Pastor Stephen Dedman

September 28, 2024 – 10 Questions That Matter

Question #6 – Are you mentoring someone?

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭19‬

Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He gave His disciples a powerful mandate to go out into the world and make disciples. This command is for all believers to go out and raise up new followers of Christ.

A way of making new disciples is to mentor other people who need spiritual guidance. In the early church, Paul was an excellent example of mentoring through his relationship with Timothy. He poured his life into Timothy, teaching him in the ways of the Lord, encouraging him in his faith, and preparing him to lead others.

Mentorship is a biblical principle that is rooted in the life of Jesus and His disciples. Just as Jesus invested His time, energy, and wisdom into His followers, we are called to do the same. We often overlook this responsibility, thinking it’s only for pastors or church leaders. Discipleship is not just about sharing the gospel, but it includes guiding, teaching, and walking alongside someone as they grow in their faith.

When you mentor someone, you’re multiplying the work of God in the world. You are equipping others to grow deeper in their relationship with Christ, and they in turn can mentor someone else. This process builds the kingdom of God far beyond your personal reach.

Are you mentoring someone? Are you investing in the spiritual growth of someone else? Mentoring doesn’t have to be intimidating. It could be as simple as meeting with someone over coffee and praying together about the things that are happening in their life. Just making yourself available is what matters most.

Pray and ask God to open your eyes to someone who could benefit from your guidance and wisdom.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the Great Commission. Help me to be obedient to this command and to recognize the importance of mentoring others in their spiritual walk. Give me wisdom and patience to encourage others around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

September 27, 2024 – 10 Questions That Matter

Question #5 – Do you have a generous heart?

I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭20‬:‭35‬

When Paul was addressing the elders in the church at Ephesus, he emphasized a principle that reflects the heart of Christ: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” These words, originally spoken by Jesus, reveal the power of generosity. But what does it mean to live with a generous heart and mindset?

Jesus, the ultimate model of generosity, consistently gave of Himself during His time on earth. He gave His time, His healing touch, His teachings, and ultimately, His life for the salvation of the world.

Paul reminds us of this truth, that giving brings a blessing far greater than simply receiving. This is not to say receiving is bad, but there is a deeper joy, fulfillment, and divine blessing that comes with a life of generosity. The heart behind giving reflects God’s nature—He is a giving God, and we are called to reflect His character.

A generous heart is not just one that gives occasionally or when it’s convenient. It’s a heart that looks for opportunities to bless others. It’s a mindset that sees giving not as an expense, but as a gain—a spiritual gain that aligns us more closely with the heart of God.

Generosity flows freely from a heart that fully trusts in God. Is God calling you to be more generous?

Pray

Lord, thank You for showing me what true generosity looks like. Help me to live with a generous heart and mindset. Open my eyes to see the needs around me, and give me the courage to give selflessly, trusting that You will provide for all my needs. May my generosity reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.

September 26, 2024 – 10 Questions That Matter

Question #4 – Do you make prayer a priority?

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
‭‭I Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬

Writing to the Christians in Thessalonica, Paul reminded them that prayer should not just be a reaction to crisis or blessings, it is meant to be an ongoing dialogue with God. Constant communication with God involves praising Him, asking Him, and thanking Him.

Communication with God should be an important part of our day. Further, it should be a natural thing to pray to our Heavenly Father. He desires to fellowship with us.

We should always be ready to turn to God, whether in praise, thanksgiving or with supplication. Often we turn to God for last resorts or when we are desperate or nowhere else to turn. Does this sound familiar?

Paul’s instruction should challenge us to seek God in all things. Making prayer a priority transforms our outlook on life, sets a positive foundation, and includes His presence in our activities.

To make prayer a priority in your life, start with incorporating short prayers throughout the whole day. Start with praising God for a new fresh day, ask Him to keep you from evil, and thank Him for His grace and mercy. Keep an ongoing conversation reflecting on what comes to your heart and mind.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the gift of prayer. Help me to make prayer a priority. Teach me to pray. Guide me through this day as I seek Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.