Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For December 3, 2024

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭15‬

Jesus warns us about false prophets who may appear outwardly righteous but harbor deceit within. It’s a reminder to be discerning in our spiritual journey, recognizing that not everyone who claims to speak for God truly does.

A false can easily be identified. They will not preach repentance or about sin. They will preach prosperity and worldly gain. They will not claim that Jesus is the only way to the Father. 

False prophets may deceive with eloquence. Stay rooted in the Word of God and seek discernment. Prayerfully seek guidance from the Holy Spirit to discern truth and guard your heart against misleading influences.

Pray

Lord, give me discernment to identify false teachings and false prophets. Help me to stay grounded in Your Word, seeking Your guidance through the Holy Spirit. Protect me from deceptive influences. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For December 2, 2024

For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror;
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭23‬

Just as we see our reflection in a mirror, the Bible reflects the truth about our lives. As we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, the Holy Spirit gives us understanding of His will.

Simply hearing the Word is not enough; true transformation comes from applying its principles in our daily lives. Hence, the reason why we are to listen to the Holy Spirit of God. 

As we reflect on the truths and principles of the Bible, we are led to live a life of liberty and blessing. The Word of God serves as a mirror and allows us to examine our actions, thoughts, and attitudes. 

Choose one aspect from your reflection to actively work on throughout the day. Whether it’s showing more love, practicing patience, or seeking forgiveness, strive to live out God’s Word.

Pray

Lord, thank you for the mirror of your Word that guides and shapes my life. Help me not just to hear, but be a doer of your commands. Give me true freedom in living according to your perfect law. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotional For December 1, 2024

For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬

The author of Hebrews urges us to “consider Him.” To consider means to think deeply, to reflect upon, and to meditate. So, let us consider Jesus, the ultimate example of endurance and faith.

Jesus endured unimaginable hostility during His earthly ministry. He was ridiculed, mocked, and betrayed by those He came to save. He faced persecution, false accusations, and even death on a cross. Yet, He endured it all with faith in His Father’s plan.

When we face our own trials and challenges, we can find encouragement in Jesus’ example. His endurance teaches us that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, we can press on in faith, knowing that He is with us.

The verse also warns us against becoming weary and discouraged in our souls. Weariness can cause us to lose heart and give up. But by fixing our focus on Jesus, we can find renewed strength and hope.

When we focus solely on our problems and hardships, they can seem overwhelming. But when we shift our focus to Jesus, our problems are put into proper perspective. He is greater than any challenge we face. (Thank You, Jesus!)

So, as we face life’s ups and downs, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. When we consider His endurance in the face of hostility, we find the inspiration to endure our own trials with faith and perseverance.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the example of endurance and strength to keep going. No matter the challenges that come my way I will remember focus more on You and less on my troubles. Help me to endure and overcome every challenge and trial. In Jesus’ name, amen.