Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

May 28, 2023

Encouragement

But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; Let those also who love Your name Be joyful in You.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭5‬:‭11‬

This verse invites us to be glad and sing for joy. The joy we find in God is not based on our circumstances but on the unchanging nature of our heavenly Father. It is a joy that flows from knowing that we are loved, protected, and cared for by the Creator of the universe. It is a joy that springs forth from a deep relationship with Him.

When we trust in God, He spreads His protection over us. He becomes our shield and fortress, guarding us from the storms of life and shielding us from the schemes of the enemy. In His presence, we find refuge from the pressures of this world, the burdens of our hearts, and the attacks on our faith. We can rest assured that God’s protection is all-encompassing and unwavering.

As we experience God’s loving protection, our response is one of rejoicing. We rejoice not only in the blessings He bestows upon us but also in His very presence. Our joy is rooted in the truth of who God is and what He has done for us. It is a joy that fills our hearts with gratitude and praise. It is a joy that testifies of His faithfulness and goodness.

Choose to trust in God, knowing that He is your safe haven in every season of life. As you abide in His presence, trust in His unwavering protection and allow His love to be your source of strength and hope.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for being my refuge and stronghold in times of trouble. Help me to truly understand the depth of Your unfailing love and the security I have in Your presence. Fill my heart with gladness and joy as I dwell in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 27, 2023

Encouragement

Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!
‭‭Romans‬ ‭11‬:‭33‬

The apostle Paul expresses the awesome wonder of the wisdom and knowledge of God. He is completely amazed at the immeasurable greatness and unfathomable depths of God’s wisdom.

As humans, we so often try to seek answers to the questions that arise in our lives. We desire to understand the world surrounding us and long for a sense of certainty. Yet, when we encounter the wisdom of God, we are humbled by its vastness and realize that our minds cannot fully grasp the depths of His ways.

When we are faced with situations that seem confusing, we can find encouragement in the fact that our Heavenly Father sees the big picture. We can trust that God’s wisdom is working, guiding and directing us according to His perfect plan.

Instead of trying to comprehend every detail, seek to trust and surrender to the wisdom of God. When we acknowledge our limitations and rely on His wisdom, we can experience the peace that surpasses all understanding.

In order to experience the incomprehensible wisdom of God you must surrender your desire for control and seek His guidance in every area of our lives.

Pray

Lord, I stand in awe of Your immeasurable wisdom. Help me to trust in Your perfect judgments, even when I cannot fully comprehend them. Give me humility to surrender my desire for control and to rely on Your wisdom in every aspect of my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 26, 2023

Encouragement

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬

Light is a powerful symbol used throughout the Bible. It represents God’s presence and guidance. As believers, we are called to be light-bearers in a world full of darkness. Our lives should illuminate the path for others to find their way to God.

It’s deeply important to know that our light is not meant to draw attention to ourselves but to point others toward Jesus. When people witness our good works, kindness, and gentleness, they should be compelled to glorify God and experience His love for themselves.

Letting our light shine doesn’t require getting attention from others. It’s found in our willingness to lend a listening ear, offer a helping hand, or simply show compassion to those who are in need. It’s seen in our character in which we conduct ourselves in public.

Shining our light before others also means standing up for truth and righteousness. It means living counter-culturally, resisting the temptations that go against God’s Word. It means embracing forgiveness, extending grace, and seeking reconciliation in a world filled with evil.

We need to remember that it’s not our light that shines; it’s the light of Jesus Christ. We shine like Jesus because He is the source of light.

Commit today to live as a reflection of God’s love and goodness. Does your life bear witness to the power of Christ, drawing others closer to Him?

Pray

Lord, thank You for calling me to be a light in this world. Help me to shine brightly, reflecting Your love and goodness in all that I do. Fill me with Your love and grace so I can show compassion toward others. In Jesus’ name, amen.