Pastor Stephen Dedman

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

Paul’s declaration, “to live is Christ,” serves as a powerful reminder of the central focus and purpose of the Christian life. For Paul, every aspect of his existence – his thoughts, actions, and desires – revolved around Christ.

We are called to adopt the same perspective as Paul. Our lives are to be characterized by a singular focus on Christ and His kingdom. Every decision we make, every relationship we cultivate, and every endeavor we undertake should reflect our commitment to honoring and serving Him.

Living with the mindset of “to live is Christ” means surrendering our own desires and ambitions to the will of God. It means living in such a way that our lives point others to the love and grace of Jesus Christ.

Furthermore, Paul’s acknowledgment that “to die is gain” underscores the Christian’s confidence in the hope of eternal life. In Christ, we have the assurance of salvation and the promise of an eternity spent in His presence.

Today, let us echo Paul’s declaration with our own lives: to live is Christ. May we wholeheartedly devote ourselves to Him, seeking to honor and glorify Him in all that we do. And may we live with the confidence and hope that comes from knowing that, in Christ, death is not the end but the beginning of eternal life with Him.

Pray

Lord, help me to embrace the truth that my life is to be lived for Your glory and honor. Help me adopt the mindset of “to live is Christ,” seeking Your kingdom above all else. Thank You for the hope I have in You, knowing that death is not the end but the beginning of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭17‬-‭18‬

In times of trouble and distress, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and alone. We may be tempted to question whether God hears our prayers or cares about our struggles. However, today’s verses reassure us of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness to His people.

First, we are reminded that the Lord hears the cries of the righteous. No matter how desperate or dire our circumstances may seem, God is always attentive to the prayers of His people. He is not indifferent to our pain or suffering but is actively involved in our lives, working on our behalf to deliver us from all our troubles.

Second, we are comforted by the promise that the Lord is near to those who have a broken heart. In moments of grief, loss, or disappointment, God draws near to us with His comforting presence. He is our refuge and strength, offering peace to those who turn to Him in their time of need.

If you’re in a season of distress or brokenness, take comfort in the promises of Psalm 34:17-18. Know that God is with you, and He hears your prayers. Cry out to Him in faith, and trust in His unfailing love to sustain you and bring you through every trial. If you know someone who is in need of encouragement, pass this truth along to them. 

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your promise to hear the cries of Your people and to draw near to those who are brokenhearted. In times of trouble and distress, help me to turn to You in faith, knowing that You are my ever-present help in times of need. May Your comforting presence bring peace and healing to my heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.

…for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬

In today’s verse, the Apostle Paul highlights two essential aspects of our relationship with God.

1. God’s Divine Will: The verse acknowledges that God desires us to align our will with His divine purpose. His will is always perfect and in our best interest. When we earnestly seek His will, we open the door for His guidance and blessings in our lives.

2. God’s Empowering Grace: Not only does God invite us to follow His will, but He also empowers us to do so. This empowerment comes through the Holy Spirit, who works within us, transforming our desires and enabling us to carry out His plans.

As we seek God’s will in our lives, we may face moments of uncertainty or doubt. But God’s Spirit guides and enlightens our hearts, helping us understand His purpose for us.

When we encounter difficulties or obstacles in following God’s will, His empowering grace equips us with the strength and resilience needed to overcome them.

God’s empowerment allows us to live purposefully, fulfilling His good pleasure. When we align our will with His, our lives take on deeper meaning and significance.

Philippians 2:13 reminds us that God is actively at work within us, enabling us to desire and fulfill His divine will. As we seek His guidance and rely on His empowering grace, we can live a life that brings Him glory and aligns with His perfect plan for us.

Pray

Lord, I am so grateful for Your invitation to follow Your will and for the empowering grace of Your Holy Spirit. Help me to seek Your guidance in all aspects of my life and to align my desires with Your purpose. Help me to trust in Your empowerment to fulfill Your good pleasure. In Jesus’ name, amen.