Pastor Stephen Dedman

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A Different Perspective

Faith, Trust

“When the Philistine (Goliath) arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine.”
‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭17:48‬

The story of David and Goliath is one of the greatest underdog stories of all time. It has motivated children and adults alike to face their biggest fears and claim victory over life’s toughest challenges.

David’s approach was so courageous that it seemed ridiculous to those who watched in awe. For 40 days the arrogant, loud mouth giant taunted the Israelites. The Israelites were scared to death. But once David heard what Goliath was doing he responded in faith.

David had a different perspective towards the problem. He had a God-perspective. While everyone was saying how big the giant was David was saying how small he was compared to God. Everyone was saying Goliath was too big to hit while David was saying he was too big to miss.

We all face challenges that test our courage and faith. How we respond depends on how we view God. When we respond to challenges with fear we are ultimately telling God He is not big enough or strong enough to take care of us. That’s not the right approach. Instead we need the courage like David had so we can face our fears with faith.

God wants to show us what He can do for us and through us. When we don’t give Him the chance to move in miraculous ways. We tend to down-size His majestic power and minimize His great blessings.

If you want to experience great victories, you’re going to have to place your faith and trust in God for all things and gain a God-size perspective for all your challenges.

Pray

Lord, give me courage to allow You to work in and through me. Show me what You are able to do. Thank You in advance for what You are going to do.

Family of God

Faith, Salvation

‘Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, ‘
Ephesians 2:19

Have you ever felt like you were a stranger living in a foreign land? Have you ever had to relocate to a different community, new job or a new school and felt like a fish out of water? It takes a little time before you actually feel like it’s home.

In today’s verse, Paul wants us to consider what it feels like to become a member of God’s household; to be part of the family of God, to be a child of God.

Maybe you have sung the hymn, “I’m so glad… I’m a part… of the family of God.” Sing it right now! “I’ve been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood.” Now it’s stuck in your head!

In reality, faith is not just believing but belonging. As a believer in Jesus, you belong to God’s family and His household. The moment you put your trust in Jesus you are no longer a stranger to God but a friend or a child. Even though you are living on earth, your real citizenship is in heaven!

The moment you say, “Lord Jesus, I believe in you, forgive me of my sins and save me,” instantaneously and miraculously, you belong to God. Have you experienced that blessing of belonging to God?

Our home is in heaven and one day we will be in the presence of our Lord and Savior. Can you imagine what it will be like? Heaven awaits us and we long to see Jesus face to face. Let the hope of eternal glory fill your heart with everlasting joy.

Pray

Lord, thank You for saving my soul and accepting me into the family of God. Fill my heart with joy and give me a song in my mouth. Until I’m in Your presence, let Your light shine bright in me so others will know You as well.

Be Strong And Full Of Faith

Encouragement, Faith, Trust

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua‬ ‭1:9‬

Joshua was appointed by God to lead the people of God into the promise land. Stress and leadership pressures were upon him after Moses died. So God spoke a personal message to him to encourage him how to be a successful, spiritual leader.

That same message applicable to us today. God instructs us to be strong and courageous and to meditate on the Word of God. These are key elements to living a successful life under the lordship of Christ.

The devil knows the power that God’s Word has on your life. Satan will do whatever he needs to do to keep you from experiencing the supernatural power of God. He will distract you, keep you occupied on things that don’t matter, and he will make you stress on things that God has already accomplished.

The devil has a sneaky way of interfering with our daily walk with Jesus. It happened in the very beginning with Adam and Eve and it still happens today. But we have the mighty power of God to overcome and conquer the evil schemes of our enemy.

God wants you to be strong and courageous. He wants you to lean towards Him for wisdom and safety. Everything we need is given to us through faith in Him. But it is up to you and I if we rely on Him to see us through.

Would you rather have the resources from God or would you rather rely on your own human logic and strength? God wants you to trust Him and put your full faith into knowing He is all you need.

Pray

Lord, I trust You and place my full faith in You because You know all things. I will encourage myself in Your Words and I will enjoy the life you have given to me.