Pastor Stephen Dedman

But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.
‭‭II Thessalonians‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬

There are times when we may feel tired, discouraged, or tempted to give up in our efforts to do good. Whether it’s serving others, sharing the gospel, or simply living out our faith in our daily lives, the road can sometimes be challenging and demanding.

Paul’s instructions to the Thessalonian believers applies to us as well: do not grow weary in doing good. Even when we face obstacles or opposition, we are called to persevere in living out our faith and demonstrating Christ’s love to those around us.

Perseverance in doing good requires steadfastness. It means continuing to show kindness, generosity, and compassion, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient. It means standing firm in our convictions and values, even when they are unpopular.

Jesus is the ultimate example of perseverance and endurance. We can draw strength from His grace and power. Trusting in God’s strength and guidance will sustain us along the way. May we never grow weary in serving others and advancing God’s kingdom, knowing that our labor will bear fruit for His glory.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the privilege of serving You. Give me strength and perseverance to continue doing good, even when I face challenges or opposition. Help me to fix my eyes on You and to trust in Your faithfulness. Let my life be a testimony to Your grace and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭3‬:‭11‬

John the Baptist proclaimed the coming of the Messiah and prepared the way for His ministry. He baptized people with water as a symbol of repentance, but he prophesied that Jesus will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire, signifying a deeper, transformative work in the hearts and lives of believers.

John the Baptist contrasts his baptism with water, which symbolizes repentance and cleansing from sin, with the baptism that Jesus will bring—a baptism with the Holy Spirit and fire. This baptism represents the impartation of the Holy Spirit’s power and presence, which brings about spiritual renewal, empowerment, and transformation.

As Christians, we are called to experience this baptism of the Holy Spirit, which is not merely an external ritual but a deep and inward work of God in our hearts and lives. The Holy Spirit gives us power to live as disciples of Jesus, enabling us to bear fruit, overcome sin, and walk in obedience to God’s will. He convicts us of sin, leads us into truth, and empowers us to live lives that glorify God.

The baptism of the Holy Spirit represents a purifying fire that refines and purges us from all that hinders our relationship with God. It burns away impurities, strengthens our faith, and empowers us to live boldly for Christ. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, we are transformed into the image of Christ, becoming more like Him in character and conduct.

Today, let us invite the Holy Spirit to come and fill us anew, empowering us to live as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the promise of the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which brings transformation and empowerment. Fill me with Your Spirit today, and purify me with Your refining fire. Help me to walk in obedience to Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.
‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬

Life is filled with its share of trials, hardships, and uncertainties. From personal struggles to global crises, we encounter tribulations of various kinds that can shake us to our core. In moments of difficulty, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless, wondering where we can find peace.

Yet, in the midst of life’s storms, Jesus offers to find our peace in Him. He doesn’t promise a life free from trouble, but He assures us that His presence and victory over the world are greater than any challenge we may face. In Christ, we can find a peace that transcends our circumstances, a peace that anchors our souls even in the midst of life’s fiercest storms.

When we fix our eyes on Jesus and anchor our hearts in His promises, we discover a peace that the world cannot give nor take away. It’s a peace that surpasses understanding, a peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). In Jesus, we find not only peace but also hope, strength, and courage to face whatever trials may come our way.

So, as we navigate the challenges of life, let us take heart in the words of Jesus. Let us find our peace in Him, knowing that He has already overcome the world. May His presence be our refuge and strength, sustaining us through every trial and leading us into His perfect peace.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the peace and hope I have in You. Help me to set my heart and mind on Your glory as I endure the trials and sufferings I face today. Give me joy in seeking Your presence and searching Your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.