Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For June 25, 2024

But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭7‬

In the fast-paced and often chaotic world we live in, it’s easy to feel insignificant or overlooked. We may wonder if anyone truly cares about the details and events of our lives. In Luke 12:7, Jesus reminds us that our Heavenly Father knows us intimately and values us beyond measure.

Consider the profound truth that Jesus shares here: “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” This statement goes far beyond a mere count of hairs. It signifies God’s intimate knowledge of every detail of our existence. He knows the thoughts that race through our minds, the desires of our hearts, and the struggles we face daily.

The verse continues with a message of reassurance: “Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” Jesus points to the value God places on each of us. If God cares for the sparrows, which are common and seemingly insignificant birds, how much more does He care for you, a creation made in His own image?

This truth should fill us with awe and gratitude. We are not alone in this world; we are not forgotten. God’s love for us is immeasurable, and His attention to the details of our lives is unwavering.

In moments of doubt or when facing life’s challenges, remember Luke 12:7. Let it be a source of comfort and strength. You are precious to God, and He knows you better than anyone else ever could. Trust in His love and care for you, and let go of fear and insecurity. You are valued beyond measure in the eyes of your Heavenly Father.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your love and mercy. I trust in You and will not fear what I cannot change. You alone are worthy to be praised. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For June 24, 2024

You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men.
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭7‬:‭23‬

Before you were saved, you were held captive, bound by chains of sin and separated from God’s grace. You were enslaved to your own desires, living a life of spiritual poverty. But then, the Savior came and redeemed you. 

Jesus Christ paid the ultimate price on the cross to redeem you, to purchase your freedom with His own blood. You were bought with the price of Christ’s sacrifice, and in that transaction, you were set free. 

You are no longer bound by the chains of sin and death. You are no longer enslaved to the world’s expectations or the demands of others. You belong to Christ, and in Him, you find true freedom.

However, as Paul reminds us, this freedom comes with a responsibility: “do not become slaves of men.” While we have been set free from sin, we must be cautious not to exchange one form of slavery for another. It’s easy to become entangled in the expectations and opinions of others, allowing their judgments and demands to dictate our actions and decisions.

Instead, we are called to live as free individuals in Christ. This means making choices that align with God’s will, not out of compulsion or fear of what others may think, but out of a deep love for our Savior and a desire to honor Him.

As you go about your day, remember the price that was paid for your freedom. Live in the liberty of Christ, making choices that reflect your identity as a child of God. Seek His guidance in all things, and do not allow the expectations or judgments of others to enslave you once again.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the incredible price You paid to set me free from sin and bondage. Help me to live in the freedom that You provided. Give me the strength to resist the pressures and expectations of the world and to make choices that honor You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For June 23, 2024

The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in From this time forth, and even forevermore.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭121‬:‭8‬ 

Have you ever felt like you were dealing with a situation or crisis all alone? There are times when we may feel like God has left us or even abandoned us, but He hasn’t. His presence is with us every step of the way.

Today’s verse encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the moment we step out into the world to the time we return home, God’s watchful eye is upon us. He cares about our safety, our well-being, and our spiritual growth.

The promise of preservation isn’t limited to a particular season, situation or circumstance. It extends “from this time forth, and even forevermore.” God’s love and protection are eternal. He doesn’t just watch over us today or in times of trouble, but His care endures for all eternity.

Remember today that you are not alone. God is with you in every step, guiding, guarding, and preserving you. When you face challenges, find peace in His presence. When you achieve success, give thanks for His continued watch over you. Let this verse be a source of encouragement and a reminder that you are cherished by the God who watches over you now and forevermore.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your constant watchful care. Help me to trust in Your unfailing love and protection, knowing that You preserve my every step, today and for all eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.