its dregs, then filled it with his sweet, pardoning, sympathizing love, and gave it back to you to drink for ever!” – Octavius Winslow

God’s Word: “Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last.” – Luke 23:46

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.” – Matthew 25:29

Professional Golfer John Daly won the PGA Championship in 1991, the 1995 Open Championship, and two more titles in between. Back then; he was the longest hitter on tour, slamming balls more than 300 yards when such distances were considered novelties. He was a blue-collar hero to many fans who never stopped cheering him on despite his many missteps both on and off the golf course.

His personal life was out of control, which included four wives, allegations of domestic violence, gambling problems, and substance abuse.  His temper, plus the many injuries plagued him through the years, and caused him to lament his lost opportunities and not fully realizing his talents.

"Growing up, I didn't have anybody coaching me on how to manage a golf course and definitely how to manage my life," he said.

No matter what the circumstances, use your talents in such a way that it will bring glory to Christ. Today in prayer, ask the Lord to give you wisdom how to best utilize the talents He has blessed you.

“Use what talents you possess; the woods would be very silent if no bird sang there except those that sang best.” – Henry van Dyke

God’s Word: “Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.” – Mark 4:25

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” – Matthew 25:13

On 14 June 2013, the general cargo vessel Fri Ocean ran aground 2½ miles south of Tobermory, Scotland. The vessel’s bow shell plating and frames were damaged resulting in flooding to the bow thruster room. The 7-man crew carried out a temporary repair, and the vessel was re-floated.

A subsequent accident probe found that the 48-year-old Polish second officer was on duty by himself and had fallen asleep, waking just moments before the ship grounded at 3.22am on June 14. He tried to change the course but it was too late.  The report concluded: "The bridge design encouraged the second officer to sit down which increased the potential for him to fall asleep."  The report recommended the company who own the ship, Kopervik Ship Management, make sure their vessels have two people on duty overnight. 

As events unfold each day, we need to keep watch for Christ’s return. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that Jesus Christ will return. Seek to faithfully prepare for His arrival.

“The best way to prepare for the coming of Christ is never to forget the presence of Christ.” – William Barclay

God’s Word: “You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” – Luke 12:40

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'”” – Matthew 22:37-39

In 2012, in Kaitaia, New Zealand, two young Maori women, who were a part of St Saviours Church, were shocked to discover that there were young mothers in the community who were feeding their babies flour and water, or even Coke because infant formula was too expensive.

The church asked one of their members, Tina Bibb-Kirtlan to help with situation. She formed “Feed My Lambs” which ministers to poor, young mothers. Today, the ministry cares for more than 20 young women at any one time.

“It’s all about building relationships and a support system for these girls,” said Tina. “We talk through situations and how to handle them, using the wisdom in the room. And we always say ‘Come on, we’re going to pray for you. Is that OK?’ Really we’re just being Jesus with skin on and we drop a programme in the middle.”

The Lord desires us to love our neighbor and to actively live our life for Christ. Today in prayer, ask the Lord how you can love your neighbor.

“He alone loves the Creator perfectly who manifests a pure love for his neighbor.” – Bede

God’s Word: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these.’” – Mark 12:31

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” – Matthew 2:2

In August 2016, astronomer Joe Rao wrote for Space.com a possible explanation for the Star of Bethlehem. His theory is that Venus and Jupiter were the two planets spotted by the Magi as they approached their closest viewing to within 4 arc minutes (0.06 degrees) of each other. He wrote: “Two planets coming this close together makes for a very striking sight, if they do not differ too much in brightness.

Interestingly, in August of 3 B.C., Venus and Jupiter were prominent in the predawn eastern sky, and on Aug. 12 they came within just 9 arc minutes (0.15 degrees) of each other as seen from the Middle East. Incidentally, this sign would have been seen by men "in the east," explaining the phrase in the Book of Matthew.

Ten months later, Venus and Jupiter got together again for an even more spectacular encore on June 17, 2 B.C., when at sundown from Babylonia they were separated by just 4 arc minutes of each other, about 35 degrees above the western horizon. As the sky grew dark, the two brightest planets drew closer to each other until finally at 9:15 p.m. local time they drew to within 36 arc seconds (0.01 degree) equal to the mean apparent width of Jupiter as seen through a telescope, at an altitude of 15 degrees above the horizon. To most people, the two planets must have appeared to coalesce into a single "star" somewhat brighter than Venus alone.”

The real star of Christmas is Jesus Christ. Today in prayer, thank the Lord for becoming a man.

“The birth of Jesus is the sunrise of the Bible.” – Henry van Dyke

God’s Word: “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” – Luke 2:8-11

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTION FOR CHRISTMAS

“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave-- just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Matthew 20:26-28

In his book “Celebration of Discipline,” Richard Foster put together a brief comparison of the characteristics of service that is focused more upon us and service that is focused more upon Christ. The following is the comparison:

“Self-focused service is concerned with impressive gains. It enjoys serving when the service is titanic or growing in that direction. Christ-focused service doesn’t distinguish between small and large. It indiscriminately welcomes all opportunities to serve.

Self-focused service requires external reward, appreciation, and applause. Christ-focused service rests content in hiddenness. The divine nod of approval is sufficient.

Self-focused service is highly concerned about results. It becomes disillusioned when results fall below expectations. Christ-focused service is free of the need to calculate results; it delights only in service.

Self-focused service is affected by feelings. Christ-focused service ministers simply and faithfully because there is a need. The service disciplines the feelings.

Self-focused service insists on meeting the need; it demands the opportunity to help. Christ-focused service listens with tenderness and patience. It can serve by waiting in silence.”

During this Christmas season, seek to be Christ-focused in your service. Today in prayer, ask the Lord how you can serve others in His name.

“Do not be ashamed to serve others for the love of Jesus Christ and to seem poor in this world.” – Thomas a Kempis

God’s Word: “Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all.’” – Mark 9:35

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 19:21-23

In 2011, Aubrey McClendon was a member of the Forbes 400 list with a net worth of $1.2 billion. The magazine also named McClendon as “America’s Most Reckless Billionaire” that year.

He was an outspoken advocate for natural gas as an alternative to oil and coal fuels. He was a pioneer in employing fracking, a controversial fuel extraction technique that has been widely criticized on environmental grounds. He lived a lavish, jet set lifestyle and a contemporary who knew McClendon well, "If you're competitive like Aubrey, you just always want to own more."

On March 1, 2016, McClendon was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of conspiring "to rig bids for the purchase of oil and natural gas leases in northwest Oklahoma". The following day, McClendon crashed his Chevy Tahoe into an embankment at a high speed in an apparent suicide.

Oklahoma City Police spokesman Paco Balderrama said: “He pretty much drove straight into the wall. The information out there at the scene is that he went left of center, went through a grassy area right before colliding into the embankment. There was plenty of opportunity for him to correct and get back on the roadway and that didn't occur.”

The love of riches has destroyed many men. Today in prayer, ask the Lord to give you wisdom on how to be a steward of the possessions He has blessed you.

“There is nothing wrong with people possessing riches. The wrong comes when riches possess people.” – Billy Graham

God’s Word: “Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” – Matthew 19:24

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:4

Frederick B. Meyer was born in London and graduated from the University of London in 1869. He studied theology at Regent's Park College.

He was known as a crusader against immorality. He preached against drunkenness and prostitution. He is said to have brought about the closing of hundreds of saloons and brothels.

He became lifelong friends with American evangelist Dwight L. Moody. He wrote over 75 books, including Christian biographies and devotional commentaries on the Bible. He became a popular preacher and drew large followings.

One day a young preacher once approached Dr. Meyer and asked how he could one day become as influential and well known as him. Dr. Meyer responded, “Don’t waste your time waiting and longing for large opportunities which may never come. But faithfully handle the little things that are always claiming your attention.”

During this Advent Season, remember the Lord and walk humbly with Him. Today in prayer, confess any sin of pride and humbly seek the Lord in all that you do.

“We can never have more of true faith than we have of true humility.” – Andrew Murray

God’s Word: “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“The Pharisees and Sadducees came to Jesus and tested him by asking him to show them a sign from heaven. He replied, "When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times.” – Matthew 16:1-3

CNBC looked at how eight meteorological services predicted temperatures and rain across the United States. They found the top two overall were Weather Underground and the Weather Channel with almost an 84% chance of accuracy.

Places like Florida, California and Alaska are easier to forecast with high accuracy. In California, apps predicted rain (or more likely, no rain) in some areas with more than 97 percent accuracy in 2015. Likewise, temperature forecasts are strongest in Florida. Overall, the hardest states to predict the weather in are North Dakota and Montana, where apps are only right about 64 percent of the time.

Additionally, what is perceived as accurate can change depending on how you use a service. That's why some weather services have been known to adjust their predictions to better serve their customers.

One famous example is the "wet bias" — when a forecaster reports a higher probability of rain than his or her models suggest to help keep people from getting wet if it does rain. The logic is that if consumers see that rain is unlikely and get wet, they'll be a lot angrier than if they see that rain is more likely and it doesn't rain.

"Sometimes a less accurate forecast is perceived as being a better forecast," said Eric Floehr, the founder of ForecastAdvisor.

We may be able to predict the weather, but we need to look to the Lord to know the times. Today in prayer, worship the Lord that He has come into the world to save sinners and He will one day return.

“Jesus Christ is God’s last word. Beyond Jesus Christ the revelation of God cannot go. Here is God’s plan for all to see.” – William Barclay

God’s Word: “He said to the crowd: "When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, 'It's going to rain,' and it does. And when the south wind blows, you say, 'It's going to be hot,' and it is. Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don't know how to interpret this present time?” – Luke 12:54-56

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” – Matthew 15:8

Dr. Delesslyn A. Kennebrew writes the following about worship: “Worship is not the slow song that the choir sings. Worship is not the amount you place in the offering basket. Worship is not volunteering in children's church. Yes, these may be acts or expressions of worship, but they do not define what true worship really is. There are numerous definitions of the word worship. Yet, one in particular encapsulates the priority we should give to worship as a spiritual discipline: Worship is to honor with extravagant love and extreme submission (Webster's Dictionary,1828).

True worship, in other words, is defined by the priority we place on who God is in our lives and where God is on our list of priorities. True worship is a matter of the heart expressed through a lifestyle of holiness. Thus, if your lifestyle does not express the beauty of holiness through an extravagant or exaggerated love for God, and you do not live in extreme or excessive submission to God, then I invite you to make worship a non-negotiable priority in your life.

We worship God because he is God. Period.”

Worship the Lord for He is God. Today in prayer, spend some extra time worshipping Jesus and seek to follow Him throughout the day.

“God is not moved or impressed with our worship until our hearts are moved and impressed by Him.” – Kelly Sparks

God’s Word: “The Lord says: ‘These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men.’” – Isaiah 29:13

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” – Matthew 14:14

George Truett was the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas from 1897 until 1944. He was one of the "most famous Southern Baptist" preachers and writers of his era.

George almost left the pulpit once, however. He accidentally shot and killed one of his closest friends, the chief of police, in a hunting accident.

George’s heart was broken. His daughter said that she never heard him laugh after that day.

Praying and crying, George could not bring himself to preach again, until in a vision he saw Christ saying "You are my man from now on." The night that he returned to the pulpit, other local churches closed their doors so that their members could go hear him preach.

George had a radio program, and each day when it came to a close he would say, “Be good to everybody, because everybody is having a tough time.” Because he knew personally what a heavy burden people could be carrying, he encouraged compassion toward them.

Jesus was known for His compassion to others and as His followers that should be our hallmark. Today in prayer, ask the Lord how you can be more compassionate to others.

“The value of compassion cannot be over-emphasized. Anyone can criticize. It takes a true believer to be compassionate. No greater burden can be borne by an individual than to know no one cares or understands.” – Arthur H. Stainback

God’s Word: “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat.” – Mark 8:2

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.” – Matthew 11:21

In 1981, a Minnesota radio station reported a story about a stolen Volkswagen Beetle in California. Police were staging an intense search for the vehicle and the driver, even to the point of placing announcements on local radio stations to contact the thief. Now hundreds of vehicles are stolen each year in California, but this one car brought special attention. On the front seat of the stolen car sat a box of crackers that, unknown to the thief, were laced with poison. The car owner had intended to use the crackers as rat bait.

Now the police and the owner of the Volkswagen were more interested in apprehending the thief to save his life than to recover the car. Often when we run from God, we feel it is to escape His punishment. But what we are actually doing is eluding His rescue. The answer is simple, turn around and return to the Lord.

The Lord wants us to take responsibility for our sins, confess them, and turn away from them. Today in prayer, repent of any sin in your life and seek to follow Christ in all that you do.

“One of the most fundamental marks of true repentance is a disposition to see our sins as God sees them.” – Charles Simeon

God’s Word: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” – Acts 3:19

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28

In his book “The Art of Pastoring: Contemplative Reflections,” author William C. Martin shares the following about the need for rest:

“One of the first things I look at when I begin spiritual direction with a pastor is his or her daily planner. It reveals volumes about that pastor’s spiritual condition, values, fears, and ambitions. It tells me who their bosses are, who their lover is, and how much value they place on their soul. If you’re working more than 50 hours a week, you’re not doing it for God, no matter how eloquent your rationalizations.

Take a long, prayerful, meditative look at your calendar. Who are you trying to impress? God? Give me a break. The congregation? Possibly. Yourself? Bingo!

Now cut some big chunks out of each week for family, rest, meditation, prayer, and flower sniffing. When you’ve done that we’ll talk more about the path to God.”

Are you tired, needing rest? Today in prayer, come to Jesus and you will find rest in Him.

“Work a modest day then step back and rest. This will keep you close to God.” – William C. Martin

God’s Word: “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.” – Psalm 62:1

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another. I tell you the truth, you will not finish going through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.” – Matthew 10:22-23

On December 6, 2016, members of the Evangelical Reformed Church in Bandung, Indonesia were gathered in a hall. Suddenly, dozens of Islamic radicals stormed the hall, interrupting the choir and dispersing the crowd shouting: "You cannot celebrate in a place that is not a church."

The church had rented the hall because their church building could no longer hold their growing congregation. The church is one of the largest Christian churches in Indonesia.

Indonesia is the most populous Muslim nation in the world, and its Constitution guarantees personal freedoms, including that of worship. Christians make up 10% of the population.

Also this year, on September 23, dozens of Islamic fundamentalists protested in front of a Protestant church in Makassar in South Sulawesi, contesting the building permits. On 12 September, a teacher and Catholic catechist was shot dead by unknown assailants in the Puncak Jaya district, Papua province. On 7 September a group of Islamic radicals interrupted the celebration of the Mass in a parish in Surakarta.  

Many Christians in today’s world are being persecuted. Today in prayer, pray for Christians in Indonesia who face persecution daily.

“Persecution for righteousness’ sake is what every child of God must expect.” – Charles Simeon

God’s Word: “All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.” – Mark 13:13

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’” – Matthew 9:37-38

Roy Fish served as a career missionary in Cameroon, West Africa before becoming the

Professor of evangelism and missions at Southwestern Baptist Seminary.

In 2012 Roy went home to be with the Lord. Southwestern Seminary President Paige Patterson eulogized him saying, "Dr. Roy Fish was at once a fabulous lecturer and the most consistent soul winner I know. He lit a fire under thousands of students.

While we support his family in heart-felt prayer, and while he is irreplaceable for us, we rejoice with Dr. Fish and his entry to his Heavenly home. God help us all to love lost people like he did."

Years prior, Roy’s infant son had an illness that brushed him near death. His heart broke at the thought of his son dying. As his son's fragile body lay in a hospital bed, Roy asked in his heart, “What would I regret most if my son died?” As he pondered that question, the answer came clear. “I would regret that he died never knowing how much I loved him.”

The Lord also desires to have everyone know that Jesus loves them. Today in prayer, pray to the Lord that He will raise up more workers to share His Gospel and ask how you can help.

“Every heart with Christ is a missionary, and every heart without Christ is a mission field.” – Dick Hillis

God’s Word: “He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” – Luke 10:2

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, "I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” – Matthew 8:10

George Mueller was a British, Christian evangelist. He was also the Director of the Ashley Down orphanage in Bristol, England, which cared for 10,024 orphans in his life. He was well known for providing an education to the children under his care, to the point where he was accused of raising the poor above their “natural station in life”. He also established 117 schools which offered Christian education to over 120,000 children, many of them being orphans.

On the subject of faith, he said: “God delights to increase the faith of His children. We ought, instead of wanting no trials before victory, no exercise for patience, to be willing to take them from God’s hand as a means. I say—and say it deliberately—trials, obstacles, difficulties, and sometimes defeats, are the very food of faith…We should take them out of His hands as evidences of His love and care for us in developing more and more that faith which He is seeking to strengthen in us.”

In all that you do, exercise your faith in Jesus Christ. Today in prayer, ask the Lord to give you faith in all that you do and to rest in Him. 

“Faith is seeing the invisible, but not the nonexistent.” – A.W. Tozer

God’s Word: “Then Jesus answered, "Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted." And her daughter was healed from that very hour.” – Matthew 15:28

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” – Matthew 7:6-7

Christian author Michelle Cox writes in an article entitled “A God You Can Count On” the following:

“Every few days ‘Facebook Memories’ pops up on my newsfeed with messages or photos I posted several years ago. The ones of my grandbabies always tug at my heart because they’re reminders that those sweet little ones are growing up way too fast.

Other memories are photos from fun times I’ve had at conferences with my crazy writing and film industry buddies, family trips and occasions with friends. Those moments make me smile and remember how blessed I am to have such special folks in my life.

And sometimes, those Facebook Memories provide reminders of a faithful God. That happened one day last week.  

Here’s what I’d written years ago: ‘This morning at the hospital, I stopped at floor #6 and looked at the strip of concrete roof that was my view for the six weeks I spent there after a car wreck. The doctors said I'd never walk normally. They said I'd have arthritis, and I'd have to have a hip replacement within five years. None of that happened, and I just want to thank Him again for all those answered prayers.’”

Jesus does answer our prayers! Today in prayer, bring before Him your needs, worries and cares and be confident that He will answer them.

“The whole canon of Bible teaching is to illustrate the great truth that God hears and answers prayer.” – E.M. Bounds

God’s Word: “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” – Mark 11:24

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“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

In his book “Season of Grace,” Christian author Russ Pond shares his journey from crippling panic attacks to a life of freedom. One step he took is praying the promises of God in the following prayer:

“Father, who lives and rules in Heaven, let your Kingdom come to earth and be established through me (Matthew 6:10). There is no fear, no anxiety, and no panic in Heaven. Establish your Kingdom in my heart, that I may walk in peace, in confidence and in strength. Open the eyes of my heart (Luke 24:31) to see all that you have for me. Show me how I have already been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places (Ephesians 1:3). Help me to receive all that you have for me.

Angels are all around me, ministering to me (Hebrews 1:14). They will guard me according to your word and your command (Psalms 103:20-21). You will not let my foot stumble (Proverbs 3:23). I trust in you, Father, and in you alone. I am your child, and you are my Father (Matthew 23:9). I am seated with Christ in the heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6). I am at rest in your arms.

Father, I look to you as my Source of hope and of peace. You cover me with your wings (Psalm 91:4) and you are constantly fighting for me (2 Chronicles 20:17). Show me that I need not fight, but that I can just rest in you and rest in the promises of your protection (Exodus 14:13). There is no need for me to stress or worry. You will provide everything I need for life, for peace and for protection (Matthew 6:33).

Today, I will not be anxious about anything (Philippians 4:6), but I will pray to you about everything, casting my cares upon you because you care for me (1 Peter 5:7). You will guide me along the best pathway for me life. You will advise me and counsel me (Psalm 32:8). You will never leave me alone (Hebrews 13:5). You are always with me. Always. Sin cannot separate us (Romans 8:38-39), because in Christ, you remember our sins no more (Romans 10:17).

Thank you, Father, that you have begun a good work in me and that you’ll be faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6). I will listen with my heart for you are constantly speaking peace over me (Psalm 85:8). You have the word of life! Father, live in me and through me. I put all my trust in you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today in prayer, pray again the above prayer and put all your trust in Jesus.  

“Stop thinking about your difficulties, whatever they are, and start thinking about God instead.” – Emmett Fox

God’s Word: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:34

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” – Matthew 5:23-24

In the wake of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, there has been a flood of forgiveness and reconciliation. One of those involves Godefroid Mudaheranwa, who was the perpetrator of the wrongs, and Evasta Mukanyandwi, who was the victim.

Godefroid recalls: “I burned her house. I attacked her in order to kill her and her children, but God protected them, and they escaped. When I was released from jail, if I saw her (Evasta), I would run and hide. Then AMI (Association Modeste et Innocent (AMI) was established in 2000 and is very involved in conflict resolution and the reconciliation process in Rwanda) started to provide us with trainings. I decided to ask her for forgiveness. To have good relationships with the person to whom you did evil deeds — we thank God.”

Evasta says: “I used to hate him. When he came to my house and knelt down before me and asked for forgiveness, I was moved by his sincerity. Now, if I cry for help, he comes to rescue me. When I face any issue, I call him.”

Are you estranged from anyone?  Today in prayer, take the first steps of reconciliation. Confess any sin to the Lord, forgive any wrongs that others have done to you, and seek to have restored relationships that are centered on Jesus Christ.

“The number one problem in our world is alienation, rich versus poor, black versus white, labor versus management, conservative versus liberal, East versus West . . . But Christ came to bring about reconciliation and peace.” – Billy Graham

God’s Word: “that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” – 2 Corinthians 5:19

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil.” – Matthew 4:1

In a day and age when many professional athletes succumb to lust and the pressure of sexual temptation, former NFL Player and Super Bowl-winning tight end Ben Utecht said he wore a wedding band even before he was married to guard against the temptation of sexual sin.

Ben, the son of a Methodist pastor, was a star player at the University of Minnesota before playing pro football.

He got engaged in 2004, but waited two years before he and his wife were married. He devised a plan to wear a wedding ring in public as a way of guarding against the sexual temptation that commonly faces famous professional athletes out in public.

"I wore a wedding band throughout that entire time and I wanted to do my best to make sure that my intentions were always front and center," Ben said. "I think that was very important and that protected me. I was also just being careful about the environment that I wanted to put myself into, especially while my fiancé was in Minnesota.

"I just figured that I had gotten her a ring and that obviously told people that she was engaged," he continued. "After talking with her about it, I just said, 'You know what, I know it's not typical, but I would like to have something like that as well so that it just kind of lets anybody else know that this guy is taken.' I thought it was something that gave me a lot of peace and gave her peace as well."

Ben was asked what advice he would give to current Christian athletes that will encounter similar sexual temptations.

"Most importantly, you've got to be in the Word," he said. "Obviously, this analogy has been used quite a bit in sports but the Bible is really God's playbook for our lives. That's where you really begin to know Jesus better and that is when you are spending time in the Word. That may have an effect on your heart and gives you the wisdom and the opportunity to make good choices, according to your faith."

We each face temptations, but only by being in the Word and being guided by the Holy Spirit can we overcome temptation. Today in prayer, pray that Jesus would lead you away from all temptation so that you may walk with Him.

“If you're losing the battle against a persistent bad habit, an addiction, or a temptation, and you're stuck in a repeating cycle of good intention-failure-guilt, you will not get better on your own. You need the help of other people. Some temptations are only overcome with the help of a partner who prays for you, encourages you, and holds you accountable.” - Rick Warren

God’s Word: “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” – Matthew 6:13

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW

“Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Christ.” – Matthew 1:17

In August 2014, author AJ Jacobs published an article that documented that President Barack Obama has 44 cousins in the Senate. He worked with a team of researchers that built the biggest family tree in history.

As it turns out, the President has both Democrats and Republicans as relatives. His Democrat cousins include Jay Rockefeller (D-West Virginia) is Obama’s 12th cousin; Mark Udall (D-Colorado) is Obama’s 10th cousin, once removed; Tom Udall (D-New Mexico) is Obama’s 11th cousin, once removed; and Elizabeth Warren (D - Massachusetts) is Obama’s ninth great aunt’s third great nephew’s wife’s second great niece.

His Republican cousins include Texas Senator Ted Cruz (the husband of Obama’s 14th cousin, once removed); Jeff Sessions (R-Alabama) is Obama’s 12th cousin, thrice removed; Richard C Shelby (R-Alabama) is Obama’s 17th cousin, once removed; Rand Paul (R-Kentucky) is Obama’s fifth cousin five times removed’s husband’s third cousin five times removed; and John McCain (R-Arizona) is Obama’s 11th cousin, twice removed.

Jacobs states: “It’s my hope and belief that our species has a built-in bias to treat known family members – even distant ones – with more humanity than strangers.”

Though some people have an interesting family tree, only Jesus is the son of Abraham and the son of David. Jesus Christ is the Promised Son. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that He became a man, just as our Heavenly Father promised.

“The Son of God became a man to enable men to become the sons of God.” – C.S. Lewis

God’s Word: “Now Jesus himself was about thirty years old when he began his ministry. He was the son, so it was thought, of Joseph, the son of Heli … the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.” – Luke 3:23, 38

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2016, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN MATTHEW