Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Faith

Do You Need A Change?

Encouragement, Faith

“For I am the Lord , I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob.”
Malachi 3:6

We need to remember an amazing truth about God. He will never change. He is the same yesterday, today, and forevermore. (Hebrews 13:8)

Because God will never change, we can seek Him for stability. It brings us great comfort to know that because God never changes, His promises never change. What God promised thousands of years ago remains the same today.

The same power that God displayed throughout the Bible is the same today. That should bring us peace and comfort. We trust that God is with us no matter what is going on in our life.

The world around us is changing quickly. It seems like everyday something new is being invented or discovered. Sometimes it’s hard to keep up with technology.

One thing we should never change is the Word of God. The Word is what it is and does not need to be changed. The method of how we share the Word of God may need to change but the message of God’s Word is perfect and final.

You may not realize it but you have changed over time. Your looks, hair, or style may change slowly over time. Some changes need to be made if you are not as close to God as you should be.

What can you do to make your life more like Christ? Do you need to change anything to look more like Jesus?

Pray

Lord, allow me to see who I am before You. As I look into the mirror I want to see You. If there is anything that I need to change to make me more like You, please show me.

Be Fruitful

Encouragement, Faith, Trust

‘Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.’
I John 5:21

Just as it’s important to maintain a healthy heart physically, it is equally vital that we guard our hearts from spiritual implications as well. As Christians, God takes 1st place in our hearts so we must be aware of what is competing for taking His rightful place.

Solomon knew the importance of this issue as he wrote, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” (Proverbs 4:23) There are dangerous consequences when we allow other things, besides the things of God, to take precedence in our hearts.

What’s competing for your affection today? The best way to find out is to consider what Solomon stated. What is the course of your life today or right now? Is your relationship with Christ as close as it’s ever been?

If not, something may be causing you to drift away from the things of God. Whatever you give your heart to will determine the course of your life. The enemy wants to distract you from serving God with your whole heart. Jesus said the most important commandment is to love God with all of our heart, soul, and mind. (Matthew 22:37)

Is your heart open to Christ? Does He have first place in your heart? If not, ask Him to give you a heart after His own heart. Let the Lord have full reign of your heart and it will set you on course. Put God first and your life will be fruitful and productive for His glory.

Pray

Lord, I invite You to have full access to my heart. I desire Your fellowship and need Your grace. Lead me today to a fruitful and productive life.

Renewed Faith

Encouragement, Faith

“Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.””
John 20:19

After the crucifixion of Jesus, the disciples stayed in the upper room for fear of the Jews. Because they were disciples of Jesus, they feared they may be crucified next. But along with the fear, they were confused as to what to do next.

For three years they dedicated themselves to the ministry work that Jesus taught them. On top of the fear and confusion, the women reported to them that Jesus was alive and spoke to them. Fear, confusion and bewilderment!

All of a sudden, from out of nowhere, Jesus appeared to them in the upper room. There is a reason why His words were, “Peace be with you.” They were terrified. The doors were locked. And there appeared Jesus, alive and well.

Can you imagine what the disciples were feeling? How would you react?

There was a common response to everyone who witnessed Jesus after the resurrection. They were amazed and they wanted to tell others. They went from fear, confusion, and bewilderment to a new sense of amazement and excitement. The disciples were reenergized with faith and hope.

Are you energized with faith and hope? Are you eager to tell others that Jesus is alive? All it takes is to encounter a moment with Jesus and it makes all the difference in the world.

If you want to renew your faith and hope all you have to do is draw close to God. The Bible promises that whoever draws near to Him, He will draw near to them. (James 4:8)

Pray

Lord, I want to encounter You right now. Forgive me of my sins and refresh my faith and hope. I turn to You for everything I need.