Pastor Stephen Dedman

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Devotional For November 30, 2023

When the master of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom.
‭‭John 2:9

In John 2 we find a miraculous moment at a wedding in Cana where Jesus turned water into the finest wine. Verse 9 encapsulates not only the transformation of water into wine but also the essence of Christ’s ministry, showcasing His boundless grace and ability to turn ordinary things into the extraordinary.

We often encounter situations that seem mundane or lacking. Just as the water in the jars symbolize the ordinary, Jesus can take ordinary aspects of our lives and infuse them with His grace. This verse invites us to trust that, in Christ, our moments of lack can become opportunities for abundance.

Remember that Jesus is not only present but is capable of transforming and changing our circumstances. Surrender your ordinary moments to Him, trusting that His grace can turn the ordinary into something great and wonderful. Maybe it’s a job, a position, a relationship or a financial or health situation, Jesus can turn it into something magnificent.

Pray

Lord, I am reminded of Your ability to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. I surrender my life to You, trusting that Your grace can infuse greatness into my circumstances. Turn my ordinary days into extraordinary opportunities to experience Your transformative power. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 29, 2023

Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭30‬:‭5‬

Today’s verse takes us to a place of confidence. Every promise and truth found in the Bible stand as a pillar to guide us through our journey of life.

As we face the challenges of each day, we are not left defenseless. God’s Word is not merely a collection of ancient writings; it is a living and active force, serving as a shield to those who trust in Him. Imagine a shield that withstands the arrows of doubt, fear, and despair – that is the assurance we have in God’s promises.

Trusting in God’s Word is an intentional choice to rely on His wisdom, love, and faithfulness. In moments of uncertainty, when the path ahead seems unclear, we can trust in the unchanging nature of God’s promises. His Word becomes a lamp to our feet and a light to our path, guiding us through the darkest of days.

Renew your commitment to trusting in the Word of God. You can find comfort in its purity, strength in its promises, and guidance in its wisdom. As you put your trust in Him, you will discover that His Word is not just a collection of verses but a source of life, hope, and unwavering security.

Pray

Lord, may Your promises be a guiding light in my life, leading me through every challenge and uncertainty. Grant me the strength to trust wholeheartedly in Your Word, finding in it a shield that guards my heart and mind, and a source of hope. In Jesus’ name, amen

Devotional For November 28, 2023

Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭28:6‬

Christians are called to walk in integrity.  It is the basic element of Christian morality.  Integrity means to do what is right and honest even when no one is watching.  

Unfortunately, there are countless examples of Christians who make their public life appear to be great and wonderful but privately they are living unrighteously.  Integrity calls us to walk in the path of Christ and to steer away from hypocrisy.

Our lives are to be marked by love, compassion, mercy, justice, and fearing God above everything else.  We must be quick to turn from evil and do good.  To know what is the right thing to do and not do it is a sin.  

We all face challenges of integrity that can either make us or break us.  Living a life of integrity means that we set aside popular self-perceptions and model Christ-like behaviors.  When it comes down to it, most of the time you are the only one who knows what you did is right or not.  

If we desire to influence others we must have integrity.  Integrity is crucial in all aspects of leadership.

Pray

Lord, keep me humble and always allow me to remember that when no one else is watching, You are. Help me to be a person of integrity. Keep me in Your sovereign hands. In Jesus’ name, amen.