Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

A Daily Devotional for July 1, 2023

Encouragement

I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬

In this sixth letter to the seven churches, Jesus addresses the church in Philadelphia. He commends them for their faithfulness and perseverance. Despite the challenges they faced, Jesus acknowledges their works and offers them an encouraging promise—a door of opportunity that no one can shut.

Just as Jesus knew the works of the church in Philadelphia, He knows the deeds of each one of us today. He also sees the challenges we encounter and the limitations we face. Yet, in the midst of it all, He promises an open door—a pathway to new possibilities, blessings, and growth.

The open door represents opportunities in various aspects of our lives—spiritually, relationally, and vocationally. It is an invitation to step into God’s divine plan and purpose for our lives. It may involve areas of ministry, personal growth, or unexpected blessings. Regardless of the specific nature of the open door, it signifies that God is at work, orchestrating circumstances for our benefit.

Notice that Jesus acknowledged their little strength. It is a reminder that our own human abilities and resources are insufficient to bring about significant change or accomplish God’s purposes. But, when we rely on Him, He empowers us beyond our limitations.

The key to walking through the open door lies in our faithfulness to God’s Word and our commitment to Jesus. As we remain in His truth and live out our faith, we position ourselves to receive His guidance, direction, and provision.

Sometimes it may be required of us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace unfamiliar territories. It may involve risks, challenges, or the need to rely completely on the leading of the Holy Spirit. Yet, we can be assured that as we step out in faith, we are not alone. God’s presence goes before us, equipping us for every step along the way.

Are you trusting in God’s love and perfect timing? Are you willing to walk through the door, even if it means leaving behind the familiar and taking a leap of faith? With God as your guide, you can rest assured that the path He establishes will lead to blessings and an abundant life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the open door of opportunity that You have set before me. Give me discernment to recognize the doors You open and the courage to walk through them. Give me wisdom and guidance as I navigate new paths and step into the unknown. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 30, 2023

Encouragement

Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬

Jesus addresses the fifth church which was located in Sardis. He urged them to wake up from their spiritual slumber. Today, this message resonates with believers all over the world, as we are often plagued with complacency.

Jesus begins by urging the church to remember their moment of salvation. Do you remember the overwhelming love and grace that engulfed you when you first encountered Jesus? Never let that memory fade into the background of your spiritual journey.

Jesus called the church at Sardis to hold fast to their faith and to repent. It means to cling to the truth of God’s Word and refuse to ever compromise because of worldly pressures. It means to remain faithful in our commitment to following Christ, even when the path seems difficult. Repentance involves turning away from anything that hinders our relationship with God. It is an act of humility, surrender, and willingness to change.

Jesus also issued a stern warning to the church. He reminds us that He is coming back, and His return will be unexpected. Everyone must be watchful and alert, living with a sense of urgency. We cannot be caught off guard being entangled in the distractions and cares of this world. Instead, we must prioritize our relationship with Christ, knowing that His return is imminent.

We are called to be the light of the world. We are not meant to blend in but to stand out. Let us heed the words of Jesus and awaken from our spiritual slumber.

Be watchful and diligent to seek the Lord. Shine bright in the midst of darkness. Let your faith and hope be placed in the promise that Jesus is coming soon.

Pray

Lord, awaken my heart from any spiritual slumber I may have fallen into. Help me to remember the power of my salvation and the work You have done in my life. Fill me with a sense of watchfulness and readiness for Your return. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 29, 2023

Encouragement

I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience; and as for your works, the last are more than the first.
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭2‬:‭19‬

Jesus’ fourth letter to the seven churches was addressed to Thyatira. In His message, He speaks directly to their works, love, service, faith, and patience. These qualities are essential in the life of every believer, and they demonstrate the power of Christ working in us.

Jesus begins by acknowledging their works. A Believer’s works are an outward expression of their faith and relationship with the Lord. The Lord not only sees what we do but also understands the motives behind what we do.

Next, He commended the church for their love. Our love for God compels us to love our neighbors as ourselves. When love controls our actions, our works become acts of kindness, pointing others to the love of Christ.

Thyatira was a church full of servants. In our service to the Lord, we demonstrate the character of Christ and bring glory to His name. There are so many opportunities to serve others. When we are servants for Christ, even the smallest act of kindness can have a profound impact on someone’s life.

Faith was another quality Jesus recognized. Thyatira had a deep trust in God’s promises. Our faith should lead us to trust and obey the word of God. It is through faith that mountains move, miracles happen, and lives are transformed.

Finally, Jesus commended the church’s patience. Obviously, they endured hardships and persevered in their trials. Patience is knowing that God is faithful and will fulfill His promises in due time. Patience produces hope.

Are your works driven by love, rooted in faith, and characterized by selfless service? Are you patiently enduring in the midst of challenges? Is your life a testimony of Jesus’ love and grace.

Pray

Lord, help me to have a heart filled with love, service, faith, and patience. Let my life be a testimony of the power of Your love. Show me the power of patience. In Jesus’ name, amen.