Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Devotional For October 9, 2023

Encouragement

Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,
‭‭II Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭11

If you knew Jesus would return today, would you do anything differently? Peter’s words challenge us to be ready for His coming.

He points out that all things in this world will one day be dissolved or pass away. In light of this reality, Peter offers a clear directive: we are called to live in “holy conduct and godliness.” What does this mean for us in our daily lives?

Living in holy conduct means striving for a life of moral integrity and purity. It involves making choices that align with God’s values and principles. It means treating others with kindness, honesty, and respect. It means seeking to live a life that honors God in all aspects.

Living in godliness entails nurturing a deep and meaningful relationship with God. It means seeking to know Him more through prayer, studying His Word, and spending time in His presence. It means imitating the character of Christ, growing in love, compassion, and humility.

Are you living in holy conduct and godliness? Are you allowing our faith to transform your daily actions and decisions?

Remember that the choices we make today have a lasting impact. The pursuit of holiness and godliness is not about perfection but about progress.

Pray

Lord, help me be mindful of how temporary this world is and the importance of holy conduct and godliness. Guide me in my daily life, empowering me to live in a way that reflects Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 8, 2023

Encouragement

And at midnight a cry was heard: “Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25‬:‭6‬

The parable of the ten virgins found in Matthew 25:1-13 is a powerful illustration of the need for readiness and vigilance in our walk with the Lord. In this verse, we see the moment when a cry is heard, announcing the arrival of the bridegroom. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being spiritually prepared for the Rapture.

In this parable, the cry that awakens the virgins symbolizes the moment that Jesus comes. Just as the virgins needed to be prepared with oil in their lamps, we are called to be spiritually prepared for the coming of our Bridegroom, Jesus.

Here are some important lessons we can draw from this verse:

  1. The cry came at an unexpected time—midnight. It serves as a reminder that we do not know the day or hour of Christ’s return. Thus, we must always be ready to meet Him.
  2. The virgins who were prepared with oil in their lamps were able to go out and meet the bridegroom. Likewise, we must be spiritually prepared through faith in Christ, living in a manner that reflects His teachings.
  3. When the cry is heard, the virgins go out to meet the bridegroom. In the same way, we should eagerly anticipate Christ’s return and be prepared to respond to His call.
  4. Just as the virgins had to stay awake and vigilant, we are called to watch for signs of Christ’s return and to live our lives in a manner that honors Him.
  • Are you spiritually prepared, filled with the oil of faith and righteousness?
  • Are you watching for the signs of His return?
  • Are you living in a way that honors Him in all aspects of your life?

Pray

Lord, thank You for the reminder to be spiritually prepared for Your return. Help me to live in readiness and watchfulness. Let my faith and actions reflect my expectation of Your return. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 7, 2023

Encouragement

A man’s steps are of the Lord; How then can a man understand his own way?
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭20‬:‭24‬

This proverb reminds us that our steps are ultimately directed by the Lord, and His divine plan often surpasses our own understanding.

It reminds us that God is the ultimate guide of our lives. Our human nature often leads us to make plans, set goals, and try to understand every detail of our path. While planning is important, we must always remember that God’s wisdom and sovereignty far exceeds our own. He knows the best way for us, even when we can’t understand it.

It’s a challenge to relinquish control and trust in God’s guidance, especially when we face uncertainty or difficulty. However, we are encouraged to release our grip on our own understanding and lean on God’s wisdom and providence. It’s an invitation to place our trust in the One who knows the end from the beginning.

Pray

    Lord, I acknowledge that my steps are ultimately directed by You. Help me to trust in Your guidance and sovereignty, even when I can’t comprehend the path before me. Grant me the wisdom to seek Your will in all that I do, knowing that Your plan is far greater than my own. In Jesus’ name, amen.