Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Devotional For July 21, 2023

Encouragement

By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God,
‭‭I John‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬

John provides a clear distinguishing fact to recognizing the Spirit of God—the confession that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. It is important that we discern between the Spirit of God and false spirits.

The confession that Jesus Christ came in the flesh is at the heart of our Christian faith. It affirms the profound truth that Jesus took on human form to dwell among men. This essential belief distinguishes the Spirit of God from the spirits of the devil.

As believers, it is crucial to have discernment in our daily journey. There are various voices and influences grabbing our attention and claiming to be from God. John tells us to test the spirits (1 John 4:1) and consider their source.

The confession of Jesus Christ coming in the flesh speaks of God’s love and grace reaching out to humanity. It reveals Jesus as the Messiah and the only mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5). A false spirit will not glorify Jesus.

As we encounter various teachings and beliefs, let us hold fast to the truth of Jesus Christ coming in the flesh. Let us align our hearts and minds with the Spirit of God. We can grow in discernment through studying the Word of God and prayer.

Are you paying careful attention to what is grabbing your attention? Discern if it is the Spirit of God or a false spirit that is deceiving you.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for sending Jesus to be my mediator. Grant me discernment to recognize the Spirit of God in a world filled with various voices. Strengthen me to share the truth of Your love with others, that they too may come to know the salvation found in Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 20, 2023

Encouragement

holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬

In the letter to the Philippians, Paul encourages believers to hold fast to the word of life. This call reminds us that our lives should be lived with purpose and dedication.

The “word of life” that Paul refers to is the Gospel, the message of salvation and hope found in Jesus Christ. In a world full of despair and uncertainty, our faith, in Christ, should draw others towards the source of true life.

Being a light in the world is not always easy. Challenges, distractions, and the many temptations that surround us, dim our spiritual glow. The enemy seeks to make us think that our labor is in vain.

It is in these moments that Paul’s challenge becomes even more critical. To “hold fast” implies a firm grip, a strong commitment to the truth of the Gospel, and a deep devotion to Christ.

By holding fast to the word of life, we position ourselves with God’s purposes and find joy in knowing that our efforts are not in vain. Our lives take on eternal significance when we become faithful stewards of the Gospel, spreading its message through both words and actions.

Examine yourself to see if you are truly holding fast to the word of life. Are you living in a way that reflects the light of Christ? Are your actions, attitudes, and words drawing others closer to Jesus?

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your word, which brings life and hope into my soul. Help me to hold fast to the Gospel, to remain committed in my faith. Make my life to be a testimony to your goodness and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 19, 2023

Encouragement

The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭29‬:‭25‬

This is a short but profound verse. It warns us of the danger of allowing the fear of others to control our lives and the importance of placing our trust in God.

Fear is a powerful force that can control our decision-making process and prevent us from experiencing the abundant life that God has planned for us. When we worry about what others think or say about us, we become trapped in a snare of insecurity and self-doubt. The fear of man will paralyze us and prevent us from stepping out in faith to pursue God’s calling on our lives.

However, God invites us to trust in Him. When we place our trust in God, we are assured of His faithfulness, His wisdom, and His protection. Trusting in the Lord means that we have an assurance that God is with us every step of the way.

Trusting in the Lord empowers us to live boldly and courageously. When we trust in God, we are kept safe in His loving arms, shielded from the damaging effects of fear.

Are you allowing the fear of man to control your life? Are you seeking the approval of others, rather than placing your trust in God?

Fully trusting God will remove all fear!

Pray

Lord, I place my full trust in You. I trust You will keep me safe and protected from all evil. Help me to resist the thoughts of fear and anxiety that keep me from living the abundant life you have planned for me.