Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Devotional For October 24, 2023

Encouragement

Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭58‬

Jesus reveals to us a profound truth about His identity. He doesn’t just claim to be older than Abraham; He declares His divinity with the words “I AM.” This phrase harkens back to God’s revelation of Himself to Moses at the burning bush in Exodus 3:14. It’s a declaration of eternality and deity.

As we reflect on this truth, we are reminded of the timeless nature of Christ, the “I AM.” He existed before Abraham, before time itself, and He continues to exist as the eternal God.

In our own lives, we often face situations that seem insurmountable, challenges that test our faith, and uncertainties that weigh heavily on our hearts. In those moments, we can find peace in knowing that the great “I AM” is with us. Jesus, who is before all things, is by our side, offering His guidance, comfort, and strength.

When we face our doubt and fears, we can trust in Jesus to give us what we need to endure all things. He is unchanging and eternal.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the assurance of Your presence in my life. Grant me strength to trust in You, the great “I AM,” and to find refuge in Your everlasting love. I pray for wisdom to follow Your teachings and the courage to live out Your example in my daily walk. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 23, 2023

Encouragement

Say to those who are fearful-hearted, “Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, With the recompense of God; He will come and save you.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭35‬:‭4‬

The world can be a frightful place, and it’s easy to become “fearful-hearted.” But in Isaiah 35:4, we are reminded of a powerful message of hope and reassurance from God.

First, we are encouraged to “be strong” and not to give in to fear. This strength doesn’t come from our own abilities, but from the divine source of strength – God Himself. It is a call to trust in His power and promises.

The verse goes on to proclaim that God will come with vengeance and recompense. This is a reminder that justice ultimately belongs to Him, and He will set things right. The injustices we see in the world will not go unnoticed or unpunished.

Most importantly, the verse concludes with the beautiful promise that the Lord will come and save us. No matter how dire our circumstances may appear, God is our ultimate savior. He is with us in our trials, and His salvation is our ultimate hope.

Let this verse be a source of strength and a reminder of God’s unwavering love and commitment to His people. We can take refuge in His promise to save us, knowing that we are never alone in our journey. So, be strong, do not fear, and trust in the God who is our Savior and Redeemer.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being my Savior and Redeemer. Give me strength and courage to overcome any fear I may face today. I trust Your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 22, 2023

Encouragement

“Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.”
‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭50‬

Salt is a simple and common substance, and in today’s verse it serves as a powerful metaphor reminding us of our role as a follower of Christ. Jesus speaks on the significance of preserving our faith and living in harmony with others.

Jesus acknowledged the goodness and usefulness of salt. Salt was a precious commodity in the ancient world, used not only to preserve food but also to enhance its flavor. As followers of Christ, we are called to bring a positive influence to the people around us. Our faith, like salt, should be a force for good.

However, Jesus warned against losing our flavor. Just as salt, when it loses its taste, becomes worthless, so too does our faith when it loses its vitality. We must continually nurture our relationship with God, guard against complacency, and ensure that our faith remains fresh and impactful.

Jesus goes on to encourage us to “have salt in yourselves.” This means that our faith and character should be seasoned with the values and teachings of Christ. It’s not enough to merely carry the label of a Christian; we must live out the principles of love, grace, humility, and compassion.

The verse concludes with the call to “have peace with one another.” Just as salt enhances the flavor of food, our Christ-like lives should bring harmony and peace to our relationships. Our faith should manifest as acts of love, forgiveness, and a willingness to resolve conflicts.

Does your faith have a positive influence on others?

Pray

Lord, I ask you to strengthen my faith so that I live Christ-like. Let my faith bring encouragement to those who are close to me. Help me to be seasoned with Your presence so that I bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.