Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For October 16, 2024

The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, “You see that you are accomplishing nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him!”
‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭19‬

After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, many people started following Jesus. In response, the Pharisees were frustrated because of the increasing popularity of Jesus. They said, “the world has gone after Him.” This statement, though made by the Pharisees with a sense of alarm, holds a profound truth about the impact of Jesus on the world.

This truth reminds us of the powerful draw that Jesus has. His teachings of love, grace, and salvation have an appeal that goes beyond cultural, geographical, and societal boundaries. People from all backgrounds and walks of life are drawn to His transformative power and message of hope.

What is your response to Jesus? Are you drawn to His teachings, recognizing that He is the answer to our deepest longings? Do you follow Him and share His love with the world around us? 

Jesus’s influence continues to be felt across the globe, and we are called to be part of the world that follows Him.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the profound impact You have on the world. Help me to draw closer to You and share the wonderful message of love and hope with others. Empower me to live out Your example of love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 15, 2024

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 October 14, 2024

But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things.
‭‭I John‬ ‭2‬:‭20‬

The apostle John reassures believers that they have been anointed by the Holy One, referring to the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives. This special anointing enables them to discern spiritual truths and walk in divine guidance.

As followers of Christ, we are not left on our own. Through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, we have been anointed and empowered to live victoriously. This anointing equips us with spiritual insight and discernment, enabling us to know and understand the things of God.

The knowledge that believers possess through the anointing of the Holy Spirit is not mere intellectual understanding but a deep, experiential knowledge of God and His ways. It is a knowledge that transforms hearts, guides decisions, and shapes attitudes. This divine wisdom enables believers to discern truth from falsehood, righteousness from sin, and light from darkness.

How do we embrace the reality of our anointing by the Holy One? We rely on the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of our lives, trusting that He will lead us into all truth. We cultivate a sensitivity to His leading and a willingness to follow wherever He may lead us.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit. Help me to rely on His guidance and wisdom in all that I do, that I may know and understand Your will for my life. Open my heart to receive Your truth and grant me the courage to follow wherever You may lead me. In Jesus’ name, amen.