Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

Advance The Gospel

Encouragement, Faith, Salvation

Advance The Gospel

I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel,
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1:12‬

Everything Happens For A Reason

Something very significant about the apostle Paul was that he was always concerned with how he could spread the gospel.  When he was placed into prison he used that opportunity to share Jesus with those around him.  After being attacked by a mob he preached the gospel.  When he was brought before the king he shared his faith as a testimony.  It didn’t seem to matter what circumstance he was in, he was continually sharing the gospel with others.  He would use his situation as an opportunity to share Jesus with whoever he was with.  Paul could take a negative situation and turn it into a great opportunity to win someone to Christ.

We too should look at every situation we encounter as an opportunity to share the love of Jesus or to speak the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ.  God may have us at an exact location or in a purposeful circumstance to share our testimony or speak a word of compassion to someone who needs it.  We never need to miss an opportunity that God may be giving us to give the best gift someone can receive.  God uses us in unique ways to further the building of His Kingdom.  You may think you are in a crisis but know that God has you in it for a reason.  Try not to become angry at God or even turn away from your faith just because you endure a time of suffering.  We should be like Paul and turn the circumstance into an opportunity to advance the gospel.

Prayer

Lord, help me to be aware of where you have me and to be aware of the people around me so that I can tell them about the good news of Jesus.

The Words Of His Mouth

Encouragement, Trust

The Words Of His Mouth

I have not departed from the commandment of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.
‭‭Job‬ ‭23:12‬ ‭

The Value Of God’s Word

Job’s friend, Eliphaz, advised him to agree with God and be at peace.  He told Job to listen to God and make things right. (Job 22:21-27)  Job knew in his heart that he was at peace with God.  He knew God and had convictions concerning the things of God.  Job’s response was that he cherished God’s words and they were more important than food.

God’s Word should be the most valued thing in our life.  When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness He told the devil, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)  The Bible holds such value for living.  It is our hope and instruction that leads to victory.  God’s Word is the foundation in which we understand who God is and how we can know Him.  The Scripture is the truth.

There are many Christians who do not cherish and value the Word of God.  For many say it is too hard to read and understand.  The Holy Spirit helps us to comprehend the things of Scripture and how to apply the principles to our life. Preachers and teachers do a great job but we need more than sermons.  We need the Word of God everyday.  God told Joshua to never let the Book of the Law depart from his mouth and to meditate on it day and night.  And by doing so his ways would be made prosperous and he would have good success. (Joshua 1:8)  God’s Word is profitable for all things.

Prayer

Lord, give me understanding of Your Word and allow me to understand Your truth.

 

Christ Who Lives In Me

Encouragement, Faith, Salvation

Christ Who Lives In Me

 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20

 

It’s No Longer Me

Being saved through Jesus Christ is not just a way to Heaven, it’s a new life in Christ here on this earth.  Jesus not only gives us eternal life, He gives us new life here and now.  Jesus changes our desires from the inside out.  It begins with our heart and mind and works it’s way through our words and actions.

Jesus set forth the perfect example of how to live a holy life acceptable unto God.  As Christians we strive to live like Christ and to strive for holiness and righteousness.  We cannot do it alone for the flesh is weak.  We must depend on the Holy Spirit to work in and through us.  We must be conforming to His ways and seeking to please Him.

The power in this verse is the fact that being found in Christ we no longer are captive to sin.  Yes, we do and will continue to sin but we are found not guilty when we place our faith in Christ.  We are justified through the blood of Jesus.  Jesus forgives us of our sins.  Paul says we are crucified with Christ.  We no longer satisfy our flesh desires, we aim to please our Lord and Master.  No longer do we live for ourselves.  Everyday should begin with the thought and ambition to please the Lord through everything we do.  What are you going to do today for Jesus?

Prayer

Lord, today I die to myself and live for you.  Use me and make me useful for Your kingdom sake.