Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For June 28, 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 didn’t claim to be older than Abraham; He declared 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 biggest doubt and fears, we can trust in Jesus to give us what we need to endure all things. He is unchanging and eternal. Let the great “I AM” guide your thoughts and actions today.

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 June 27, 2024

But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭9‬:‭11‬

Hebrews 9:11 paints a picture of Jesus as our High Priest. In the Old Testament, the high priest held the honor and responsibility of entering the Most Holy Place of the temple to make atonement for the sins of the people. However, Jesus is described as the High Priest of the “good things to come,” and His tabernacle is “greater and more perfect.”

This verse is a reminder of the extraordinary nature of Christ’s priesthood. He doesn’t enter an earthly sanctuary but the heavenly one, not made by human hands. His work is not confined to temporary rituals but secures eternal salvation for those who believe in Him. In Christ, we have a High Priest who mediates for us before God, ensuring that the “good things to come” are ours to inherit.

We should be grateful for the perfect High Priest we have in Jesus. He has accomplished what no other high priest could—eternal redemption. We can approach God with confidence, knowing that Christ’s work is complete, and we are welcomed into the presence of God. May this truth fill us with hope and assurance as we live out our faith in Him.

We are blessed that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is our atonement for our sins. We are forgiven and made righteous before God. Thank the Lord we are forgiven!

Pray

Lord, thank You for being the perfect High Priest and entering the heavenly tabernacle to secure my eternity. Help me to grasp the significance of this wonderful work. Give me confidence and assurance as I anticipate the “good things to come” that You have promised. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For June 26, 2024

And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God:
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭2‬

Obedience to God’s voice is the key to unlocking the blessings that overflow and overtake our lives. God desires to bless His children for their continued obedience. It is out of the goodness of His heart that He shows us what great things He can do. 

Imagine blessings that don’t just trickle in but flow forth in abundance. God’s promise in Deuteronomy 28:2 is that His blessings will not only come upon you but overtake you. He doesn’t hold back; His desire is to lavish His goodness upon us. 

There is a connection between obedience and blessings. When we align our lives with God’s commands and listen to His voice, we position ourselves to receive the blessings He has prepared for us. Obedience reflects our trust in His plans.

The many types of blessings mentioned in Deuteronomy 28 include physical, material, and spiritual. These blessings give us a glimpse into the heart of a loving Father who desires to provide for His children in every aspect of their lives.

The idea of blessings overtaking us highlights God’s initiative in showering us with His grace. As we walk in obedience, blessings chase after us. It’s a beautiful reminder that God’s favor is not contingent on our efforts alone but on His boundless love.

Can you say that you are blessed with the goodness of God? Are there areas where obedience to God’s voice can bring about His blessings in greater measure? Consider how aligning with His will can lead to an overflow of blessings.

Pray

Lord, I’m grateful for Your desire to bless me. Help me to listen to Your voice and obey Your commands. Help me walk in alignment with Your will and experience the overflow of blessings that come from living in Your ways. Thank You for Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.