Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For December 30, 2023

For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us;
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭9‬:‭24‬

In the Old Testament, the high priest would enter the earthly holy of holies to offer a sacrifice for the sins of the people. However, the author of Hebrews reveals a greater reality — Jesus, our eternal High Priest, has entered heaven itself on our behalf.

This verse points to the continuous work of Christ for us. He stands before the Father, representing us, and making a way for our forgiveness and reconciliation. Our Savior doesn’t enter an earthly sanctuary but the heavenly realm, securing an everlasting redemption.

We can find much comfort in the truth that Jesus is actively interceding for us in the heavenly places. His work on our behalf is not confined to a temporal space but is eternal and effective.

Today’s meditation of Scripture gives us assurance that Christ is working on our behalf. When we face a challenge or trial, just know that Jesus is there to give us victory. Don’t let the weight of this world beat you down. Keep your eyes focussed on the eternal victory.

Pray

Lord, thank You for working on my behalf. My trust is in You for all things to work out for Your glory. Give me hope and assurance today to keep my eyes looking toward heaven. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For December 29, 2023

I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake; And I will not remember your sins.
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭25‬

In the words of Isaiah, God reveals His divine nature as a forgiving and merciful God. God’s forgiveness is not motivated by our works or efforts but stems from His character. God forgives because that’s who He is.

He chooses to blot out our sins, not for our sake, but for His own. His mercy and grace are expressions of His love and faithfulness. He forgives because He loves us.

As we reflect on this truth, let us find assurance and confidence that our sins are forgiven. God not only forgives but chooses not to remember our sins. In this divine forgetfulness, we find freedom from guilt and shame.

Today, let us embrace the forgiveness offered by our Heavenly Father. As we receive His mercy, may it inspire gratitude and a desire to live according to His will. Let the awareness of His forgiveness shape our identity, allowing us to walk in the light of His love and grace.

Pray

Lord, thank You for forgiving my sins and removing the shame and guilt that binds me in the flesh. Help me to forget the past and move forward in pleasing You. Give me freedom that only comes from You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For December 28, 2023

Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,
‭‭II Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬

The apostle Paul’s prayer in 2 Thessalonians 1:11 expresses a deep desire that God would count us worthy of the divine calling placed upon our lives.

This prayer unveils a profound truth — that our calling is not a random occurrence, but a purposeful design crafted by God Himself. As we navigate the twists and turns of life, Paul’s prayer encourages us to seek worthiness in our response to this divine calling.

God’s goodness plays a pivotal role in this journey. It is His goodness that propels us forward, guiding us along the path of righteousness. The fulfillment of God’s good pleasure is closely connected to the work of faith. As we exercise faith in Him, His power is unleashed, enabling us to live out the calling with strength and purpose.

Today, let us embrace this prayer as our own, seeking worthiness in our response to God’s calling. May His goodness guide our steps, and may the work of faith in our lives be accompanied by His mighty power. As we align ourselves with His purpose, we discover the true fulfillment that comes from living out our calling with God’s divine strength.

Pray

Lord, help me to embrace Your goodness in my life. Thank You for loving me and guiding me by Your power. Give me wisdom to fully understand the plans You have for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.