Pastor Stephen Dedman

Devotional For September 2, 2024

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬-‭21

Living as citizens of heaven in a fallen world can sometimes be a challenge. We are constantly faced with temptations and distractions that attempt to sway us away from our true identity and purpose. However, our hope lies in the glorious promise of Christ’s return.

The anticipation of Christ’s return should impact the way we live. It should motivate us to live in a manner that reflects the character and nature of our heavenly citizenship. Our lives should testify to the transforming power of the Gospel and demonstrate a life that is surrendered to Jesus.

Our earthly bodies, which are subject to decay, will one day be transformed to be like Christ’s glorious, resurrected body. This truth gives us great comfort. The issues we face in our mortal bodies are just temporary. The day is coming when we will experience a perfect condition.

As you endure the ups and downs of life, continue to fix your eyes on Jesus, the author, and finisher of our faith. Just know that we belong to something greater—a kingdom that will never fade away. 

Seek to honor God in all that you do. And share the hope we have in Christ with those who need to experience the joy and peace we experience. Let your life be a reflection of the glory of God. 

Pray

Lord, thank You for blessing me with the privilege of being a citizen of heaven. Help me to have an eternal perspective, watching for Your return. Strengthen my faith, as I strive to please You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For September 1, 2024

Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭60‬:‭1‬

Isaiah 60:1 is a verse filled with hope. In the midst of living in a dark world, the glory of the Lord is shining upon us. It carries a message that no matter what happens, God’s presence is with us.

“Arise” is a call to action. It encourages us to lift ourselves from doubt, fear, or complacency. It urges us to wake up from a spiritual slumber and embrace the new day that God has provided.

“Shine” is a reminder of our purpose. As God’s children, we are called to be the light of Jesus to the world, reflecting His love, grace, and truth. When we shine, we illuminate the darkness around us and help others find their way to God.

“And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you” signifies the divine favor and blessing that God bestows upon those who seek Him. When His glory rests upon us, we are empowered to live with purpose, grace, and a deep sense of His presence.

As a child of God, you are called to arise and shine. Let your life be a reflection of God’s light and glory. In times of challenge, look to the risen light of Christ for guidance, strength, and hope. Embrace the promise of His presence.

Pray

Lord, thank You for entrusting me to shine Your light in this dark world. Help me to heed the call to arise and shine. Fill me with Your presence and empower me to be a glimpse of hope to those around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For August 31, 2024

Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,
‭‭II Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬

The apostle Paul’s prayer in 2 Thessalonians 1:11 expresses a deep desire that God would count us worthy of the divine calling placed upon our lives. 

This prayer unveils a profound truth — that our calling is not a random occurrence, but a purposeful design crafted by God Himself. As we navigate the twists and turns of life, Paul’s prayer encourages us to seek worthiness in our response to this divine calling.

God’s goodness plays a pivotal role in this journey. It is His goodness that propels us forward, guiding us along the path of righteousness. The fulfillment of God’s good pleasure is closely connected to the work of faith. As we exercise faith in Him, His power is unleashed, enabling us to live out the calling with strength and purpose.

Today, let us embrace this prayer as our own, seeking worthiness in our response to God’s calling. May His goodness guide our steps, and may the work of faith in our lives be accompanied by His mighty power. As we align ourselves with His purpose, we discover the true fulfillment that comes from living out our calling with God’s divine strength.

Pray

Lord, help me to embrace Your goodness in my life. Thank You for loving me and guiding me by Your power. Give me wisdom to fully understand the plans You have for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.