Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For November 9, 2023

Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see death.
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭51‬

Jesus spent over 3 years teaching His disciples what it means to be a Christian. What Jesus says in today’s verse isn’t just a glimpse into the afterlife but a blueprint for daily living. It challenges us to embrace His teachings, allowing them to shape our thoughts, words, and actions.

Keeping His word means more than mere compliance; it’s a call to adopt the nature of love, kindness, and humility. As we navigate the challenges of life, the teachings of Christ should guide our decisions and give us a heavenly perspective of life.

In our daily routines, we are are encouraged to be intentional about keeping His word alive in our hearts. It’s a commitment that transforms ordinary moments into opportunities for grace and understanding.

Today, let’s live in the assurance that keeping His word is a pathway to a life that extends beyond the boundaries of time and into the eternity of His love.

Pray

Lord, grant me the strength to uphold Your Word in my daily walk. Help me to internalize Your teachings, that through obedience, I may experience the profound truth of everlasting life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 8, 2023

Oh, that my ways were directed To keep Your statutes!
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭5‬

This verse is a reminder that our true delight is found in following the path God has set before us.

In a world full of distractions and temptations, it’s easy to stray from the righteous path. In moments of weakness we can be led astray. The psalmist’s expresses a deep yearning to remain steadfast in obedience so that we don’t get off path.

The desire to follow God’s way is a powerful mindset. When we make a conscious effort to align our lives with God’s will, we find a profound sense of purpose and contentment.

What path do you see yourself on today? Are you being guided by the Spirit of God?

If you find yourself off track or going down the wrong path, make a u-turn today. Allow God to guide your steps and put you back where you belong.

Pray

Lord, I long to be steadfast in obeying Your decrees and to live according to Your wisdom. Strengthen me to remain obedient to Your commandments. Help me to seek Your will and way for my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 7, 2023

Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,
‭‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭1

Jesus shared a parable (an earthly story with a heavenly meaning) to teach about the importance of persistent prayer. This verse reminds us that, in the midst of our challenges, we should remain steadfast in our commitment to prayer.

Life often presents us with difficulties, obstacles, and moments of despair. In those times, it’s easy to become discouraged and lose hope. But Jesus encourages us to do the opposite – to persist in prayer. Why? Because prayer is not just a means to an end; it’s a way to draw near to God, to find peace in His presence, and to align our hearts with His will.

Jesus desires that we continually seek Him in prayer and never give up. When our life is persistently seeking the Lord, we will be blessed with guidance, encouragement and peace. Are you diligently seeking the Lord in prayer?

Pray

Lord, thank You for teaching me to always pray and to never give up. Help me to be committed to prayer and to seek You for all things. Give me comfort and peace knowing You answer my prayers and provide only the best. In Jesus’ name, amen.