Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For May 13, 2024

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.
‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬

Life is filled with its share of trials, hardships, and uncertainties. From personal struggles to global crises, we encounter tribulations of various kinds that can shake us to our core. In moments of difficulty, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless, wondering where we can find peace.

Yet, in the midst of life’s storms, Jesus offers to find our peace in Him. He doesn’t promise a life free from trouble, but He assures us that His presence and victory over the world are greater than any challenge we may face. In Christ, we can find a peace that transcends our circumstances, a peace that anchors our souls even in the midst of life’s fiercest storms.

When we fix our eyes on Jesus and anchor our hearts in His promises, we discover a peace that the world cannot give nor take away. It’s a peace that surpasses understanding, a peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). In Jesus, we find not only peace but also hope, strength, and courage to face whatever trials may come our way.

So, as we navigate the challenges of life, let us take heart in the words of Jesus. Let us find our peace in Him, knowing that He has already overcome the world. May His presence be our refuge and strength, sustaining us through every trial and leading us into His perfect peace.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the peace and hope I have in You. Help me to set my heart and mind on Your glory as I endure the trials and sufferings I face today. Give me joy in seeking Your presence and searching Your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For May 12, 2024

Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her:
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭31‬:‭28‬

Who are the mothers or mother figures that have impacted your life? Motherhood is far more than biological maternity. It’s a reflection of a nurturing, sacrificial love that can be found in many relationships and roles.

Proverbs 31 paints a beautiful picture of a woman who embodies the qualities of a nurturing caregiver. She speaks with wisdom, provides guidance and instruction, and diligently cares for her household. Her children and husband rise up to honor and bless her, recognizing the invaluable role she plays in their lives.

This biblical description of a godly mother serves as a model for women who aspire to live out their faith in practical ways within their families and communities. It emphasizes the importance of character, integrity, and faithfulness in fulfilling the role of a mother and nurturer.

On this Mother’s Day, take time to express your gratitude and love for all those who have nurtured and cared for you. Whether it’s through a simple thank-you note, a thoughtful gesture, or spending quality time together, let us take the opportunity to honor the mothers and mother figures in our lives.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of motherhood and the mothers who have blessed me. Help me to honor and appreciate the mothers and mother figures in my life, recognizing their invaluable contributions. Help me to grow in Your likeness and extend grace to those who may need a blessing as well. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For May 11, 2024

Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭12‬:‭7‬

The story of Peter’s miraculous deliverance from prison illustrates the incredible power of prayer in times of trouble. Despite the seemingly hopeless situation, the church fervently prayed for Peter, trusting in God’s faithfulness and ability to intervene on his behalf. Their prayers were answered in a miraculous way, as an angel of the Lord intervened, freeing Peter from his chains and leading him to safety.

This account reminds us that, as believers, we serve a God who hears and answers prayer. When we face trials, challenges, or persecution, we can turn to God in prayer, confident that He is able to work in ways beyond our understanding. Like the church in Acts, we can unite in prayer, seeking God’s intervention and trusting in His faithfulness to deliver us according to His perfect will.

The example of Peter’s deliverance should challenge us to prioritize prayer in our lives, especially in times of trouble or adversity. Instead of relying solely on our own strength or understanding, let us turn to God in prayer, seeking His wisdom, guidance, and intervention. Whether facing personal struggles, challenges in our communities, or global crises, prayer is a powerful weapon that can move mountains and bring about God’s purposes.

Additionally, let us cultivate a lifestyle of prayer, continually seeking God’s presence and aligning our hearts with His will. Through prayer, we can experience intimacy with God, find peace in the midst of turmoil, and witness His miraculous intervention in our lives and the world around us.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of prayer and the assurance that You hear and answer my cries for help. Teach me to pray with faith and persistence, trusting in Your power to intervene in my life and circumstances. May I never underestimate the power of prayer to bring about Your purposes and glorify Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.