Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For November 25, 2023

But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬

Peter begins by acknowledging that “the end of all things is at hand.” This serves as a wake-up call for believers. While the exact timing of the end is known only to God, Peter emphasizes the need to be ready. The awareness of the return of Christ should shape the way we live each day.

The call to be “serious and watchful in your prayers” underscores the importance of an active prayer life. In times of uncertainty, prayer becomes a lifeline connecting us to God’s guidance, strength, and peace. It is in prayer that we align our hearts with God’s will and seek His wisdom for the journey ahead.

Living with purpose means being intentional in our relationship with Christ. It involves prioritizing prayer, not as a ritual but as a genuine conversation with our Heavenly Father. As we face the challenges of life, let us be watchful in prayer, recognizing that God’s presence is our source of strength.

Consider the life of Jesus, who, in the face of overwhelming difficulties, sought the Father in constant prayer. In the garden of Gethsemane, He prayed earnestly, “Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Our prayers align us with God’s purposes and empower us to face whatever may come with confidence.

Pray

Dear Lord, thank you for the reminder that the end of all things is at hand. Help me to live with a sense of urgency, recognizing the importance of my relationship with you. May my prayers be serious and watchful, aligning my heart with your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 24, 2023

Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a one day event, it can be an ongoing attitude of rejoicing in the heart of every believer. Christians ought to be the most joyful people on the planet. We should be the most encouraged and the most encouraging people.

As we journey through life, we are to be filled with a joy that surpasses circumstances, a joy rooted not in fleeting moments, but in the eternal promises of God.

Our source of joy is a person – the God of hope. In His love, joy finds its truest expression. When life’s challenges threaten to steal our joy, we can turn to the promises of God, for in trusting Him, we become vessels for the overflow of joy and peace.

Are you rejoicing in the Lord today? Does your joy fill the room with the Light of Jesus? If not, God awaits the opportunity to fill your heart with joy the surpasses all understanding. Ask and you will receive.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being the source of joy and hope. As I journey through life, may Your joy continuously fill my heart. Grant me the wisdom to trust in Your promises, that I may overflow with hope by the power of your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 23, 2023

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭100‬:‭4‬

Happy Thanksgiving!

As we gather around the table with family and friends, let us reflect on what God has done with an attitude of gratitude. Our gratitude is not based on circumstances but on the character of our God. He deserves our praise because of who He is.

Psalm 100 reminds us to approach God with joy, worship, and thanksgiving. It calls us to recognize the Lord as our Creator and Shepherd, acknowledging our dependence on Him. In the midst of the busyness of life, it’s important to pause and reflect on His goodness, faithfulness, and enduring love.

May this Thanksgiving be a time of deep reflection, heartfelt gratitude, and joyful worship as we celebrate the goodness of our Lord who is worthy of all praise. May His love and faithfulness continue to guide us in the days to come.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for Your loving kindness and faithfulness. I thank You for the gift of family and friends. Open my eyes to the opportunities to share Your love and blessings with others. Thank You for the gift of salvation and eternal life. In Jesus’ name, amen.