Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: bible

Devotional For September 25, 2023

Encouragement

How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?
‭‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭14‬

In today’s verse, the apostle Paul presents a chain of questions that highlight the importance of sharing the Gospel. It begins with the question, “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed?” The implication is clear: people need to know about Jesus to believe in Him. But how will they believe unless they hear about Him?

This verse underscores the crucial role of those who proclaim the Good News – the preachers, evangelists, and every believer who shares their faith. We are called to be the messengers who bring the message of hope and salvation to a world in need. Just as someone once shared the Gospel with us, we are now entrusted with the task of passing it on.

Today, let’s reflect on our responsibility to share the Gospel. Whether it’s through our words, actions, or lifestyle, we have the privilege of introducing others to the transformative power of Christ’s love. Let’s not underestimate the impact we can have on someone’s life by being a vessel for God’s message of redemption.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the precious gift of Your Gospel. I acknowledge my role in sharing this message of hope with a world in need. Please grant me the courage, wisdom, and opportunities to proclaim Your truth to those who have not yet heard. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 24, 2023

Encouragement

For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬

The author of Hebrews urges us to “consider Him.” To consider means to think deeply, to reflect upon, and to meditate. So, let us consider Jesus, the ultimate example of endurance and faith.

Jesus endured unimaginable hostility during His earthly ministry. He was ridiculed, mocked, and betrayed by those He came to save. He faced persecution, false accusations, and even death on a cross. Yet, He endured it all with faith in His Father’s plan.

When we face our own trials and challenges, we can find encouragement in Jesus’ example. His endurance teaches us that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, we can press on in faith, knowing that He is with us.

The verse also warns us against becoming weary and discouraged in our souls. Weariness can cause us to lose heart and give up. But by fixing our focus on Jesus, we can find renewed strength and hope.

When we focus solely on our problems and hardships, they can seem overwhelming. But when we shift our focus to Jesus, our problems are put into proper perspective. He is greater than any challenge we face. (Thank You, Jesus!)

So, as we face life’s ups and downs, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. When we consider His endurance in the face of hostility, we find the inspiration to endure our own trials with faith and perseverance.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the example of endurance and strength to keep going. No matter the challenges that come my way I will remember focus more on You and less on my troubles. Help me to endure and overcome every challenge and trial. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 23, 2023

Encouragement

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1

Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved and comforting passages in the Bible. It has brought solace and strength to countless individuals throughout history.

“The Lord is my shepherd.” These five words convey a profound message of faith and trust. In describing the Lord as a shepherd, King David, the author of this psalm, draws upon imagery that was familiar to the people of his time. Shepherds were responsible for guiding, protecting, and providing for their sheep. In the same way, the Lord takes on the role of a caring and attentive shepherd in our lives.

  1. Guidance: Just as a shepherd leads his sheep to green pastures and still waters, the Lord leads us in the paths of righteousness. His guidance is perfect, and He knows the way that is best for us. Sometimes, life can feel uncertain and confusing, but we can take comfort in knowing that the Lord is leading us every step of the way.
  2. Protection: Shepherds protected their sheep from danger, whether it was from wild animals or treacherous terrain. Similarly, the Lord is our protector. He shields us from the spiritual and emotional dangers that threaten us. Even in the face of life’s challenges, we need not fear, for He is with us.
  3. Provision: “I shall not want.” The Lord, our Shepherd, provides for our every need. Just as a shepherd ensures that his flock lacks nothing, God supplies us with all that is necessary for our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. We can trust in His abundant provision.

In our daily lives, it is easy to become anxious about our needs and uncertainties. However, Psalm 23:1 reminds us to shift our focus from our worries to our Shepherd. We can find comfort and security in the fact that the Lord is our guide, protector, and provider.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being my Shepherd. Help me to shift my focus from worrying and place my full trust in You. Give me peace and comfort knowing You are my Guide, Protector, and Provider. In Jesus’ name, amen.