Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Devotional For September 21, 2023

Encouragement

Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭4‬

It’s easy to become self-absorbed, focusing solely on our own needs and desires. However, in Philippians 2:4, the Apostle Paul reminds us of a higher calling – a calling to exemplify the selfless love of Christ.

The verse begins with the word “Let,” which implies a choice we must make. We have the choice to live self-centered lives or to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who displayed the ultimate act of selflessness on the cross. He looked beyond His own interests and willingly laid down His life for the salvation of humanity.

Paul encourages us not only to consider our own interests but also to actively seek the interests of others. This means taking the time to understand the needs and concerns of those around us. It means showing compassion, lending a helping hand, and being willing to sacrifice our own comfort for the well-being of others.

Selfless love is not always easy. It requires humility and a willingness to put others first. But when we choose to follow Christ’s example, we become instruments of His love and grace in the world. Our actions reflect the transformative power of the Gospel.

As you go about your day, ask yourself, “How can I actively seek the interests of others today?” It might be a simple act of kindness, a listening ear to a friend in need, or a sacrificial gesture. Remember that in selfless love, we find the true essence of Christianity, and we become vessels through which God’s love can shine brightly.

Pray

Lord, help me to live out Philippians 2:4 today. Teach me to be selfless. Help me to look beyond my own interests and actively seek the interests of others, becoming instruments of Your love and grace in the world. In Jesus’ name, amen

Devotional For September 20, 2023

Encouragement

And He was casting out a demon, and it was mute. So it was, when the demon had gone out, that the mute spoke; and the multitudes marveled.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭11‬:‭14‬

In Luke 11:14, we encounter a powerful moment in the ministry of Jesus. He was in the midst of a crowd, and there was a man who had been unable to speak. But Jesus, in His divine authority, cast out the demon afflicting this man, and the result was astonishing—the mute man spoke, and the crowd was amazed.

This encounter reveals several profound truths about the power of God’s kingdom at work in our lives.

Just as the demon had bound the man’s ability to speak, there may be areas in our lives where we feel bound or silenced—whether it’s by fear, doubt, guilt, or any other form of oppression. The good news is that through Christ, we can find freedom from these chains.

Notice that Jesus didn’t use an elaborate ritual or a formula to free the man. He simply spoke with authority, and the demon had to obey. In our own lives, we can rely on the authority of Jesus to break the strongholds that hold us back.

The man who had been mute gained a voice and the ability to communicate. When we encounter Jesus, we too can experience transformation and restoration. He can heal our brokenness, mend our wounds, and give us a voice to declare His goodness.

The crowd’s reaction was one of amazement. When we witness the power of God at work, it should evoke wonder and amazement in us as well. These moments become opportunities for us to share our faith and testify to the incredible works of Jesus in our lives.

Remember that the same power that drove out the demon and restored the mute man is available to us today through our faith in Jesus Christ. Whatever silence or bondage you may be experiencing, know that Christ can bring freedom, healing, and transformation.

Pray

Lord, thank you for the power of your kingdom at work in my life. Just as you freed the mute man and amazed the crowd, I pray for your transformative power to break any bondage in my life. Help me to trust in your authority and be a witness to your incredible works. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 19, 2023

Encouragement

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭23‬-‭24‬

It can be easy to view our work, whether it be our careers, at home, or in our communities, as mere obligations. However, the words of Paul call us to a higher perspective, reminding us that every endeavor can be an act of worship when done with the right heart.

The Apostle Paul begins by encouraging us to do whatever we do “heartily.” In other words, we are called to approach our tasks with passion, enthusiasm, and dedication. Whether it’s our job, our chores, or our volunteer work, we should do it with all our heart, as if we’re doing it for the Lord Himself.

When we work, serve, or create, we’re not merely doing it for our bosses, our families, or society’s approval. We are doing it as an offering to the Lord. This transforms the mundane into the sacred.

These verses remind us that our ultimate audience is not human beings. While we may seek approval and recognition from others, our primary focus should be on pleasing the Lord. When we work with this mindset, the fear of human criticism or favoritism fades away.

Here’s the beautiful promise – when we work as unto the Lord, we will receive the reward of the inheritance. Our labor is not in vain. God sees our efforts, and in His time and according to His plan, He will reward us. This reward isn’t just in the here and now but extends into eternity.

Ultimately, our work is an act of service to Christ Himself. Every task, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, becomes an opportunity to express our love and devotion to our Savior. When we serve others, we are, in essence, serving the Lord.

So, today, as you face your responsibilities and tasks, remember that your work matters to God. It is an act of worship, an offering of love, and a means to serve the Jesus Christ. Approach your work heartily, with dedication, and with the knowledge that you are working for an eternal reward.

Pray

Lord, help me to approach my daily tasks with dedication and enthusiasm, knowing that I am working as unto You. Let my work be an act of worship and service to You, and help me find joy in knowing that my labor is not in vain. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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