Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Devotional For July 9, 2023

Encouragement

The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭17‬-‭18‬

In Psalm 34, David expresses his heart in praise and gratitude to the Lord. As he prayerfully considers his experiences of difficulties and deliverances, he shares a profound discovery about the character and love of God. Sometimes it is in the midst of suffering that we experience God in a profound way.

Life will often leave us feeling overwhelmed and burdened. It is in those moments that we are encouraged to cry out to the Lord, for He hears our prayers and delivers us from all our troubles. As the righteous cry out to Him, we can be certain that God hears us and is working on our behalf.

The way God works on our behalf may not always be what we expect, but we can trust that God’s faithfulness and power are at work. He is our source of help and rescue in every situation.

Verse 18 reveals to us that the Lord draws near to those who have a broken heart. He is actively present in our difficulties. When our spirit is crushed and we feel the weight of suffering, God is near. His love and grace bring us hope and peace.

God is always present in our pain. He cares for us and is always aware of what bothers us. In our brokenness, we can find hope in the fact that the Lord sees, understands, and walks alongside us in our journey toward healing and restoration.

Are you burdened with troubles or suffering a broken heart? Just know that the Lord is near. He hears your prayers and is working on your behalf. Trust in His love and rest in His presence.

Pray

Lord, thank You for hearing my prayers and caring for what burdens me. I cry out to You, knowing that You know my troubles will deliver me. Help me to be humble and restore my heart with joy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Devotional For July 8, 2023

Encouragement

As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭30‬

Take a moment and really take this verse in. There is much power and truth to this verse. Read it about three times and read it slowly.

In Psalm 18, King David is pouring his heart out to God for His faithfulness and deliverance. Specifically I n verse 30, David proclaims a powerful truth about God: His way is perfect and His Word is proven.

God’s way is perfect. He orchestrates every detail and guides us according to His sovereign plan. Even in situations where we may not fully understand or see the purpose, we can trust that God’s way is always perfect. He sees the bigger picture and His ways lead to ultimate good.

Not only is God’s way perfect, but His Word is proven. Throughout history, the Scriptures have stood the test of time and have been proven reliable and trustworthy. The promises, principles, and teachings found in the Word of God provide guidance, wisdom, and comfort in every season of life. As we align our lives with God’s Word, we can walk in confidence, knowing that His truth is unchanging and that His Word will not fail.

When you face times of uncertainty, trust that God’s plan is unfolding, even if you can’t see the outcome. Find peace and comfort in the power of His Word. When you place your trust in Him, you will experience His presence as protection and strength.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the perfect way in which You lead and guide me by Your Spirit. Help me to trust in Your wisdom, even when I don’t understand. Strengthen my faith as I rely on Your proven Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 7, 2023

Encouragement

For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother.
‭‭Philemon‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬

In the short but powerful letter of Philemon, the apostle Paul expresses his gratitude and joy for the love and faith demonstrated by Philemon, a beloved brother in Christ. Philemon’s love and generosity was a source of joy for Paul and a means of refreshing the hearts of fellow believers.

The world we live in pushes self-centeredness and personal gain. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to a different standard. We are called to love one another as Christ has loved us (John 13:34). Philemon’s actions exemplified the love of Christ and it encouraged the people around him.

When we demonstrate Christ-like love and extend kindness to others, we not only bless them but we aLao experience the joy that comes from obeying God’s commandments. Our acts of love become a testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel in our lives.

As believers, we are part of a larger family and our actions impact one another. When we demonstrate love, we contribute to the well-being and spiritual refreshment of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Take a moment today and reflect on your effectiveness Christ-like love. Are you seeking opportunities to demonstrate love and kindness to those around you? Are you refreshing the hearts of fellow believers?

May our love be a source of joy, bringing refreshment to the weary and pointing others to the love and grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for loving me and giving me eternal life. Fill my heart with joy that I may bless others with kindness. Give me an opportunity to express Christ-like love to someone who needs to be encouraged today.