Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For January 6, 2024

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭10‬

In 1 Corinthians 15, the apostle Paul reflects on the power of God’s grace in his life. Despite his past persecutions on the Church, Paul acknowledges that it is only by God’s grace that he is who he is. He attributes his labor and achievements to the grace of God working within him.

It is by God’s grace that we are who we are. We need to realize that our abilities, achievements, and even our very existence are granted by God’s grace. This acknowledgment should motivate us to labor and live abundantly, not in our strength alone but empowered by God’s grace.

Whether in our relationships, work, or personal growth, we need to recognize that any success or progress is a manifestation of God’s grace at work in and through us. As we labor, may it be a response to the grace that has not been in vain.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your incredible grace that has shaped me. Help me to be fully aware that it is by Your grace that I am who I am today. Let my actions be a testimony to Your transformative power. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For January 5, 2024

Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭11‬:‭1

One of Jesus’ disciples observed Him praying and recognized the profound connection between Jesus and His heavenly Father. The disciple was moved to ask Jesus to teach them how to pray. This request leads to the powerful teaching of the Lord’s Prayer, emphasizing the importance and depth of communion with God.

Is your plea to learn how to pray? Prayer is a vital aspect of our relationship with God, providing a channel for communication, intimacy, and guidance. Jesus’ response to the disciples’ request reveals the significance of a heartfelt and purposeful prayer life.

Just as the disciples sought to learn from Jesus, may we seek His guidance in our prayer life. Let our prayers be characterized by sincere faith and a desire to align our hearts with God’s will. Through prayer, we open the door to a deeper connection and understanding with our Heavenly Father.

Pray

Lord, teach me to pray with faith and purpose. Let my prayers be a reflection of my desire to commune with You and align my heart with Your will. Help me to approach prayer with faith, knowing that You hear and respond. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For January 4, 2024

Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭29‬

In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul addresses the Ephesian believers, urging them to live in a manner worthy of their calling in Christ. This verse specifically emphasizes the power of our words. Paul encourages believers to speak words that build up and impart grace, avoiding corrupt or harmful speech.

We are urged to be mindful of the impact of our words. Paul challenges us to consider the impact our speech has on others. Rather than letting negative or harmful words proceed from our mouths, let our communication be characterized by goodness, uplifting others and imparting grace.

Let’s intentionally use our words to encourage, inspire, and build up those around us. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, may our speech reflect the love and grace of Christ. As we choose words that edify, we contribute to an environment of positivity and growth.

Pray

Lord, I seek Your guidance in my words. Help me to choose language that builds up and imparts grace to those around me. Let my speech be a source of encouragement and positivity, reflecting Your love and kindness. Grant me wisdom to use my words for the edification of others. In Jesus’ name, amen.