Pastor Stephen Dedman

Question #5 – Do you have a generous heart?

I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭20‬:‭35‬

When Paul was addressing the elders in the church at Ephesus, he emphasized a principle that reflects the heart of Christ: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” These words, originally spoken by Jesus, reveal the power of generosity. But what does it mean to live with a generous heart and mindset?

Jesus, the ultimate model of generosity, consistently gave of Himself during His time on earth. He gave His time, His healing touch, His teachings, and ultimately, His life for the salvation of the world.

Paul reminds us of this truth, that giving brings a blessing far greater than simply receiving. This is not to say receiving is bad, but there is a deeper joy, fulfillment, and divine blessing that comes with a life of generosity. The heart behind giving reflects God’s nature—He is a giving God, and we are called to reflect His character.

A generous heart is not just one that gives occasionally or when it’s convenient. It’s a heart that looks for opportunities to bless others. It’s a mindset that sees giving not as an expense, but as a gain—a spiritual gain that aligns us more closely with the heart of God.

Generosity flows freely from a heart that fully trusts in God. Is God calling you to be more generous?

Pray

Lord, thank You for showing me what true generosity looks like. Help me to live with a generous heart and mindset. Open my eyes to see the needs around me, and give me the courage to give selflessly, trusting that You will provide for all my needs. May my generosity reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Question #4 – Do you make prayer a priority?

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
‭‭I Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬

Writing to the Christians in Thessalonica, Paul reminded them that prayer should not just be a reaction to crisis or blessings, it is meant to be an ongoing dialogue with God. Constant communication with God involves praising Him, asking Him, and thanking Him.

Communication with God should be an important part of our day. Further, it should be a natural thing to pray to our Heavenly Father. He desires to fellowship with us.

We should always be ready to turn to God, whether in praise, thanksgiving or with supplication. Often we turn to God for last resorts or when we are desperate or nowhere else to turn. Does this sound familiar?

Paul’s instruction should challenge us to seek God in all things. Making prayer a priority transforms our outlook on life, sets a positive foundation, and includes His presence in our activities.

To make prayer a priority in your life, start with incorporating short prayers throughout the whole day. Start with praising God for a new fresh day, ask Him to keep you from evil, and thank Him for His grace and mercy. Keep an ongoing conversation reflecting on what comes to your heart and mind.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the gift of prayer. Help me to make prayer a priority. Teach me to pray. Guide me through this day as I seek Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Question #3 – Is Jesus “Lord” of your life?

The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭103‬:‭19‬

Many Christians say that Jesus is Lord. And they are exactly correct. Revelation 19:16 says, “He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”

It’s one thing to say that Jesus is Lord but it is another for Jesus to be head of your life. Jesus is not only our Savior; He is Lord and Master over us. Jesus has all authority in a believer’s life.

As “Lord” of our lives, Jesus obtains the position as Master and we are His servants. We submit to His Lordship and obey His commandments. We know that Jesus deserves this right to be Lord.

Making Jesus “Lord” means to allow Him to direct every area of life including our thoughts, decisions, relationships, and actions. Often we can be tempted to compartmentalize our faith, giving Jesus control over some areas while keeping others to ourselves. But if He is truly Lord, there is no part of your life that is off-limits to Him.

Consider your life today. Is there an area where you’ve been holding back from giving Jesus full control? Is He Lord in your career? What about your personal habits? Is He Lord of your fears and doubt? Surrender it all to Him.

Pray

Lord, I not only call You Lord but I surrender to Your Lordship. I give You my heart and mind, trusting in Your wisdom and goodness. Give me grace to let go and fully submit to Your will. Lead me and guide me. In Jesus’ name, amen.