Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: christ

Devotional For September 10, 2023

Encouragement

Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭28‬

The apostle Paul states a profound insight into our role as believers in Christ: helping others mature in their faith. This verse challenges us to reflect on our actions and consider what we are doing to assist others on their spiritual journey.

The foundation of helping others mature in their faith is simply proclaiming Jesus Christ. Our words and actions should consistently point to Him as the source of salvation, hope, and transformation. We share the Good News of Christ’s love and sacrifice. Do your words and actions point others to Jesus and help establish their foundation of faith?

Paul emphasizes in this verse two essential aspects of helping others grow in faith: warning and teaching. We have a responsibility not only to share the Gospel but also to guide and instruct others in all wisdom. This includes providing counsel, offering encouragement, and helping them navigate the challenges of the Christian journey.

Our ultimate goal is to present every person “perfect in Christ Jesus.” This doesn’t mean flawless perfection but rather maturity and completeness in their relationship with Christ. We aim to help others grow spiritually, becoming more like Jesus in character and faith.

What are you doing to help your family, neighbors and friends mature in their faith? Reflect on your interactions and whether you are actively preaching Christ, warning, and teaching in wisdom.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the privilege of sharing the Gospel and helping others grow in faith. Help me to be diligent in proclaiming Christ, offering both warning and teaching. Help my efforts contribute to presenting every person mature in Christ Jesus. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 8, 2023

Encouragement

You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
‭‭II Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬

The Apostle Paul wrote to instruct and encourage Timothy, his beloved disciple and fellow laborer in the ministry. The letter was short, yet powerful. His message was one of encouragement, empowerment, and a reminder of the divine source of strength.

Paul’s words begin with a tender address, emphasizing the close relationship they share as co-workers in Christ. It’s a reminder that we are not alone in our journey of faith; we have a spiritual family to support and uplift us.

Paul directed Timothy to find his strength not in his own abilities but in God’s grace. Grace is God’s undeserved favor. We are called to rely on God’s grace for everything we do, knowing that in our weakness, His grace is more than sufficient.

The source of this grace is found in Christ Jesus. He is the source of all our spiritual blessings and the example of perfect strength in weakness. By remaining connected to Him through prayer, Scripture, and a deepening relationship, we can access the abundant grace available to us.

As Christians, we are called to be strong, not in our own might, but in the immeasurable grace that flows from our Savior. When we face trials, temptations, or moments of weakness, we can turn to Jesus, confident that His grace will carry us through.

So, today, draw strength from the well of God’s grace, understanding that it is sufficient for every challenge you will face. As you do so, you will find the endurance and empowerment needed to walk faithfully in the footsteps of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, I come before Your throne of grace, humbly asking for strength and endurance. No matter what I face today, I know You stand with me. Fill me with Your strength. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For September 7, 2023

Encouragement

Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord,
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3‬:‭19‬

Repentance is the act of turning away from sin and a turning toward God. There are incredible blessings that flow from genuine repentance. Let’s consider the blessings of having a repentant heart.

First of all, repentance begins with recognizing our need for it. It’s acknowledging our shortcomings, mistakes, and sins. It’s understanding that our hearts require cleansing and renewal. Only Jesus can renew and cleanse us from our sins.

Once we repent we can be converted. Conversion is a beautiful process of turning away from our old ways and embracing a new life in Christ. It’s a transformation that impacts our thoughts, actions, and character.

Through repentance and conversion, God graciously blots out our sins. They are forgiven and remembered no more. The burden of guilt is lifted, and we experience the liberating power of God’s grace.

The verse promises that times of refreshing come from the presence of the Lord. Repentance brings spiritual renewal and rejuvenation. It’s like a breath of fresh air for our souls. There is nothing like being set free from your sin and shame.

Have you repented of your sins? True repentance guides us to a life where we are always aware of our sins and always ready to stop sinning. Only Jesus can give us the power to turn away from sin.

Pray

Lord, I come before You in repentance, acknowledging my need for Your forgiveness and renewal. Thank You for the promise of conversion and blotting out my sins. Let me experience the refreshment that come from Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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