Pastor Stephen Dedman

Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭4‬:‭5‬-‭6‬

As followers of Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of His love and truth in the world. The apostle Paul provides us with practical guidance on how to fulfill this calling, particularly in our interactions with those outside the faith.

Firstly, Paul urges us to “walk in wisdom toward those who are outside.” This reminds us to conduct ourselves with discernment and holiness, especially when engaging with non-believers. Our actions and attitudes should reflect the wisdom and grace of Christ, drawing others to Him through our example.

Secondly, Paul encourages us to “redeem the time.” In a world filled with distractions and competing priorities, we are called to make the most of every opportunity to share the gospel and demonstrate Christ’s love. Time is a precious resource, and we are to use it wisely for the advancement of God’s kingdom.

Finally, Paul emphasizes the importance of our speech. He instructs us to let our speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt. Our words have the power to build up or tear down, to encourage or discourage, to point others to Christ or push them away. Therefore, we are to speak with kindness, gentleness, and respect, allowing the flavor of God’s grace to permeate our conversations.

As we strive to walk in wisdom, redeem the time, and let our speech be seasoned with salt, may we be empowered by the Holy Spirit to effectively share the hope and truth of the gospel with those around us. May our lives be a living testimony to the transformative power of God’s love, compelling others to seek Him and find salvation in His Son, Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the privilege of being Your ambassador in the world. Help me to walk in wisdom, redeeming the time, and let my speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt. May I reflect Your love and truth in all that I say and do, drawing others to You and glorifying Your name. 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.

Now when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” But after that no one dared question Him.
‭‭Mark‬ ‭12‬:‭34‬

In Mark 12:32-34, the scribe acknowledged the importance of loving God with all one’s being and loving one’s neighbor as oneself. Jesus commended the scribe for his understanding, affirming that he was close to the kingdom of God. This exchange highlights the centrality of love for God and others in fulfilling God’s commandments.

The point Jesus is making is that genuine understanding and practice of these foundational commandments bring one close to the essence of God’s kingdom. The scribe’s recognition that love for God and others surpasses religious rituals and sacrifices aligns with Jesus’ teachings about the heart of true spirituality. The kingdom of God is not merely about external observances but is found in the sincere love, devotion, and ethical treatment of God and fellow human beings.

The application here is profound – you can worship and follow religious practices but until you truly love God and love others, something is still missing. Following Jesus closely allows us to express our love for God and toward each other. 

Pray

Lord, grant me the wisdom to understand and follow Your commandments. May my actions reflect a heart that seeks Your kingdom. Draw me closer to You as I grow in understanding and obedience. Thank You for the guidance Your Word provides. In Jesus’ name, amen.