Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For November 7, 2023

November 7, 2023 Pastor Stephen Dedman Encouragement

Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,
‭‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭1‬

Jesus shared a parable (an earthly story with a heavenly meaning) to teach about the importance of persistent prayer. This verse reminds us that, in the midst of our challenges, we should remain steadfast in our commitment to prayer.

Life often presents us with difficulties, obstacles, and moments of despair. In those times, it’s easy to become discouraged and lose hope. But Jesus encourages us to do the opposite – to persist in prayer. Why? Because prayer is not just a means to an end; it’s a way to draw near to God, to find peace in His presence, and to align our hearts with His will.

Jesus desires that we continually seek Him in prayer and never give up. When our life is persistently seeking the Lord, we will be blessed with guidance, encouragement and peace. Are you diligently seeking the Lord in prayer?

Pray

Lord, thank You for teaching me to always pray and to never give up. Help me to be committed to prayer and to seek You for all things. Give me comfort and peace knowing You answer my prayers and provide only the best. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 6, 2023

November 6, 2023 Pastor Stephen Dedman Encouragement

Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”
‭‭John‬ ‭13‬:‭8‬

In this verse, we witness Peter’s initial resistance to Jesus washing his feet. Peter thought it was beneath the Messiah’s dignity to perform such a humble task. However, Jesus’ response is profound. He tells Peter that unless he allows Him to wash his feet, he cannot have a part with Him. This statement goes beyond the physical act; it represents the spiritual cleansing and humility required to follow Jesus.

Just as Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, He desires to cleanse us from our sins and pride. We must be willing to let go of our self-reliance and allow Jesus to cleanse our hearts. It is through this act of humility and surrender that we can truly have a part with Him and experience the fullness of His grace and love in our lives.

Pray

Lord, I come before You with a humble heart. I acknowledge my need for spiritual cleansing and the removal of pride. I ask for Your forgiveness and to make me pure and holy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 5, 2023

November 5, 2023 Pastor Stephen Dedman Encouragement

that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.
‭‭I John‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬

Fellowship is a powerful concept that goes beyond mere social interactions. It involves a deep and intimate connection. Just as the apostles had a personal relationship with Jesus, they want to share this opportunity with us. Through their testimony and the Word of God, we can come to know Jesus in a profound way. We can experience His love, grace, and truth.

As we embark on this journey of fellowship with God, it’s important to understand that it is not a one-sided relationship. It requires our active participation and a heart open to God’s presence. We must spend time in prayer, reading the Scriptures, and seeking His guidance. In doing so, we draw closer to Him and experience His transformative power in our lives.

Consider the opportunity for fellowship we have with God. Strive to deepen your relationship with Him, seeking His presence, and embracing the love and unity that come from being in fellowship with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the wonderful opportunity to be in fellowship with You. Open my heart and mind to Your presence. Help me to grow in Your likeness and point others to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.