Pastor Stephen Dedman

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May 24, 2023

Encouragement

For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, And abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭86‬:‭5‬

Today’s verse offers a profound and comforting truth: the Lord is good, forgiving, and overflowing with mercy for all who call upon Him.

The psalmist acknowledges God’s inherent goodness and willingness to forgive. He is a compassionate and loving God, even when we stumble and fall. His goodness and forgiveness are not conditional because of His nature and character.

When we call upon the Lord, we acknowledge our need for His forgiveness and mercy. In our brokenness, we find that His love surpasses all of our failures. God longs for us to come to Him with contrite hearts, ready to receive His grace.

Regardless of the mistakes we’ve made, the Lord eagerly waits for us to turn to Him. He longs to extend His loving-kindness, lifting the weight of guilt from our shoulders and showering us with His mercy.

It is important that we confess our sins and ask God to forgive us. Only then will we experience the depth of His mercy and grace

Pray

Lord, your goodness and mercy keep me coming back to You. Your grace is sufficient for me. Help me to never find comfort outside of Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 23, 2023

Encouragement

Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
‭‭James‬ ‭3‬:‭18‬

As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers. Today we are reminded of how important it is to be cultivators of peace.

Peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is a profound state of harmony and well-being. It involves unity, reconciliation, and restoration. God desires for us to promote peace to reflect His glory.

When we have experienced the peace that surpasses all understanding in our own lives, we become equipped to extend that same peace to others. As we draw near to God, He enables us to bear the fruit of righteousness, which includes peace as a vital part.

Promoting peace involves choosing our words carefully, speaking with grace and love, and seeking reconciliation rather than harboring bitterness and resentment. It involves careful listening, empathizing, and seeking to understand others’ perspectives. It involves forgiving others.

As we faithfully promote peace, we will reap a harvest of righteousness. Additionally, we create an environment where righteousness can flourish. It brings healing, restoration, and transformation.

Promoting peace may be difficult at times. But don’t get discouraged because God is with us. We can find strength in knowing that we are aligning ourselves with His divine purpose and reflecting His character.

Are you a peacemaker? Do you faithfully pursue peace, reflecting the awesome power of God’s love and grace?

Pray

Lord, thank You for calling me to be a person who reflects Your character. Help me to promote peace in all areas of my life. Transform my heart to reflect Your peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May 22, 2023

Encouragement

I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭13‬:‭6‬

The psalmist David, was known as a man after God’s own heart, and still experienced moments of despair and doubt. Though troubles surrounded him, he had a reason to rejoice!

Even when we are weighed down by life’s burdens, we can lift our voices and praise, declaring God’s majesty, His love, and His unfailing care. Praise becomes a powerful weapon when we face discouragement, as it redirects our attention from our problems to the One who is greater than any challenge we face.

In our time of uncertainty, we can find hope and encouragement in the never changing character of our God. He is a God who sees, who hears, and who cares deeply for His children. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). The circumstances around us may be burdensome, but our God remains steadfast, faithful, and true.

Regardless of what we may be going through, our hearts can sing melody of praise. Remember the goodness of God and give thanks for His faithfulness.

Pray

Lord, I praise You for Your goodness and faithfulness. Even in the midst of trials, help me to trust in Your unwavering love and care. Teach me to sing Your praises, regardless of my circumstances. In Jesus’ name, amen.