Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For December 17, 2024

Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬

The author of Hebrews underscores the importance of paying careful attention to the truths of the gospel and the message of salvation proclaimed to us. Neglecting or disregarding these truths can lead to spiritual drifting.

In our fast-paced and often distracted lives, it’s easy to become complacent towards spiritual matters. However, the consequences of such neglect are significant—we risk drifting away from the core foundation of our faith and losing sight of the hope and joy we have in Christ.

Just as a sailor must constantly adjust the sails to stay on course, so too must we continually refocus our hearts and minds on the truths of God’s Word to avoid spiritual drifting and getting off course. This requires an intentional effort and a commitment to prioritize our relationship with God above all else.

Paying close attention to the things we have heard involves more than just listening; it requires us to be actively engaged. We must not only hear the Word but also apply it to our lives, allowing it to shape our beliefs, attitudes, and actions. This means spending time in prayer, studying Scripture, and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit daily.

As we pay close attention to God’s Word, we guard against spiritual drifting and we grow in our relationship with Him. Our faith becomes anchored in the truths of the gospel, providing stability and confidence even in life’s storms. Let’s remain vigilant in our pursuit of God and His kingdom.

Pray

Lord, thank You for giving me understanding of Your Word and the message of salvation. Help me to pay close attention to Your truths. Give me a hunger for Your Word and a sensitivity to the leading of Your Spirit in my life. May I continually find strength and hope in You alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For December 16, 2024

My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭1‬:‭10‬

The book of Proverbs, written by King Solomon, is filled with practical wisdom for living a life that honors God. In the opening chapter, Solomon addresses his son, urging him to embrace wisdom and reject the influences of the wicked. Proverbs 1:10 serves as a critical warning against yielding to the enticements of sinners.

In today’s world, we are surrounded by influences that encourage us to compromise our values, whether through peer pressure, media, or cultural trends. Temptation often whispers, “Everyone is doing it,” or, “It’s no big deal.” But as believers, we are called to stand firm, resisting the pull to follow a path that leads away from God.

If you stay rooted in God’s Word, you will equip yourself to recognize and resist temptation. When God’s Word is your foundation, you are less likely to be swayed by sinful enticements.

The people you surround yourself with have a significant influence on your decisions. Proverbs 13:20 advises, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” Seek friendships that encourage godliness and hold you accountable.

Is there an area in your life where you feel tempted to follow the wrong crowd or make compromises? Ask God for wisdom and strength to resist. Remember, saying “no” to temptation is saying “yes” to God’s perfect plan for your life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. Help me to stand firm when temptation comes, and give me the courage to say no to sin. Surround me with godly influences and fill me with Your Spirit so I can walk in Your ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotion For December 15, 2024

For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭38‬-‭39‬

Paul listed a series of potential obstacles and challenges—death, life, angels, principalities, powers, present circumstances, future uncertainties, height, depth, and any other created thing—and declared that none of them have the power to separate us from God’s love.

This assurance of God’s unshakeable love provides comfort and security to believers in every season of life. In times of trial and tribulation, we can take refuge in the knowledge that God’s love for us remains constant and unwavering.

The love of God transcends all human understanding and surpasses all earthly bounds. It is a love that knows no limits and reaches to the deepest depths and highest heights. It is a love that extends beyond time and space.

Take a moment to reflect on the unbreakable love of God as expressed in Romans 8:38-39. Allow the truth of these verses to penetrate your heart and fill you with confidence and peace. And may you be strengthened and encouraged to live boldly and confidently in the love of Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the unbreakable love. Help me to grasp the depth and breadth of Your love, and to live each day in the assurance of Your unfailing faithfulness. May Your love be my anchor in the storms of life, and may it empower me to live as bold witnesses of Your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, amen.