Pastor Stephen Dedman

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. 

…for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬

In today’s verse, the Apostle Paul highlights two essential aspects of our relationship with God.

1. God’s Divine Will: The verse acknowledges that God desires us to align our will with His divine purpose. His will is always perfect and in our best interest. When we earnestly seek His will, we open the door for His guidance and blessings in our lives.

2. God’s Empowering Grace: Not only does God invite us to follow His will, but He also empowers us to do so. This empowerment comes through the Holy Spirit, who works within us, transforming our desires and enabling us to carry out His plans.

As we seek God’s will in our lives, we may face moments of uncertainty or doubt. But God’s Spirit guides and enlightens our hearts, helping us understand His purpose for us.

When we encounter difficulties or obstacles in following God’s will, His empowering grace equips us with the strength and resilience needed to overcome them.

God’s empowerment allows us to live purposefully, fulfilling His good pleasure. When we align our will with His, our lives take on deeper meaning and significance.

Philippians 2:13 reminds us that God is actively at work within us, enabling us to desire and fulfill His divine will. As we seek His guidance and rely on His empowering grace, we can live a life that brings Him glory and aligns with His perfect plan for us.

Pray

Lord, I am so grateful for Your invitation to follow Your will and for the empowering grace of Your Holy Spirit. Help me to seek Your guidance in all aspects of my life and to align my desires with Your purpose. Help me to trust in Your empowerment to fulfill Your good pleasure. In Jesus’ name, amen.

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬

Jesus contrasts the evil and destructive intentions of the devil with His own purpose—to bring abundant and eternal life to all who believe in Him.

Jesus offers us more than just existence; He offers us abundant life—a life marked by joy, purpose, and peace. However, the enemy tries to steal, kill, and destroy this abundant life by tempting us with sin and doubt. He seeks to rob us of the joy, purpose and peace that come from knowing and walking with Christ.

Living abundantly in Christ means actively pursuing the purposes and plans that He has for our lives. It involves using our gifts, talents, and resources to glorify God and bless others. Whether it’s serving in ministry, sharing the gospel with others, or simply showing love and kindness to those around us, every act of obedience and faithfulness contributes to the abundant life that Jesus offers.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the abundant life that only comes from You. Help me to fully embrace this life by surrendering myself to You completely and following You wholeheartedly. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I may experience the joy, peace, and purpose that come from walking with You. Guide me in living out Your purposes for my life, and empower me to be a light in the darkness, pointing others to the abundant life found only in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.