Pastor Stephen Dedman

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Devotional For September 26, 2023

Encouragement

Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!
‭‭Romans‬ ‭11‬:‭12‬

In Romans 11, the apostle Paul discusses the relationship between the Jewish people and Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation. Verse 12 presents a profound truth: the temporary “fall” or rejection of Israel had a purpose – it brought riches to the world and blessings to the Gentiles. But there’s even more to come – the fullness of Israel’s restoration will bring even greater blessings.

This verse reminds us that God’s plans are intricate and purposeful. Even when it may seem like a setback or failure, God can work it out for good. Israel’s rejection opened the door for the Gentiles to hear the Gospel, leading to the salvation of countless souls. This is a reminder of God’s redemptive power, using unexpected circumstances to accomplish His divine purposes.

As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that God’s plan for our lives is similarly purposeful. Even in our setbacks and failures, He can use these moments to bring about blessings, growth, and transformation. We should also eagerly anticipate the “fullness” of God’s blessings in our lives, trusting that He has even greater things in store.

In your prayer today, thank God for His sovereign plan. Ask Him to help you see the purpose in both your successes and challenges. Pray for a heart filled with anticipation, trusting that God’s blessings will continue to unfold in your life, just as He has promised.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your sovereign plan and wisdom. Help me to trust in Your purpose even when I face setbacks or failures. Let me see the blessings in all the unexpected places. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 25, 2023

Encouragement

How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?
‭‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭14‬

In today’s verse, the apostle Paul presents a chain of questions that highlight the importance of sharing the Gospel. It begins with the question, “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed?” The implication is clear: people need to know about Jesus to believe in Him. But how will they believe unless they hear about Him?

This verse underscores the crucial role of those who proclaim the Good News – the preachers, evangelists, and every believer who shares their faith. We are called to be the messengers who bring the message of hope and salvation to a world in need. Just as someone once shared the Gospel with us, we are now entrusted with the task of passing it on.

Today, let’s reflect on our responsibility to share the Gospel. Whether it’s through our words, actions, or lifestyle, we have the privilege of introducing others to the transformative power of Christ’s love. Let’s not underestimate the impact we can have on someone’s life by being a vessel for God’s message of redemption.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the precious gift of Your Gospel. I acknowledge my role in sharing this message of hope with a world in need. Please grant me the courage, wisdom, and opportunities to proclaim Your truth to those who have not yet heard. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 24, 2023

Encouragement

For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬

The author of Hebrews urges us to “consider Him.” To consider means to think deeply, to reflect upon, and to meditate. So, let us consider Jesus, the ultimate example of endurance and faith.

Jesus endured unimaginable hostility during His earthly ministry. He was ridiculed, mocked, and betrayed by those He came to save. He faced persecution, false accusations, and even death on a cross. Yet, He endured it all with faith in His Father’s plan.

When we face our own trials and challenges, we can find encouragement in Jesus’ example. His endurance teaches us that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, we can press on in faith, knowing that He is with us.

The verse also warns us against becoming weary and discouraged in our souls. Weariness can cause us to lose heart and give up. But by fixing our focus on Jesus, we can find renewed strength and hope.

When we focus solely on our problems and hardships, they can seem overwhelming. But when we shift our focus to Jesus, our problems are put into proper perspective. He is greater than any challenge we face. (Thank You, Jesus!)

So, as we face life’s ups and downs, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. When we consider His endurance in the face of hostility, we find the inspiration to endure our own trials with faith and perseverance.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the example of endurance and strength to keep going. No matter the challenges that come my way I will remember focus more on You and less on my troubles. Help me to endure and overcome every challenge and trial. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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