Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Spirit Led

Encouragement

One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.” So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.
Acts 13:2-3

Acts 13:1-3 describes a significant moment in the early Christian church when the Holy Spirit set apart Paul and Barnabas for a special work. As they were worshipping and fasting, the Holy Spirit spoke to the church leaders and called them to separate these two men for the task of spreading the gospel to the Gentiles.

This passage reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s direction and guidance in our lives. Just as the church leaders were sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit, we too should be attentive to God’s voice and open to His leading.

God has a plan and a purpose for each of us, and it is only by seeking His guidance that we can fulfill that purpose. When we take time to worship, fast, and pray, we create space to hear from God and discern His will for our lives.

Let us follow the example of the early church and be intentional about seeking God’s direction in all that we do. As we do so, we can trust that He will lead us on the path of righteousness and use us to accomplish His purposes.

Pray

Lord, I want to be led by Your Spirit and be obedient to Your commands. Help me to discern Your voice. Help me to rid myself of any distractions that are keeping me from following You.

Unshakable Faith

Encouragement

For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.
II Timothy 1:12

Today’s verse serves as a powerful reminder that our faith in God is unshakable, and that he is always with us, even in the midst of our suffering.

The apostle Paul wrote these words while he was imprisoned for his faith, facing persecution and the very real possibility of death. Despite his circumstances, Paul remained steadfast in his faith and trusted in God’s power to protect him and the gospel message that he had dedicated his life to spreading.

As Christians, we will face challenges and difficulties that will test our faith. However, we can take comfort in knowing that our faith is rooted in Christ who is infinitely powerful and trustworthy. When we face trials, we can turn to Him for strength and guidance, knowing that He is able to protect us and keep us safe.

In times of struggle, let us hold fast to these words in 2 Timothy 1:12, trusting in God’s power and love to see us through. May we find comfort in knowing that He is with us always, guarding our faith and guiding us on our journey towards eternal life.

Pray

Lord, You are all-knowing and I can trust that You know my every concern. Give me strength to face today with bold faith. I know You are with me right now.

Joy In The Midst Of Pain

Encouragement

For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭30:5‬

Psalm 30:5 is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and steadfast love towards us, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. The psalmist acknowledges that weeping may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning.

This verse speaks to the reality that life is full of ups and downs. There will be times when we experience pain, loss, and heartache. But in those moments, we can take comfort in the fact that God is with us and that he will bring us through to the other side.

God’s anger towards our sin is real, but it is also temporary. His grace and favor towards us are eternal. No matter what we have done or what we are going through, God’s love for us remains constant.

As we face the trials of life, we can trust that God is working all things together for our good. We may not always understand what he is doing or why, but we can be sure that he is with us and that he will never leave us nor forsake us.

May we hold onto the promise of Psalm 30:5, and may we always remember that joy comes in the morning. Let us trust in God’s unfailing love and faithfulness, and may we find hope and peace in him, no matter what we may face.

Pray

Lord, I trust your mercy and grace will see me through today. Help me to enjoy what you have supplied me with and I will find peace in resting in Your presence.