Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Love Never Fails

Encouragement

‘Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. ‘
I John 4:7

As Christians we are called to love others as we love ourselves. As difficult as this may be sometimes it is necessary for us to be obedient when it comes to this command. Remember, love never fails.

We are not commanded to love one another to earn the love of God, we love one another because we are loved by God. Because we have received that perfect love from God, we abide in it. Love conquers all and covers all.

It’s very important right now that we show the love of God to everyone, even those who try their best to cause evil in this world. John’s emphasis on love is powerful and has a great impact on others. John is saying when we abide in God’s love it will show by our love for one another.

People need to be shown the love of Jesus. When people around us act like the world they need to see and witness the love of God. And the only way they will experience Christ-like love is if we, who are children of God, show them love.

The world has enough evil in it but not enough love. Whatever you do today or whoever you come into contact with, make sure to shine the love of Jesus. Let the light and love of Jesus be so bright in our life that makes others curious.

Pray

Lord, I know that I am not the most loving person but I know Your love is powerful. Your love never fails so help me to love You more and give me the ability to love others the way You love.

Tell Them What God Has Done

Encouragement, Faith

‘However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you.” ‘
Mark 5:19

Have you every hesitated telling others about how you met the Lord? We should be quick to tell others about the great and wonderful things that God has done in our life.

The story of Mark 5:1-20 details a dramatic miracle of Jesus delivering a man of demons and casting them into a heard of swine. On that day two thousand demon possessed pigs squealed down the mountain and drowned into the sea.

The miracle angered the local pig farmers and Jesus was forced to leave. As Jesus got into the boat the man who was once possessed begged to go with Him but Jesus wouldn’t allow it. Instead Jesus instructed him to go home and tell his family and friends about his miraculous deliverance.

Later in chapter 6 Jesus returned and was gladly welcomed back. Because the man told everyone about the great things the Lord had done Jesus was able to perform other great miracles. There is power in sharing with others what the Lord has done for each of us. Never be ashamed to share what the Lord has done. You never know what kind of impact it could make.

Pray

Lord, put someone in my path today that I can share my story with them. Thank You for doing so many good things in my life. Help me to never be ashamed to speak of Your goodness.

He Came Home

Encouragement, Faith, Salvation

“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him.”
Luke‬ ‭15:20‬

The parable of the lost son spoken by Jesus is probably one of the most popular parables. It’s a story of a son who left home with his father’s inheritance and squandered it all in sinful living.

After he came to his senses and humbly went home to where he was received with open arms and lots of love. What a great redemptive story.

While this parable is loaded with truth about God’s grace and how He is our Heavenly Father and He is waiting for anyone to come to Him, there is something special here in this passage for us all to receive.

The picture that is presented in this verse is a welcoming Father who still wants a relationship with His child even though he has lived rebelliously. God never turns His back on His own. God will never reject someone that belongs to Him.

God loves you and will not let anything come between you and Him. You may turn your back to God, but He is still right where He once was.

After the lost son returned home, his father gave a big party for everyone to celebrate with him. Then the father gave his son a the best robe, placed a ring on his finger, and put shoes on his feet.

This is a symbol of the love of a caring father. The father wanted his son to know he was loved unconditionally. This is how we are to show love and support to people around us, especially those who we call “brothers and sisters” in Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank you for receiving me just as I am. Thank you for loving me and welcoming me as you do so well. You clothe me and set me apart for your glory.