Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

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.

Devotional For July 18, 2023

Encouragement

Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬

James reminds us that as believers, we are called to live in holiness. We are called to get rid of the sinful habits and behaviors that could hinder our spiritual growth. It requires a conscious decision to remove anything that separates us from God’s presence.

The word of God has the power to transform our lives from the inside out. When we apply ourselves to God’s word with humility and a teachable spirit, the word takes root in our hearts and produces righteousness. The word is not just informative; it is a living, active force that brings about spiritual change.

The word of God rescues us from the bondage of sin, and reconciles us with God. It guides us on the path of righteousness and leads us to eternal life. As we open our hearts to God’s word, we position ourselves to receive His grace and experience the power of His truth.

John 1:14 says, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” When you lay aside sinful things and embrace the word of God, you will experience the presence of God in a supernatural way.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your word that has transformed my life. Help me to lay aside anything that separates me from experiencing Your presence. Please forgive me of my sins. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 17, 2023

Encouragement

For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭6‬:‭17‬

Today’s verse presents a profound question that challenges every soul to consider the magnificence and sovereignty of our Lord.

“The great day of His wrath” describes the time of judgment when God’s righteousness will be fully revealed. It’s a day that the world has never witnessed before. This is a powerful reminder that no sin or injustice will go unnoticed or unpunished.

Then the question is posed, “who is able to stand?” It forces us to confront the reality of our human frailty and the weight of our sins. If we are honest, we realize that no one can withstand the fullness of God’s wrath on their own merits. Each of us has fallen short of God’s perfect standards, and we are in need of a Savior.

We discover a glorious answer to this question. We encounter the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, who alone is worthy and able to stand in the face of God’s judgment. He is the only one who has lived a sinless life, fulfilling the requirements of the Law and offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for our sins. Through His shed blood, we find forgiveness and redemption.

Jesus is our only hope in a world full of darkness. He brings light and offers salvation to all who turn to Him in faith. By His grace, we can face the day of judgment with confidence, knowing that we are united with Him who overcame sin and death.

Have you placed your faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior to give you eternal life?

Pray

Lord, thank You for sending Your Son Jesus Christ, the Lamb who was slain for my sins. Help me to comprehend the magnitude of His sacrifice and the hope it brings. Strengthen my faith, that I may stand firm in Your truth. In Jesus’ name, amen.