Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Doing It For The Lord

Encouragement

‘And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. ‘
Colossians 3:23-24

Mediocrity and laziness have no place in the Christian life. We must always maintain integrity and reliability. Our work habits and labor reflect in our personal relationship with the Lord. God always wants us to do our best.

We will always have people in our lives that will disappoint us, neglect us, mistreat us, and even betray us. Some will demand that we give to them while offering nothing in return. And that is why Paul instructs us to do everything enthusiastically as to the Lord and not to people.

There is a big difference between doing something for people and doing something for the Lord. Working for the Lord changes our perspective as we view our endeavors in light of what He has done for us. Our efforts are never overlooked when we know we are doing it all for the Lord.

You may have a boss that doesn’t appreciate you, a friend who isn’t loyal, or a spouse who doesn’t respect you, but that does not give you the right to cut corners, gossip or cheat in return. God demands that we love others the same way He does. We are to treat others according to the way God treats us.

Pay close attention as to why you do what you do. Are you doing things to please others or to please the Lord? God is worthy of our best effort.

Pray

Lord, increase my abilities to always give my best in everything I do. Give me wisdom to understand that I am working for You and You will reward my efforts. Thank You for giving me strength, knowledge and wisdom to do what I do.

You Have The Power

Encouragement

‘Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. ‘
Ephesians 6:10

We all have witnessed a police officer raise his hand up to stop oncoming traffic. In response the vehicles that are approaching the officer come to a stop. But here is a question… does the officer have the physical power to actually stop the vehicle with a hand? Of course not.

The police officer is given the authority by the government to protect and serve. They use that authority to direct traffic and keep people safe. Most people recognize that authority and they stop their vehicles at the command of the officer. Hopefully the officer didn’t have to use flashing lights to make you stop!

In the same way there is authority and power invested in us by the Lord Jesus Christ! The believer who thoroughly understands that the power of God is backing them can exercise his or her authority and face the enemy fearlessly. Jesus has given us the power to tread on the devil, demons, evil spirits, and all of his cohorts.

Paul told believers to be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. That means you can step out in front of the devil, hold up your hand, and in the name of Jesus (authority), tell him not to come any closer. Use your authority and resist the devil!

Pray

Lord, give me wisdom and spiritual understanding of the authority and power that has been given unto me as a believer. Give me the understanding of the authority. Help me to use the authority to defeat my enemies… in Jesus Name.

Share The Love Of Jesus

Encouragement, Faith

‘What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice, ‘
Philippians 1:18

Is sharing Jesus with others a priority for you? When was the last time you shared with someone the grace and goodness of God?

The most important thing to Paul was that Christ needed to be proclaimed and exalted. Even when he was in prison, Paul was thinking of ways he could preach. The only thing that brought him joy was proclaiming the grace of God.

Paul’s message was not always received in agreement. Many times he was stoned, beaten or rebuked for preaching the name of Jesus. But nothing stopped him from preaching Christ. He loved Jesus.

What’s keeping you from spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ today? We have so many resources at our fingertips yet we sometimes remain silent. Even in some churches, Christ is not preached! This ought not to be so.

Paul was motivated by God’s grace. He was living proof of what God can do with a person who desires to be used by God. We should be just as eager as Paul to share the Good News of Jesus.

Paul could have lost heart being imprisoned in Rome yet he rejoiced in his circumstances. He recognized that God was ordaining every situation of his life. Despite all of the negative circumstances, he kept rejoicing and proclaiming the saving name of Jesus.

Are you motivated by the love of Christ?

Pray

Lord, thank You for what You have called me to do. Help me to keep rejoicing and speaking Your great name. I pray that wherever You guide me today, I will tell others about You.