Pastor Stephen Dedman

Tag: christ

Devotional For November 22, 2023

Encouragement

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?
‭‭I Thessalonians‬ ‭2‬:‭19‬

As followers of Christ, our lives are intertwined with the lives of those we influence. Paul cherished the Thessalonian believers as his hope and joy, recognizing that their spiritual journey was not merely an individual pursuit. In the same way, our faithfulness can become a source of joy for others and a testament to God’s transformative power.

Consider the three facets Paul mentions: hope, joy, and crown of rejoicing:

  1. Hope: Our hope is not just a distant wish; it is a living expectation anchored in Christ. The hope Paul speaks of here is the anticipation of sharing eternity with fellow believers. Our lives, lived in faith, contribute to this shared hope.
  2. Joy: The joy Paul experiences is not based on circumstances but on the spiritual well-being of those he has influenced. As we invest in the spiritual growth of others, their flourishing becomes a source of enduring joy.
  3. Crown of Rejoicing: Picture a victor’s crown bestowed upon faithful athletes. In a similar way, our crown of rejoicing is the culmination of a life dedicated to Christ and the joy found in the spiritual victories of those we’ve guided in their faith.

Whose spiritual journey are you influencing? Let us live with the anticipation that our faithful living will lead to eternal rejoicing in the presence of our Lord.

Pray

Lord, help me to be mindful of the influence my words and actions have on those around us. Let my hope in You be a beacon of light for others, drawing them closer to the warmth of Your love. Fill me with a joy that surpasses circumstances, a joy rooted in the transformative power of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 21, 2023

Encouragement

For our God is a consuming fire.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭29‬

In the context of this verse, the unknown author is emphasizing the awe-inspiring nature of God, highlighting His holiness and power. We must approach our relationship with Him with reverence and humility.

The reality of God being a consuming fire should transform our perspective. Fire refines and removes any impurities that don’t belong. His refining fire can purify your heart and refine your character. Sometimes we need to be cleansed and made new again.

Just as fire consumes, let God’s presence consume any distractions, doubts, or sin in your life. Come before the throne of God with awe and reverence. Let God do His mighty work in you today.

Pray

Lord, I come before You acknowledging Your consuming fire. May Your holiness ignite a passion for righteousness within me. Burn away anything in my life that hinders my walk with You. Help me to approach You with reverence and awe. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 20, 2023

Encouragement

For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭7‬:‭15‬

These words can relate to the internal struggle that we all face—the tension between our intentions and our actions.

Paul’s wants us to acknowledge our own human frailty, the moments when our desire for righteous living collides with the reality of our shortcomings. We constantly find ourselves wrestling with the same internal conflicts, recognizing the gap between our desire to do good and the stumbling blocks we encounter.

But within this honest admission, there is a profound revelation of grace. Paul’s acknowledgment of his struggle doesn’t lead to despair but lays the groundwork for God’s mercy to intervene. In recognizing our flaws, we open ourselves to the redemptive work of Christ, who meets us in our imperfections.

As we navigate the complexities of living out our faith, let Romans 7:15 serve as a reminder that our journey is marked by both aspiration and imperfection. It’s an invitation to extend grace to ourselves and others, understanding that the transformative journey of sanctification is a process.

The question we need to ask ourselves is, “Are we allowing the power of God to control our lives?” God wants to reveal Himself in such a way that we cannot live life without Him. We may have good intentions, but we need the God to work on our behalf.

Pray

Lord, I come acknowledging the tension within my heart, the struggle to do what is right and the reality of my actions. I confess the need for Your mercy and grace. Thank you for understanding my frailty and giving me redemption. May Your power continue in my life as I walk in this journey of faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.