Category: Devotional

Whatever Matters Most

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Before closing the study of joy from Philippians, I want to go back and focus on a few power-packed scriptures from this short book that’s written about an unlikely perspective- joy, found in an unlikely place- prison. 

I say unlikely because for me I tend to equate the presence of joy with circumstantial ease. You probably do as well. That’s why we spend so much time and energy trying to control and manage our circumstances or environments so that we experience ease, comfort, and peace.  Continue reading “Whatever Matters Most” →

Provision for Joy

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In the next couple of weeks, I’ll be wrapping up my study in Philippians. Today I’m jumping to the end of this short book that has much to say about finding joy in unlikely places. The focal verse comes from the final section of writing, and in my Bible it’s entitled “God’s Provision.”

Paul writes in chapter 4:19-

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Continue reading “Provision for Joy” →

Gaining What Matters

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Every time a school year begins, I’m reminded that I’m a teacher at heart. Getting organized with books and notebooks and preparing a classroom for a new group of students was something I approached with excitement. I worked hard to equip students with goals and strategies so that they would have a successful year. I wanted them to learn, to work hard, and to accomplish all that they could. Even though I don’t currently have a classroom to prepare, every year about this time, I’m excited and ready for the return of routine and schedules that fall brings. Continue reading “Gaining What Matters” →

Taking the Land

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I’m taking a pause in Philippians this week to share a personal testimony of God’s work in my life.

As I’ve written before, my sister and I share the responsibility of helping and caring for our dad who not long ago celebrated 92 years. We have been encouraging him for the last two years to move into an apartment in a senior community, but every time a unit has come available, he has refused. Continue reading “Taking the Land” →

The Therefore Transition

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This week I’ve continued to read and meditate on the final portion of Philippians 2:12-30. Here Paul narrows the focus on what a life looks like when we choose the mind of Christ and how rejoicing comes as a natural outflow of that choice.

In Philippians 2:12, Paul transitions with therefore, meaning that he is getting ready to identify the consequence or result of something previously stated. Here he’s identifying the result of having the mind or attitude of Christ Jesus. Continue reading “The Therefore Transition” →