Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: bible

Devotional For July 18, 2023

Encouragement

Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬

James reminds us that as believers, we are called to live in holiness. We are called to get rid of the sinful habits and behaviors that could hinder our spiritual growth. It requires a conscious decision to remove anything that separates us from God’s presence.

The word of God has the power to transform our lives from the inside out. When we apply ourselves to God’s word with humility and a teachable spirit, the word takes root in our hearts and produces righteousness. The word is not just informative; it is a living, active force that brings about spiritual change.

The word of God rescues us from the bondage of sin, and reconciles us with God. It guides us on the path of righteousness and leads us to eternal life. As we open our hearts to God’s word, we position ourselves to receive His grace and experience the power of His truth.

John 1:14 says, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” When you lay aside sinful things and embrace the word of God, you will experience the presence of God in a supernatural way.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your word that has transformed my life. Help me to lay aside anything that separates me from experiencing Your presence. Please forgive me of my sins. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 15, 2023

Encouragement

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬

What does it mean for us to say, “To live is Christ”? It means that our lives are no longer driven by selfish ambition, worldly success, or temporary pleasures. Instead, our lives are characterized by a passionate pursuit of Christ and a desire to align ourselves with His will. “To live is Christ” means we find our purpose, joy, and fulfillment in Him alone.

Paul’s declaration, “For to me, to live is Christ,” reveals his unwavering commitment to Christ as the very essence and purpose of his existence. Paul had encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus, and from that moment, his life was radically changed. He abandoned his former way of life and pursued an intimate relationship with Jesus. Every aspect of Paul’s being—his thoughts, actions, and desires—were now directed towards the person of Christ.

Paul does not stop there. He continues, “and to die is gain.” This phrase may seem counterintuitive at first, as death is often viewed with fear and uncertainty. However, for a believer, death holds a different significance. It is not the end but the beginning. It is a gain because it marks our ultimate victory over sin and suffering.

Paul’s perspective on life and death challenges us to evaluate our priorities and prioritize our hearts towards what truly matters. The pursuits and possessions of this world pale in comparison to the immeasurable worth of Christ. When we grasp the profound truth that to live is Christ and to die is gain, it changes the way we approach every aspect of our lives.

Are you wholly devoted to Christ? Do you seek to live for Him in every circumstance? As we live for Christ, may we find comfort in the assurance that even death cannot separate us from His love and the eternal inheritance that awaits us.

Pray

Lord, help me to be a living testimony to the truth that to live is Christ. Teach me to surrender my desires, ambitions, and fears to You, and enable me to walk in step with Your Spirit each day. Help me to find joy and purpose. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For July 14, 2023

Encouragement

Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭38‬

Jesus taught His followers the importance of giving. It is a powerful reminder that the act of giving opens up the floodgates of blessings. Jesus isn’t just referring to material possessions; He is talking about a generous and compassionate attitude towards others.

As followers of Christ, we are called to give, whether it’s our time, resources, or talents. The beauty of this spiritual discipline lies not only in what we give, but also in what we receive.

Jesus promises that when we give, it will be given back to us in good measure. Our heavenly Father delights in blessing His children, and He uses the act of giving as a conduit for blessing us.

It’s important to note that the measure we use in giving determines the measure of blessings we will receive. If we give sparingly, we limit the flow of blessings into our lives. But if we give with a cheerful heart, with a spirit of abundance and generosity, we position ourselves to receive an abundance.

This teaching extends beyond material possessions. When we give forgiveness, we receive forgiveness in return. When we show kindness, we experience kindness from others. When we offer love, we are embraced with love. It’s a divine economy where the more we give, the more we receive.

What measure do you use in giving? Are you giving out of obligation or with a joyful heart? Are you holding back or sowing generously? Challenge yourself to adopt a spirit of generosity, knowing that as you give, God will faithfully pour blessings into your life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your love and always providing for me. Teach me to be generous. Open my eyes to opportunities where I can sow seeds of kindness and generosity. In Jesus’ name, amen.