Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For September 9, 2024

Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.
‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬

In this passage of Scripture, Jesus was preparing His disciples for His departure from this world. He promised to send the Helper, the Holy Spirit, who will be an ever-present source of strength, guidance, and comfort for all who believe.

Imagine what the disciples were thinking as they heard Jesus speak about leaving. They had walked with Him, witnessed countless miracles, and found joy being in His presence. Jesus assured them that His departure would not be a loss but a gain. It was to their advantage because, through His departure, the Helper would come.

Today, we have an advantage because the very presence of the Almighty abides within us. Through the Holy Spirit, we experience an intimate relationship with God. This promise is not limited to the disciples; it is a gift for all who call upon the name of Jesus.

In our moments of sorrow, we have the Holy Spirit with us as the Comforter, offering peace that surpasses all understanding. When we face uncertainty, we have the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth, giving us illumination, inspiration and revelation of the Word.

As we yield our lives to the Holy Spirit’s leading, He transforms our hearts, aligning our desires with God’s will. The Helper convicts us of sin, urging us to repent and walk in righteousness. He enables us to love sacrificially, forgive unconditionally, and serve others selflessly.

It is your choice to seek His guidance, trust His leading, and rely on His power. With the Holy Spirit, you can confidently face life’s challenges, knowing that you have the greatest advocate and companion in your journey of faith.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Help me to yield to His leading, that I may walk in Your truth. Empower me to love, serve, and forgive others with the same love and grace You have shown me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For September 8, 2024

Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach,
‭‭Mark‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬

Just as Jesus chose twelve ordinary men, He extends an invitation to each of us today. In the midst of our busy lives, responsibilities, and distractions, He calls us to spend time with Him daily. He desires to be our constant companion, guiding us, comforting us, and revealing the truths of His kingdom.

Being with Jesus allows us to witness firsthand His compassion for the broken, His wisdom in handling challenges, and His unwavering faith in God the Father. As we walk with Him, we learn invaluable lessons, not just for ourselves but also to share with others.

We have a special purpose as disciples of Christ. We are not called to walk alone or merely perform tasks in our own strength. We are called to be with Him, to abide in His love, and to allow His truth to shape every aspect of our lives.

Have you responded to Jesus’ invitation wholeheartedly? It is a privilege to be one of His followers.

Pray

Lord, thank You for calling me to be one of Your followers. Help me to embrace Your presence so that I will grow close to You. Give me the courage to follow You wholeheartedly. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

Devotional For September 7, 2024

Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭16‬:‭13‬

The Christian life requires vigilance. Just as a watchman would guard over a city, we are called to be alert and attentive to the spiritual battles around us. Watch against the snares of the devil, the distractions that can lead us astray, and the doubts that can weaken our faith. 

Faith is what anchors us in the storms of life. Faith is not just believing in God, but clinging to His promises, regardless of our circumstances. When trials come, stand firm in the faith you profess. Don’t be easily swayed by doubt and fear.

Fear is a common human emotion, but as believers, we have access to a courage that the Lord will see us through our circumstances. This courage is found in the assurance of God’s presence and power. Be bold in your faith, knowing that God goes before you and empowers you to face challenges with confidence.

Strength isn’t solely a physical attribute—it’s a spiritual quality that comes from relying on God’s strength. Our human weaknesses become opportunities for God’s strength to shine through. Depend on Him, and His power will sustain you even in moments of weakness.

Are there areas where you need to be more vigilant, more steadfast, braver, or stronger? Consider what may be testing your faith. Allow today’s verse to encourage you to stand strong in the face of adversity.

Pray

Lord, thank you for the wisdom found in Your Word. Help me to watch, to stand firm in my faith, to be brave, and to draw strength from You. May I never forget that I can face any challenge with Your presence and power by my side. In Jesus’ name, amen.