Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For October 18, 2024

Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭58‬

Jesus reveals to us a profound truth about His identity. He doesn’t just claim to be older than Abraham; He declares His divinity with the words “I AM.” This phrase harkens back to God’s revelation of Himself to Moses at the burning bush in Exodus 3:14. It’s a declaration of eternality and deity.

As we reflect on this truth, we are reminded of the timeless nature of Christ, the “I AM.” He existed before Abraham, before time itself, and He continues to exist as the eternal God.

In our own lives, we often face situations that seem insurmountable, challenges that test our faith, and uncertainties that weigh heavily on our hearts. In those moments, we can find peace in knowing that the great “I AM” is with us. Jesus, who is before all things, is by our side, offering His guidance, comfort, and strength.

When we face our doubt and fears, we can trust in Jesus to give us what we need to endure all things. He is unchanging and eternal. 

Pray

Lord, thank You for the assurance of Your presence in my life. Grant me strength to trust in You, the great “I AM,” and to find refuge in Your everlasting love. I pray for wisdom to follow Your teachings and the courage to live out Your example in my daily walk. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

Devotional For October 17, 2024

Say to those who are fearful-hearted, “Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, With the recompense of God; He will come and save you.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭35‬:‭4‬

The world can be a frightful place, and it’s easy to become “fearful-hearted.” But in Isaiah 35:4, we are reminded of a powerful message of hope and reassurance from God.

First, we are encouraged to “be strong” and not to give in to fear. This strength doesn’t come from our own abilities, but from the divine source of strength – God Himself. It is a call to trust in His power and promises.

The verse goes on to proclaim that God will come with vengeance and recompense. This is a reminder that justice ultimately belongs to Him, and He will set things right. The injustices we see in the world will not go unnoticed or unpunished.

Most importantly, the verse concludes with the beautiful promise that the Lord will come and save us. No matter how dire our circumstances may appear, God is our ultimate savior. He is with us in our trials, and His salvation is our ultimate hope.

Let this verse be a source of strength and a reminder of God’s unwavering love and commitment to His people. We can take refuge in His promise to save us, knowing that we are never alone in our journey. So, be strong, do not fear, and trust in the God who is our Savior and Redeemer.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being my Savior and Redeemer. Give me strength and courage to overcome any fear I may face today. I trust Your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

Devotional For October 16, 2024

The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, “You see that you are accomplishing nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him!”
‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭19‬

After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, many people started following Jesus. In response, the Pharisees were frustrated because of the increasing popularity of Jesus. They said, “the world has gone after Him.” This statement, though made by the Pharisees with a sense of alarm, holds a profound truth about the impact of Jesus on the world.

This truth reminds us of the powerful draw that Jesus has. His teachings of love, grace, and salvation have an appeal that goes beyond cultural, geographical, and societal boundaries. People from all backgrounds and walks of life are drawn to His transformative power and message of hope.

What is your response to Jesus? Are you drawn to His teachings, recognizing that He is the answer to our deepest longings? Do you follow Him and share His love with the world around us? 

Jesus’s influence continues to be felt across the globe, and we are called to be part of the world that follows Him.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the profound impact You have on the world. Help me to draw closer to You and share the wonderful message of love and hope with others. Empower me to live out Your example of love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.