Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: christ

Devotional For August 30, 2023

Encouragement

But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭14‬:‭10‬

In Luke 14, Jesus teaches us a valuable lesson about humility and exaltation. This verse invites us to reflect on our attitude towards recognition and honor, urging us to approach life with humility and a heart that seeks to honor others.

We live in a world that often values prestige and recognition, but Jesus encourages a different perspective. He advises us to choose the lowest place, demonstrating humility rather than seeking attention or prominence.

When we humble ourselves, God notices. He sees our heart’s posture and willingness to put others before ourselves. Just as the host at a banquet may invite someone to a higher seat, God exalts those who display genuine humility.

Choosing the lowest place requires contentment and a secure sense of self-worth. It’s a recognition that our value isn’t solely determined by our position or status but by our identity in Christ.

Choosing the lowest place is also an act of honoring others. It reflects a heart that values relationships over status and seeks to serve rather than to be served.

Are there any areas in your life where you can choose the lowest place? Are you demonstrating humility and honoring others in your interactions with others?

Pray

Lord, teach me the beauty of humility. Help me to choose the lowest place, recognizing that true value comes from my identity in You. May my actions reflect a heart that seeks to honor and serve others, as I trust in Your exaltation in due time. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For August 29, 2023

Encouragement

Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭7‬:‭25‬

There is such a beautiful truth in today’s verse that brings comfort and assurance to every believer’s heart. It reminds us that Jesus Christ, our Savior and High Priest, not only saved us but continues to intercede on our behalf. His intercession is a testament to His eternal love and care for His children.

As our Savior, Jesus accomplished the work of redemption on the cross, providing salvation for all who come to God through Him. As our Intercessor, He continues to stand before the Father on our behalf, representing us and advocating for us.

The assurance that Jesus is able to save us provides us with great comfort. His salvation isn’t limited by time, circumstances, or the depth of our sins. His grace reaches to the depth of our need, offering complete and everlasting salvation.

What a powerful statement—Jesus always lives to make intercession for us. His ministry of intercession isn’t occasional or sporadic; it’s constant and unending. His presence before the Father is a reminder that we are never alone, and His prayers on our behalf are always present.

The concept of intercession speaks to the oneness between the Son and the Father. Jesus, who knows us intimately, intercedes for us personally. His prayers are specific to our needs, fears, and aspirations.

Let this wonderful truth impact your perspective on your relationship with God through Jesus Christ. How can you lean into the comfort of His intercession in your daily life?

Pray

Lord, I’m grateful for the assurance that You always intercede for me. Thank You for Your unending love and care. Help me to draw closer to You, knowing that my prayers are heard by You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Devotional For August 22, 2023

Encouragement

Thus says the Lord: “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, Let not the mighty man glory in his might, Nor let the rich man glory in his riches;”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬

We live in a world that often esteems human wisdom, strength, and wealth. Jeremiah 9:23 invites us to examine our hearts and priorities, recognizing what truly matters in the eyes of the Lord.

It’s easy to find identity in the things that our society values—intellectual skills, physical strength, and material wealth. Yet, God’s perspective challenges us to consider whether these pursuits are worthy of our boast.

Human wisdom is limited and will quickly fade away in the face of life’s complexities. No matter how knowledgeable we may be, our understanding is still subject to limitations. True wisdom begins with acknowledging our need for God’s guidance and seeking His truth above all else.

Strength and power can deceive us into believing we are self-sufficient. However, our strength is vulnerable to weakness and can be humbled in a moment. The Lord invites us to lean on His strength, recognizing that our true security lies in Him.

Wealth provides comfort and security, yet it too can vanish like the wind. The pursuit of riches can blind us to the eternal treasures that come from a relationship with Christ. Our ultimate wealth is found in His presence and the inheritance we have in Christ.

True worth and value come from knowing and understanding God—the source of unwavering love, righteous judgment, and abounding grace.

Are there areas in your life where you’ve put your confidence in wisdom, strength, or wealth? Consider how you can redirect your focus towards boasting in the Lord and growing in your knowledge of Him.

Pray

Lord, help me align my priorities with Your perspective. Remind me that true wisdom, strength, and riches come from knowing and understanding You. Help me to grow in my relationship with You each day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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