Pastor Stephen Dedman

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Devotional For August 29, 2024

Trust

Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?
‭‭James‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬

God’s selection criteria differs from the world’s standards. Today’s verse celebrates the value God places on faith and highlights the rich inheritance awaiting those who love Him.

In the world’s eyes, wealth, power, and status often take center stage. But God’s perspective is radically different. He chooses those whom the world may consider poor or insignificant and blesses them with riches of faith.

God’s selection is not based on material wealth but on the wealth of faith. This faith isn’t limited by worldly constraints; it’s a faith that trusts God regardless of circumstances.

James reminds us that those whom God chooses are heirs of His kingdom. This means that regardless of our earthly circumstances, we have a glorious inheritance awaiting us—an inheritance that surpasses anything this world can offer.

James anlso emphasizes that this inheritance is promised to “those who love Him.” Love for God is the key that unlocks the treasures of His kingdom. It’s a love that aligns our hearts with His and leads us to walk in His ways.

Take a moment and reflect on the significance of being chosen heirs of God’s kingdom through faith and love. Are you nurturing your faith and cultivating a deeper love for God? 

Pray

Lord, I am humbled by Your choice to make me an heir of Your kingdom. Thank You for valuing faith and love above worldly riches. Help me to nurture my faith, to love You wholeheartedly, and to live as a testimony to Your grace and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For August 28, 2024

Encouragement

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭14‬

These words from Paul carry profound significance for believers facing opposition or mistreatment. Instead of retaliating with anger or seeking revenge, we are called to respond with blessing and kindness.

Blessing those who mistreat us goes against our natural inclinations. It requires us to lay aside our pride and ego, choosing instead to extend grace and forgiveness to those who mistreat us. It is a radical act of love that reflects the character of Christ, who washed the feet of the one who betrayed Him. 

Responding with blessing is a sign of supernatural strength. It is a demonstration of the power of God at work in our lives, enabling us to overcome evil with good. When we bless those who mistreat us, we break the cycle of hatred and retaliation.

As we release bitterness and resentment, we make room for God’s peace and healing to flood our hearts. And as we extend grace and kindness to others, we will experience the freedom and joy that comes from living in obedience to God’s Word.

Pray

Lord, give me strength to bless those who mistreat me. Help me to overcome evil with good and to trust in Your sovereignty and justice. Fill my heart with Your love and forgiveness, that I may be an instrument of reconciliation and healing in this broken world. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For August 27, 2024

Encouragement

Yes, all kings shall fall down before Him; all nations shall serve Him.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭72‬:‭11‬

One day, all kings and nations will bow down before the Lord. Today’s verse shows us the sovereignty of God and the day when His rule will be acknowledged and embraced by all. 

Today’s world is characterized by power struggles and political agendas. However, there is a day approaching when the highest earthly authorities will recognize the supremacy of the King of Kings. As believers, we find comfort and hope in the assurance that God’s divine plan will ultimately be carried out.

But what does this mean for us today? It serves as a reminder of the type of leadership that aligns with God’s heart. Godly leadership is characterized by humility, service, and a recognition that God has ultimate authority, not man. Whether we are leaders or followers, we’re called to live out the qualities that honor and serve God’s purposes.

Let’s pray for our leaders and for God to raise up Godly men and women who will recognize His authority and rule. Take a moment and reflect on your own life. Are your actions and attitude aligned with the humility and service that characterize godly leadership? 

Pray

Lord, thank You for revealing that one day all kings and nations will bow before You. I pray for the leaders across the world to recognize Your sovereignty and power. Help me to personally model godly leadership that glorifies Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.