Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: christ

Devotional For October 26, 2023

Encouragement

So God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us,
‭‭Acts‬ ‭15‬:‭8‬

In the book of Acts, we find a profound truth that should bring comfort and assurance to our hearts: God’s perfect plan has always been in motion. Acts 15:18 reminds us that God has known all His works from eternity. This means that every event, every twist and turn in our lives, and the entire course of human history are within His divine knowledge and control.

Often, we may question why certain things happen, or we may struggle with uncertainty about the future. In these moments, Acts 15:18 serves as a reminder that God’s understanding is far beyond our own. He has seen all things in existence from beginning to end, and every part, no matter how seemingly insignificant, plays a part in His masterful design.

As we reflect on this verse, it’s an invitation to trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty. Even when we cannot comprehend the reasons behind our circumstances, we can rest assured that God’s plan is unfolding perfectly. Our role is to have faith, to seek His guidance, and to align our lives with His purposes.

So, take a moment to pray and surrender your worries, doubts, and uncertainties to the One who knows the end from the beginning. Trust that God’s plan is far greater than anything we can fathom, and His ways are always perfect. May this truth bring you peace and confidence in your journey of faith.

Pray

Lord, in times of uncertainty and when I cannot see the full picture, help me to trust in Your sovereignty. I surrender my worries and doubts to You, knowing that You know all things from eternity. Thank you for being a God who holds the future and for loving me unconditionally. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 24, 2023

Encouragement

Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭58‬

Jesus reveals to us a profound truth about His identity. He doesn’t just claim to be older than Abraham; He declares His divinity with the words “I AM.” This phrase harkens back to God’s revelation of Himself to Moses at the burning bush in Exodus 3:14. It’s a declaration of eternality and deity.

As we reflect on this truth, we are reminded of the timeless nature of Christ, the “I AM.” He existed before Abraham, before time itself, and He continues to exist as the eternal God.

In our own lives, we often face situations that seem insurmountable, challenges that test our faith, and uncertainties that weigh heavily on our hearts. In those moments, we can find peace in knowing that the great “I AM” is with us. Jesus, who is before all things, is by our side, offering His guidance, comfort, and strength.

When we face our doubt and fears, we can trust in Jesus to give us what we need to endure all things. He is unchanging and eternal.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the assurance of Your presence in my life. Grant me strength to trust in You, the great “I AM,” and to find refuge in Your everlasting love. I pray for wisdom to follow Your teachings and the courage to live out Your example in my daily walk. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 21, 2023

Encouragement

Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.”
‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭14‬

John 6:14 is a response of the people who witnessed one of the many miracles performed by Jesus. They recognized that Jesus had an extraordinary nature.

The miracle these people saw was the feeding of the five thousand, where Jesus multiplied a few loaves of bread and fish to feed a multitude. While they saw a physical manifestation of God’s power, it points to a profound spiritual reality. Just as Jesus provided physical bread to satisfy their hunger, He is also the spiritual Bread that satisfies the deepest longings of our hearts.

The recognition of Jesus as the “Prophet who is to come into the world” reminds us that He alone can satisfy our spiritual hunger.

As you go about your day, consider the hunger within your own heart. Are you seeking to fill it with things that ultimately leave you empty, or are you turning to the true Bread of Life, Jesus Christ? His presence in your life can bring a profound sense of fulfillment, purpose, and eternal satisfaction.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being the Bread of Life. Help me to recognize You as the source of true fulfillment and satisfaction. May I turn to You to satisfy the deepest longings of my heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.