Pastor Stephen Dedman

Latest Posts

God Has It All Worked Out

Encouragement

So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”
Matthew 1:22-23

Today’s verse says, “So all this was done that it might be fulfilled.” God knew 700 years before the birth of Christ that He would be born of Mary in Bethlehem. He spoke to Isaiah, the prophet, with these words of prophecy so that we would understand that the plans, purposes, and promises of God will always come to pass.

For Mary and Joseph, it was not the best timing. It wasn’t the best of circumstances. But it happened the way that God ordained it to happen! And because Mary and Joseph were faithful and obedient everything worked out just perfect.

It’s amazing to see how God works all things out for His glory. Sometimes it’s difficult to see the big picture when we have a small perspective. But with faithful and obedient hearts we don’t have to worry we can just trust God to work it all out.

Every detail of God’s ordained purposes are already worked out. It’s already done. God knows exactly where you are going and He knows how you’re gonna to get there. He is uniquely orchestrating every step of the way.

I want to encourage you today to trust God in all things. God knows what is best for you and what is to come in the near and distant future. Just trust and obey. Remember, God has it all worked out.

Pray

Lord, give me wisdom and understanding of Your Word so that I will trust you more. You have never failed me nor forsaken me and I know You never will. Give me peace in my heart that You are working out all the details of my life.

The Joy Of Generosity

Encouragement

But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Hebrews 13:16

Do you consider yourself to be a generous person? How do you measure generosity?

It’s easy to spot a generous person. They are always searching for ways to give to others. Generous people can be spotted from a distance. Their personality brightens the room.

Generosity is a duty and a privilege for every Christian. A duty because it’s what we are called to do as followers of Christ. A privilege because we receive so much joy when we sacrificially give.

Generous people often attract others. The reason being that they are joyful people. Joyful people are just fun to be around. Joy and positivity go hand in hand.

A generous person will share and give what they have even when they are not asked. They just have it in their heart to be generous. They give because they desire to share what has been given to them.

The early church in the Book of Acts is known for their generosity. People gave of their possessions because they saw others in need. Their hearts were softened by the gospel of Jesus Christ. They were compelled to sell land and give the money to those who were in need.

When was the last time you generously did something for someone else? Not just donating money to a charity, but you went out of your way to share of yourself. Take some time today to share something of yourself.

What do you have to share? Is it some of your time? Some of your encouraging words? Maybe it’s sharing some of your knowledge and wisdom. Will you share the gospel with someone today?

Pray

Lord, You have blessed me with so much. In return I want to bless someone else. I pray that You put someone in my path or someone on my mind that I can bless today.

Godliness Is Profitable

Encouragement

For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.
‭‭I Timothy‬ ‭4:8‬

In ancient Greek and Roman cultures physical exercise was very important. Most adult men participated in competitive sports and would devote themselves to staying fit. Paul writes to the young pastor, Timothy, and says the same work and commitment that people put towards physical exercise should be put toward pursuing godliness.

The word godliness means to have the character and attitude of God. It is a task to be godly but it is attainable. It is a worthy goal, much more worthy than the potential attainments of physical exercise. It takes effort, strength, and determination to achieve godliness which is comparable of how an athlete trains to be the best.

Spiritual development and physical development share some similarities. Both require exertion and proper nutrition. Feeding our mind, heart and soul is just as important, if not more, than feeding our body. Jesus was tempted by the devil to turn stones into bread but replied, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”‭‭ (Matthew‬ ‭4:4)

Do you exercise towards godliness? Do you put forth an excellent effort to keep yourself pure and holy? It takes a great deal of strength and will power but it’s worth the effort. God is very pleased when we reflect the image of His character and attitude.

Pray

Lord, I pray Your Word feeds me and satisfies me more than anything else. Help me to know You more so I can be who You want me to be.