Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For December 16, 2024

My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭1‬:‭10‬

The book of Proverbs, written by King Solomon, is filled with practical wisdom for living a life that honors God. In the opening chapter, Solomon addresses his son, urging him to embrace wisdom and reject the influences of the wicked. Proverbs 1:10 serves as a critical warning against yielding to the enticements of sinners.

In today’s world, we are surrounded by influences that encourage us to compromise our values, whether through peer pressure, media, or cultural trends. Temptation often whispers, “Everyone is doing it,” or, “It’s no big deal.” But as believers, we are called to stand firm, resisting the pull to follow a path that leads away from God.

If you stay rooted in God’s Word, you will equip yourself to recognize and resist temptation. When God’s Word is your foundation, you are less likely to be swayed by sinful enticements.

The people you surround yourself with have a significant influence on your decisions. Proverbs 13:20 advises, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” Seek friendships that encourage godliness and hold you accountable.

Is there an area in your life where you feel tempted to follow the wrong crowd or make compromises? Ask God for wisdom and strength to resist. Remember, saying “no” to temptation is saying “yes” to God’s perfect plan for your life.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. Help me to stand firm when temptation comes, and give me the courage to say no to sin. Surround me with godly influences and fill me with Your Spirit so I can walk in Your ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotion For December 15, 2024

For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭38‬-‭39‬

Paul listed a series of potential obstacles and challenges—death, life, angels, principalities, powers, present circumstances, future uncertainties, height, depth, and any other created thing—and declared that none of them have the power to separate us from God’s love.

This assurance of God’s unshakeable love provides comfort and security to believers in every season of life. In times of trial and tribulation, we can take refuge in the knowledge that God’s love for us remains constant and unwavering.

The love of God transcends all human understanding and surpasses all earthly bounds. It is a love that knows no limits and reaches to the deepest depths and highest heights. It is a love that extends beyond time and space.

Take a moment to reflect on the unbreakable love of God as expressed in Romans 8:38-39. Allow the truth of these verses to penetrate your heart and fill you with confidence and peace. And may you be strengthened and encouraged to live boldly and confidently in the love of Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the unbreakable love. Help me to grasp the depth and breadth of Your love, and to live each day in the assurance of Your unfailing faithfulness. May Your love be my anchor in the storms of life, and may it empower me to live as bold witnesses of Your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For December 14, 2024

Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous! For praise from the upright is beautiful.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭33‬:‭1

Psalm 33 is a song of praise, celebrating God’s sovereignty, creativity, and faithfulness. The psalmist begins by calling the righteous to rejoice in the Lord, emphasizing that praise is both fitting and beautiful when offered by those who walk in God’s ways.

In ancient Israel, praising God wasn’t just an expression of gratitude but a declaration of trusting His faithfulness. The beauty of the upright’s praise lies in its authenticity—it flows from a heart aligned with God.

As followers of Christ, our lives should be full of joy that reflects the goodness of God. This verse reminds us that praise isn’t just an action—it’s a lifestyle. It flows from knowing who God is and recognizing His hand in every season of life.

The psalmist describes praise as “beautiful.” Why? Because it glorifies God and transforms us. When we praise, we shift our focus from ourselves and our circumstances to the One who holds all things in His hands. Even in trials, when we choose to rejoice, our praise becomes a powerful witness of God’s sustaining grace.

How much do you praise the Lord? Every prayer should be full of praise. Every conversation with others should include praise to God. Every thought we have should be praiseworthy!

Pray

Lord, thank You for being my source of joy and hope. Help me to praise You in all circumstances, knowing that my worship brings You glory and transforms my heart. Teach me to live a life that radiates Your beauty to the world around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.