Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For May 5, 2024

If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭11

Peter exhorts believers to use their spiritual gifts and abilities for the glory of God, recognizing that all they do should ultimately point back to Him. Peter’s words remind us that every gift, talent, and ability we possess is ultimately from God and should be used to glorify Him.

As followers of Christ, we are called to be faithful stewards of the grace and gifts that God has entrusted to us. This requires humility, obedience, and a willingness to step out in faith, trusting that God will use us for His purposes. Whether our gifts are big or small, we can make a difference in the lives of others when we offer them up to God in service.

Let us be intentional about using our gifts and abilities for the glory of God and the benefit of others. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or sharing the hope of the gospel, may everything we do reflect the love and grace of Jesus Christ. And as we faithfully steward God’s gifts, may He be glorified in all things.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gifts and abilities You have given me. Help me to use them faithfully for Your glory and the benefit of others. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I may speak and minister in accordance with Your will and for Your purposes. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For May 4, 2024

Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬

Paul encouraged the Corinthian believers—and us—to remain strong in their faith, despite the challenges and trials they face. He reminded them that, despite the outward struggles, inward renewal is continually taking place through the work of the Holy Spirit.

As followers of Christ, our lives are marked by a continual process of renewal and transformation. While our physical bodies may experience decay and weakness, our inner being is being renewed day by day through the power of the Holy Spirit. This inner renewal shapes us into the image of Christ and equips us to live faithfully for Him.

This process of renewal is ongoing and lifelong. Each day presents new opportunities for growth, learning, and spiritual maturity. As we walk with Christ and abide in Him, He continually renews our minds, strengthens our faith, and empowers us to overcome the challenges and obstacles that we face.

In the midst of our trials and difficulties, let us not lose heart. Instead, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author, and perfecter of our faith, trusting that He is continually at work within us, bringing about renewal and transformation. May we embrace each new day as an opportunity to grow closer to God and become more like Him in every area of our lives.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the promise of renewal and transformation that we find in Your Word. Help me to embrace this truth and live in the reality of Your ongoing work in my life. Fill me afresh with Your Spirit each day, that I may be continually renewed in my mind, heart, and spirit. Give me the strength and perseverance to press on, even in the face of challenges and trials. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For May 3, 2024

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬

Jesus contrasts the evil and destructive intentions of the devil with His own purpose—to bring abundant and eternal life to all who believe in Him.

Jesus offers us more than just existence; He offers us abundant life—a life marked by joy, purpose, and peace. However, the enemy tries to steal, kill, and destroy this abundant life by tempting us with sin and doubt. He seeks to rob us of the joy, purpose and peace that come from knowing and walking with Christ.

Living abundantly in Christ means actively pursuing the purposes and plans that He has for our lives. It involves using our gifts, talents, and resources to glorify God and bless others. Whether it’s serving in ministry, sharing the gospel with others, or simply showing love and kindness to those around us, every act of obedience and faithfulness contributes to the abundant life that Jesus offers.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the abundant life that only comes from You. Help me to fully embrace this life by surrendering myself to You completely and following You wholeheartedly. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I may experience the joy, peace, and purpose that come from walking with You. Guide me in living out Your purposes for my life, and empower me to be a light in the darkness, pointing others to the abundant life found only in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.