Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For November 15, 2024

For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us;
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭9‬:‭24‬

In the Old Testament, the high priest would enter the earthly holy of holies to offer a sacrifice for the sins of the people. However, the author of Hebrews reveals a greater reality — Jesus, our eternal High Priest, has entered heaven itself on our behalf. 

This verse points to the continuous work of Christ for us. He stands before the Father, representing us, and making a way for our forgiveness and reconciliation. Our Savior doesn’t enter an earthly sanctuary but the heavenly realm, securing an everlasting redemption.

We can find much comfort in the truth that Jesus is actively interceding for us in the heavenly places. His work on our behalf is not confined to a temporal space but is eternal and effective. 

Today’s meditation of Scripture gives us assurance that Christ is working on our behalf. When we face a challenge or trial, just know that Jesus is there to give us victory. Don’t let the weight of this world beat you down. Keep your eyes focussed on the eternal victory. 

Pray

Lord, thank You for working on my behalf. My trust is in You for all things to work out for Your glory. Give me hope and assurance today to keep my eyes looking toward heaven. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 14, 2024

Then he said, “O Lord God of my master Abraham, please give me success this day, and show kindness to my master Abraham.”
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭24‬:‭12‬

In the 24th chapter of Genesis, we are given a special story. It’s the story of Abraham sending his servant, Eliezer, on a mission to find a wife for Isaac. Abraham trusted Eliezer to find the perfect woman. 

Interestingly enough, Abraham thought his inheritance and blessing would fall upon Eliezer according to Genesis 15:2. Now, Eliezer was replaced with Isaac and yet through the years, he remained a faithful servant. On this mission, we see the attitude and heart of a servant who pleases God. 

As he prayed, he asked God to show him the perfect woman that would be just right for Isaac. He stayed focussed until he accomplished what he set out to do. He even praisesGod when he finds her. 

Have you ever prayed and askedGod to give you a servants heart? Have you prayed and asked God how you might be a blessing to someone else? Ask God to use you in a powerful way. 

Pray

Lord, give me the heart and attitude of a true servant. Allow me to be a blessing to someone today. Let my actions prove that I belong to You. In Jesus’ name amen.

Devotional For November 13, 2024

If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.
‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭26‬

Jesus speaks these words to His disciples during the final days of His earthly ministry, just before He is to suffer on the cross. Jesus emphasizes the cost of discipleship and the connection between service, following Him, and divine honor.

As His followers, Jesus invites us into a life of service and discipleship. True service involves following Christ closely, aligning our actions with His teachings, and being where He is—both in physical presence and spiritual alignment. This involves sacrificial love, humility, and a commitment to living out the principles of God’s kingdom. In doing so, we receive the promise that the Father will honor us.

Today, consciously choose to serve Christ. This may manifest in acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness. It may require you to step out of your comfort zone, just as Christ did during His earthly ministry.

Pray

Lord, I come before You with a heart open to Your guidance. Teach me to be a true servant, following closely in Your footsteps. Grant me the strength to serve selflessly, the humility to follow obediently, and the grace to embody the values of Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.