Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: bible

Devotional For October 18, 2023

Encouragement

…keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
‭‭Jude‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬

This is a simple, yet profound verse that calls us to anchor our lives in the love of our Heavenly Father. It’s not only a command but also a promise that is vital for our spiritual journey.

To “keep” suggests an active effort on our behalf. It involves making deliberate choices to remain close to God, to cherish His love, and to live in accordance with His will. Keeping ourselves in the love of God means consistently nurturing our relationship with Him through prayer, studying His Word, and seeking His presence in our daily lives.

Jude encourages us to look for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the midst of a troubled world, the mercy of Christ offers us hope, forgiveness, and salvation. As we face the challenges of life, we can trust in the unchanging and boundless mercy of our Savior.

The ultimate promise in this verse is the hope of eternal life. By the love and grace of our Heavenly Father we have the promise of life eternal in the presence of our Lord.

Do you consistently seek His mercy and grace? Make an intentional effort to deepen your connection with Him through prayer, worship, and studying the Scriptures. In doing so, you will find strength, hope, and the assurance of eternal life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the gift of eternal life. By Your mercy and grace I know I am forgiven of my sins. Keep me anchored in Your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 16, 2023

Encouragement

For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭22‬

The Apostle Paul paints a vivid picture of a world in anticipation, eagerly awaiting its redemption. The imagery of creation groaning and laboring with birth pangs gives a sense of longing and hope. We too yearn for the fullness of God’s promises to be realized in our lives.

The world is filled with both beauty and brokenness. As believers, we are not exempt from brokenness. We experience suffering, grief, and the weight of our own shortcomings. But Romans 8:22 reassures us that we are not alone in our longing for redemption.

This verse serves as a reminder that our hope is not in vain. We have the assurance that God is working to bring about the redemption of all things. In the midst of our struggles and the world’s brokenness, we can look forward with hope, knowing that a day of restoration is coming.

We can also find purpose in this process. Just as creation groans and labors, we too can be agents of change, spreading God’s love and working toward the restoration of His creation.

Today, trust in God’s promise of restoration, and seek to be a light of hope and love in a world that groans for redemption.

Pray

Lord, I acknowledge the brokenness in this world. I long for the day of redemption. Help me to find hope and purpose in my role of spreading Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 15, 2023

Encouragement

Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭60‬:‭1‬

Isaiah 60:1 is a verse filled with hope. In the midst of living in a dark world, the glory of the Lord is shining upon us. It carries a message that no matter what happens, God’s presence is with us.

“Arise” is a call to action. It encourages us to lift ourselves from doubt, fear, or complacency. It urges us to wake up from a spiritual slumber and embrace the new day that God has provided.

“Shine” is a reminder of our purpose. As God’s children, we are called to be the light of Jesus to the world, reflecting His love, grace, and truth. When we shine, we illuminate the darkness around us and help others find their way to God.

“And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you” signifies the divine favor and blessing that God bestows upon those who seek Him. When His glory rests upon us, we are empowered to live with purpose, grace, and a deep sense of His presence.

As a child of God, you are called to arise and shine. Let your life be a reflection of God’s light and glory. In times of challenge, look to the risen light of Christ for guidance, strength, and hope. Embrace the promise of His presence.

Pray

Lord, thank You for entrusting me to shine Your light in this dark world. Help me to heed the call to arise and shine. Fill me with Your presence and empower me to be a glimpse of hope to those around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.