Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Devotional For August 26, 2023

Encouragement

Then, when Mary came where Jesus was, and saw Him, she fell down at His feet, saying to Him, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.”
‭‭John‬ ‭11‬:‭32‬

In John 11:32, we witness a profound moment of vulnerability and raw emotion as Mary, grieving the loss of her brother Lazarus, falls at the feet of Jesus. Her words echo the questions that can sometimes fill our hearts in times of pain and confusion.

Mary’s journey to Jesus was undoubtedly filled with a mix of emotions—grief, hope, and perhaps even a tinge of disappointment. She knew that if Jesus had been present, her brother might have been spared from death. In her sorrow, Mary’s response is an authentic pouring out of her heart.

Mary’s action of falling at Jesus’ feet illustrates the beautiful truth that our Savior is a safe place for our pain. He invites us to bring our questions, doubts, and grief to Him. He understands the depth of our emotions and invites us to lay them at His feet.

Mary’s words reveal her honest conversation with Jesus. God desires us to approach Him with our unfiltered thoughts and emotions. When we express our heartache, we create space for God to respond with comfort, understanding, and the assurance of His presence.

At the feet of Jesus, we learn the power of surrender. Mary’s words, while expressing her desire for a different outcome, also demonstrate her willingness to place her trust in Jesus’ sovereignty. Her posture teaches us to surrender our control and entrust our circumstances to Him.

Reflect on moments when you’ve felt like Mary—overwhelmed by grief, confusion, or disappointment. How can you cultivate an authentic dialogue with Jesus in those moments? Consider how falling at His feet can be an act of surrender and an invitation for His comfort.

Pray

Lord, in times of grief and confusion, I thank You for being a safe place for my pain. Help me to bring my raw emotions to You, knowing that You understand and care for my heart. Teach me to surrender my control and trust in Your sovereignty, even when circumstances are difficult. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For August 25, 2023

Encouragement

Even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭10‬

The imagery of God’s sovereign hand is woven throughout the pages of Scripture, depicting His guidance, protection, and loving care for His children. In Psalm 139:10, we glimpse the profound truth that wherever we go, the hand of God leads us and holds us securely.

Imagine walking in the dark through unfamiliar terrain. The assurance that “Your hand shall lead me” brings a sense of comfort. God’s hand is not just a hopeful presence; it’s a force that guides us on the paths He has already ordained for us.

The imagery of God’s right hand holding us speaks of His strength. It’s a reminder that we are not left to navigate through life’s journey alone. His grip is firm and capable of carrying us through even the most difficult circumstances.

God’s hand isn’t distant; it’s close and personal. When we take His hand, we experience an intimate connection with our Creator. His touch offers comfort, reassurance, and the sense that we are known and loved beyond measure.

There are moments in our life when things feel uncertain. It’s in these times that we can hold onto the promise that God’s hand is leading and upholding us. His presence provides us with the strength and courage to face whatever lies ahead that we cannot see.

Consider areas in your life where you need to trust His leading more fully. Ask God to lead you with His sovereign hand and He will guide you to where you need to be.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your guiding and protecting hand. I am grateful that Your hand leads me and holds me securely. In times of uncertainty, help me to trust Your grip and find comfort in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For August 24, 2023

Encouragement

God reigns over the nations; God sits on His holy throne.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭47‬:‭8‬

As we meditate on this verse, we are reminded of the greatness of our God and the assurance that He is in control. God sovereignly rules over all the nations of the earth from His holy throne.

“God reigns over the nations.” This declaration serves as a comforting reminder in a world filled with uncertainty. God’s reign remains constant and unchanging. His authority extends beyond borders, cultures, and circumstances.

The image of God sitting on His holy throne evokes a sense of majesty and power. It reminds us that His rule is not only over physical realms but also extends into the spiritual realm. His throne represents a place of divine justice, wisdom, and grace.

In times of global turmoil, knowing that God reigns can bring peace to our hearts. His sovereignty assures us that He is aware of every situation and is working all things according to His perfect plan. We can trust in His goodness and providence.

As we think about this verse, our hearts are drawn to worship. The truth of God’s sovereignty invites us to praise Him for His power and authority. It encourages us to surrender our concerns to Him and find rest in His capable hands.

Are there areas in your life where you need to trust His rule more fully? Thank God that He reigns over all nations and situations?

Pray

Lord, I am grateful that You reign over the nations and sit on Your holy throne. I find comfort in Your sovereignty. Help me to trust Your perfect plan and surrender my worries to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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