The Words Of His Mouth

December 12, 2019 Pastor Stephen Dedman Encouragement, Trust

The Words Of His Mouth

I have not departed from the commandment of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.
‭‭Job‬ ‭23:12‬ ‭

The Value Of God’s Word

Job’s friend, Eliphaz, advised him to agree with God and be at peace. He told Job to listen to God and make things right. (Job 22:21-27) Job knew in his heart that he was at peace with God. He knew God and had convictions concerning the things of God. Job’s response was that he cherished God’s words and they were more important than food.

God’s Word should be the most valued thing in our life. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness He told the devil, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4) The Bible holds such value for living. It is our hope and instruction that leads to victory. God’s Word is the foundation in which we understand who God is and how we can know Him. The Scripture is the truth.

There are many Christians who do not cherish and value the Word of God. For many say it is too hard to read and understand. The Holy Spirit helps us to comprehend the things of Scripture and how to apply the principles to our life. Preachers and teachers do a great job but we need more than sermons. We need the Word of God everyday. God told Joshua to never let the Book of the Law depart from his mouth and to meditate on it day and night. And by doing so his ways would be made prosperous and he would have good success. (Joshua 1:8) God’s Word is profitable for all things.

Prayer

Lord, give me understanding of Your Word and allow me to understand Your truth.

Christ Who Lives In Me

December 11, 2019 Pastor Stephen Dedman Encouragement, Faith, Salvation

Christ Who Lives In Me

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20

It’s No Longer Me

Being saved through Jesus Christ is not just a way to Heaven, it’s a new life in Christ here on this earth. Jesus not only gives us eternal life, He gives us new life here and now. Jesus changes our desires from the inside out. It begins with our heart and mind and works it’s way through our words and actions.

Jesus set forth the perfect example of how to live a holy life acceptable unto God. As Christians we strive to live like Christ and to strive for holiness and righteousness. We cannot do it alone for the flesh is weak. We must depend on the Holy Spirit to work in and through us. We must be conforming to His ways and seeking to please Him.

The power in this verse is the fact that being found in Christ we no longer are captive to sin. Yes, we do and will continue to sin but we are found not guilty when we place our faith in Christ. We are justified through the blood of Jesus. Jesus forgives us of our sins. Paul says we are crucified with Christ. We no longer satisfy our flesh desires, we aim to please our Lord and Master. No longer do we live for ourselves. Everyday should begin with the thought and ambition to please the Lord through everything we do. What are you going to do today for Jesus?

Prayer

Lord, today I die to myself and live for you. Use me and make me useful for Your kingdom sake.

A Gentle Tongue

December 10, 2019 Pastor Stephen Dedman Encouragement, Trust

A Gentle Tongue

A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭15:4‬ ‭

Choice Words

Words have power. Our words have the power to heal or crush. Positive and encouraging words can build up a person and negative and degrading words will tear them down. We must choose your words wisely.

People need to hear the truth but there is a positive and constructive process to do so. Sometimes our words come out hateful and unkind and are received as criticism. We must be careful to always be alert to what we are say and what kind of tone we say them in. Hurtful words are unforgettable. People will always remember the negative things you say. Right now you probably remember something negative that was said to you years ago. This is why it is important to use our words wisely.

The old saying, “if you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all” is a very good rule to follow. If we only speak true and positive words in a positive tone the outcome will be positive. We must build each other up and encourage one another in the Lord. Jesus never said anything that was untrue or derogatory. His words were always right and right on time. We must learn to control our speech. It takes much practice but it is possible. We will never be perfect but we can strive for perfection. Your words will have a great effect on people whether you like it or not. Even when you need to give constructive advice you can do it in a positive and encouraging way. Just be sure to pray before you speak. The Lord will give you the right words to say at the right time.

Prayer

Lord, let Your Spirit control my words and allow me to speak the truth with courage.